Category Archives: Flash Fiction

“The Best Barista in a Time of Spiders Who are Addicted to the Rush of Caffeine” by Cate Covert I stopped by the coffee shop to grab a triple-shot espresso and unexpectedly found my new life’s calling. But wait, I’m … Continue reading →

“Sandcastles in a Clockwork Sea” by Helena O’Connor I remember the sandcastle days, floating in clear waters that were crystal blue and guilt free. The red ribbons you wore, tying your hair up in buns, made you look like a … Continue reading →

“Identification” by Tamlyn Dreaver The woman in front of me stepped up to the window. Her jacket had slipped, and I could see the faint line of a scar on her neck. The clerk behind the glass took his time, … Continue reading →

“Flight School” by Randall Andrews I survived for three weeks alone in the jungle wilds of a hostile nation—with a broken leg and no supplies—while being hunted by enemy soldiers. Consider that when I say this physical therapy is the … Continue reading →

“Upgrade” by Trey Dowell  Twenty-five years of renting cars had taught Hector Ramirez many things that were often true. A smile costs nothing. Service matters. The customer is always right. It had also taught him one thing that was always … Continue reading →

“Caveat Emptor” by John Haas “Let the buyer beware,” a hoarse voice croaked from behind. Richie spun, searching for the source. “H…hello?” He’d entered this shop—which he’d never noticed before even though he passed this way at least twice a … Continue reading →

“Thief of Souls” David A. Gray We ambushed the aliens as they took a boy’s soul in their Beijing game preserve. The hunters were focused on their prey, certain there were few humans on Earth still sentient, let alone capable of harming them. They … Continue reading →

“Birthday Card” by Jess Leigh Unrein Every girl lived in anticipation and fear of going to see The Oracle on her birthday. Some parents would take her when she could barely walk, shuffling her into the private receiving room with … Continue reading →

“Teeth of the Lion” by Jennifer Shelby “I’m half dandelion on my father’s side,” he told me, catching a sunbeam as it trickled through the forest and weaving it between his fingertips. I nodded and hoped he wouldn’t notice the … Continue reading →

  “The A to Z of First Contact” by Gareth D Jones   Advance planning. As a Captain of the Exploration Guild, a First Contact situation is almost inevitable at some point in your career. Plan now for how you … Continue reading →