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Fiction

Chain Lightning

A short story about an old man, a young man, the checkout line, and small things that feel like justice.

Sand Dollar

Forty-five years in, Sherry’s life doesn’t amount to much. But then, she meets a pair of sisters almost twice her age who could redeem her. Except…

The Ballad of Sugar and Doo

Sugar worships Loretta Lynn, even named her dog after Loretta’s husband. She dreams of being the next big Nashville singing star. There’s just one problem: Sugar is almost completely deaf.

The Crooked Road

“I didn’t know whether to congratulate her or say I’m sorry. I didn’t recognize her at first.” A short story about separation, reunion, and the long, twisting path of a marriage.

What a Day That Will Be

Her granddaughter doesn’t understand her grandmother’s faith, but can’t question how it has sustained her and her family for many years. A short story by Lillian Howell.

Not Now

A short story about a North Carolina country woman who takes a bus into a better, brighter life — but one that lasts only for a day.

The Bell Tower

Fiction writer DC Diamondopolous with a short story about a Montgomery pastor who helps one his of flock back away from the edge of suicide.

That Wasn’t for Me

Erik Peters brings us a small piece of fiction about a small gesture — and how such gestures can mean so much.