Silent Spaces

A selection of speculative short stories on life, death, and change. 

1. Dig - A conversation between a gravedigger and a strange visitor to the cemetery. (April 30, 2019)

2. Wildmoore - An intellectual physician confronts memories of the past when he attempts to cure a young heiress who has come down with a mysterious illness. (May 31, 2019)

3. Letters - After the death of her mother, Eliza discovers more than junk when cleaning out the attic. (June 30, 2019)

4. Small Magic - Bee's grandmother feels a change in the wind. Soon, Bee does, too. (August 31, 2019)

Ghosts of Eagle Valley

Ask anyone in Eagle Valley, Virginia, and they’ll be happy to tell you the history of their little town. After all, it’s a fascinating story. Way back in the 1700s, some of the town’s bravest young men marched off to fight in the Revolutionary War. Later, Eagle Valley’s mill brought the American Dream right to their doorsteps. During the Civil War, families were split between staying loyal to Virginia or re-joining the Union. Even as recently as World War II, Eagle Valley locals fought for victory half a world away. The town of Eagle Valley is proud of its long history, and even more proud of the ancestors that built their town.

Of course, if you ask the ghosts that still haunt Eagle Valley’s streets, you just might hear another side of the story. In this four-story collection, the ghosts of Eagle Valley set the record straight. Every town has its secrets, and these skeletons are ready to come out of their closets.

Ghosts of Eagle Valley is the companion short story collection to Ellen Smith’s debut novel, Reluctant Cassandra. Available only on Channillo for Charity, proceeds from Ghosts of Eagle Valley will benefit the Alzheimer’s Association. 

A Touch of Noir

A Touch of Noir is a collection of short stories written in "noir" style, featuring immoral, desperate, and sinister characters set in the foggy, shadowy and hilly landscape of post-WWII San Francisco, as well as Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Manhattan, and Chicago.  The stories are primarily told in first person, using language typical of 1940s-1960s.

**Update: A Touch of Noir was released in paperback and ebook format on Amazon (+Kindle), Barnes and Noble (+Nook), iBooks, Kobo and Googleplay. Six new tales not available on Channillo are available in this version.

Extreme Esteem

Dive into a weekly awakening that rivals your morning coffee but lasts much longer. With Murray by your side, navigate transformative insights and hands-on advice each week, specifically designed to ignite your self-esteem and reveal the untapped powerhouse within you. Ready to uncover your best self?

Plunge into the hidden challenges of thriving in our hyper-processed world, armed with game-changing strategies, profound insights, and little-known secrets. Don't just survive—elevate your life to unparalleled heights with Extreme Esteem. Are you ready to unlock the extraordinary?

Can You Hear Me Now?

Can You Hear Me Now?

They call it The Rocket, this streetcar, but nothing could be further from the truth. It’s a slow boat, a barge on its way down the Limpopo, steamy in summer; in winter, gritty underfoot and rank with the smell of wet wool. On rainy days the windows blur and water from boots and umbrellas pools on the dirty floor.

On this long, long journey across the city I’m with you, though you don’t know me. You’re talking on your phone. About your mother, your date last night, what you want for dinner. Or maybe you’re talking about your next court date, your drug problem, your divorce. Your recent sexual enlightenment, the pain in your leg (or your heart) that won’t go away. Can you hear me now, you ask, when your phone cuts out for a second. You’re not talking to me.

But I hear you. I’m listening. Here are some of the stories you’ve told me.

The Last First Date

Beth Mulligan is single and kinda, maybe, possibly, ready to mingle. The recently divorced English teacher is all set to spend her summer relaxing and repairing her broken heart, but her friends and family have other plans. Her best friend Jen sets her up on one awkward blind date after another. Her well-meaning brother tries to hook her up with some of his friends. Even her dad suggests she sign up for a dating app.

As Beth spends the summer meeting and going out with new guys, her dates don’t always go as planned. In fact, most of the dates are awkward, comical, and downright disappointing. Still, once Beth gets back into the dating game, she’s hopeful that the next guy is the right guy and that their first date… will be her last first date.

Thirteen Moons

Thirteen Moons is a collection of short stories portraying a side of life that is at times inexplicable, and at times remains unspoken. Embracing the magic of everyday life, these stories show a world grounded in a reality healthily skewed by fantasy.

Bang to Begin.

Bang to Begin is a collection of short stories unrestricted by time, place or genre.

Each tale will be unique, themed only by their outsets and by subtle associations, spread finely throughout the series.

They may begin with a bang, but will they end with one too?

Unfixed Timelines

Secrets buried under the sands of Turkey, the murder of a small-town sheriff, zombies at Vicksburg, otherworldly entities recruiting at a high society ball, and a daring escape from pirates. Sometimes truth is stranger than fiction, and in these five stories, the two are blended into tales of alternate history. Short stories appear every other week, and essays on the historical events related to stories are posted in the intervening weeks.

2017 Short Story Contest Finalists

This is a monthly series featuring the finalists of our 2017 Channillo Short Story Contest. The stories will be released in random order as follows.

"Last Man to Die" by Rudy Koshar

"The Trail" by Melissa Algood

"Versions of You" by Joe Prosit (3rd Place)

"The County Fair" by Sasha Lauren (1st Place)

"Draw the Other One" by Adam Cook

"Presence" by Rudy Koshar

"The Wish" by Jae Mazer (2nd Place)

"Seconds" by Chance Webb

"Bacia" by Isabelle Reid

"Rum and Tears" by Simon A.C. Martin

"Reunion" by Melissa Algood

Stolen Moments

A series of short stories composed over the years, ranging from horror, to character studies, speculative fiction and a lot in between. ;-)

Channillo Holiday/Winter Series 2019

A collection of holiday or winter themed essays, poems, and stories by various authors.

The Art of Ascendance

Meditative collections of experience.

Heartbreak, healing, A new feeling.

It can be impeccably difficult to break the mold. This collection is my knowledge of perserverance through adversity using the means of creativity.

I love you.

You should love yourself too. 

Tortum: A Modernization of Old World Fables

Tales of the old world brought back to life. Tortum gathers a series of short stories that explore fables and legends from around the world. From Czechoslovakia to Japan, Norway to Nepal, rediscover the mysteries of fables from every corner of the world as they are brought back to modern society with dark and horrifying new twists.

Love me a myth!

This is a series about myths and the creatures and beast that populate them. Yet, human imagination is vast and tireless, and despite my best efforts, cataloguing every single creature that human kind has imagined throughout the centuries is an unachievable—not to mention very intimidating—goal. Nonetheless, I searched and researched the peculiarities and identities of as many mythical creatures as possible, particularly those that are most cryptic and which nature is less known and I'll introduce them to you. All their biographical data and peculiarities but not without adding a tiny touch of my own, as each week each mythical being will be introduce with a short story, mostly of the flash type, of my own creation.

Enjoy!

Miss Exclusive

     Everyone wants their 15 minutes of fame, right?  Well, almost everyone. 

     They call me "Miss Exclusive."  People just seem to want to tell me their stories, and I print them in my newspaper column of the same name.  I've talked to some really interesting and amazing people, and you never know who's going to come out of the woodwork to tell me their story...or when the story will tell itself.

2015 Short Story Contest Finalists

This is a monthly series featuring the 12 finalists of our 2015 Channillo Short Story Contest. The stories will be released in random order as follows.

"Green Means Stop" by Opher Goodwin    

"Under the Cover of Dreams" by Lynn Forest

"Beverage Therapy" by Eliza Leone

"The Scar" by Tom Farr

"The Slush Pile" by Ryan Lackey

"Gas Station Flowers" by C.E. Stokes (3rd Place)

"Monster Mash" by Julia Patt (1st Place)

"New Age Digital Hero" by Joe Prosit (2nd Place)

"Hair Dying" by Melissa Algood

"Visitation" by Devan Burton

"The Cricket Breeder" by Justin Overton

"The Children of Muspell" by Katie Drake

**Subscribing to this series will not count toward your subscription limit. This is a bonus series created by Channillo.com

Jokes on You

Welcome to "Jokes on You," where laughter knows no bounds! Join me, Adeola Gabriel Ademuwagun, known by my stage name Gatsby, as I take you on a hilarious journey through the world of comedy, personal anecdotes, and cultural exploration.

As an immigrant who embarked on a life-changing adventure from Nigeria to the United States, I'll share the captivating story of my journey, shedding light on the triumphs and challenges that come with embracing a new culture. From my experiences as a newcomer, navigating the streets of America, to finding humor in the everyday occurrences that make up my life, I'm here to offer a unique and entertaining perspective.

Through the lens of a seasoned stand-up comedian, I'll delve into sidesplitting tales that traverse cultures, experiences, and the comedy circuit itself. Brace yourselves for uproarious accounts of my escapades as I showcase the art of storytelling that bridges the gap between continents.

But that's not all – "Jokes on You" is more than just laughter; it's a comprehensive guide to discovering the hidden gems of my adopted city, Chicago. From pocket-friendly date spots for couples seeking romance to wallet-friendly outings that promise unforgettable memories, I'll uncover the best-kept secrets and events that make the city come alive.

Expect to feast your eyes on captivating visuals, as I provide an inside look into my explorations, the events I attend, and the latest additions to Chicago's vibrant landscape. Pictures, videos, and anecdotes will come together to create a vivid tapestry of entertainment and insight.

Join me as I blend the art of comedy and writing, crafting stories that will tickle your funny bone and warm your heart. With my extensive repertoire of short stories and hilarious narratives, each episode promises to be a delightful dose of entertainment.

Get ready to embark on a rollercoaster of laughter, culture, and discovery. Welcome to "Jokes on You" – the ultimate destination for a good laugh and an enriching experience that transcends borders!

The Moon is Crying

What monsters lurk in your mind? Why does The Hollow One wait? Who made the stars dance?

The Moon is Crying is a collection of contemplative microfiction with a touch of magic. Stories are bite-sized (under 1,000 words) and aim to explore the depths of human nature. Elements of fantasy and horror may be included.

The Moon is Crying is a Channillo for Charity series.

Wilderhark Talettes

Spreading vast and ever watchful since before “once upon a time…”, the forest of Wilderhark has seen its share of magic, adventure, and truest love. Now, in these stories inspired by the reader-acclaimed Wilderhark Tales novellas, journey beyond the forest for tales never before told. Some faces and places may prove familiar. Others may be all-new.

The world of Wilderhark awaits. Go forth and be enchanted.

2016 Short Story Contest Finalists

This is a monthly series featuring the 12 finalists of our 2016 Channillo Short Story Contest. The stories will be released in random order as follows.

"The Waitress" by Allison Walters Luther

"Beyond the Grave" by Katharina Klamt 

"Love Over Coffee" by Marie Scampini

"The Sin Eater" by Holly Tellander (1st Place)

"One-Eyed Undertaker" by Carrie Connel-Gripp (Tie for 3rd Place)

"A Sleepwalker's Nightmare" by Nicole Gantz

"Let's Go" by Malissa Greenwood

"The Oppenheimer Curse" by Chris Waltz

"Dead Bespoke" by Philip Ridgers

"Dr. Google" by Brooke Reynolds (2nd Place)

"The Painted Castle" by Karen Murdarasi (Tie for 3rd Place)

"A Note For When She Wakes Up" by David Just

**Subscribing to this series will not count toward your subscription limit. This is a bonus series created by Channillo.com

Crossing the Streams

Non-human romance. Tarot-powered difference engines. The bureaucracy of the gate to Hell. These and more appear in this anthology of strange stories by Jeremy Zimmerman. This anthology collects five genre-bending tales from fantasy to steampunk to cyberpunk.

“I won’t spoil the ending, but I will offer that the imagery in this tale is so wonderful that the settings sometimes transported me away from the main character’s conflict. The scenes in this story, like Impressionist art, consist of ordinary subjects displayed in mesmerizingly vacillating light. Whereas I usually care most about plot and about character development, these descriptions were so robust that I would gladly read additional pages of Zimmerman’s work just to reimmerse myself in his language.”
– KJ Hannah Greenberg, Tangent, regarding “A Crazy Kind of Love”

“Unchained Melody is a sharp, beautiful blow to the heart. Zimmerman wrote a heroine who is recognizable; a woman who is defining herself, on her terms.”
– Lillian Cohen-Moore, author of The Imperial Companion, and Hatavat Chalom

The Blackbird Chronicles: Volume One

Are you a fan of otherworldly stories that make you examine ordinary things and situations in a new, strange light? If so, The Blackbird Chronicles: Volume One​ is for you. Ten distinct tales to make you think and chill your bones.

Enjoy!

Land of Wishes

Welcome to Aramond, the land where fantasy creatures live together in... well, what used to be harmony. 

After generations of living together in peace, it has come to the attention of three sisters that the world is in need of healing. 

Follow Narissa as she works to strengthen the bonds between creatures in her world, and bring back the unity they once enjoyed. 

Haunted

Follow this series as strange and unexplainable encounters are shared.   

Many of these happenings are true, however, events are creatively embelleshed for entertaining fiction.

Welcome Home

Sarah was adopted at birth and knows nothing of her biological family. She receives a letter from a grandmother she's never met along with an inheritance check and invitation to come live on the family's farm. Will she finally get the answers to the questions she's been harboring her whole life?

Fortier: Blood & Moon

Fortier is the story of Alfred Zeidan, a vicious, deadly and renowned vampire that secluded himself away from everyone for hundreds of years, until a message reaches him from his father calling for his return. 

Part of him knew that this was about the Bertrams, another family of vampires that are fierce rivals and sworn enemies of the Zeidans, in fact the sole reason why he shunned the world he grew up with was because of the fighting and long standing feud between the two families.

But alas, he returns... for better or worst.

The Devil, You Say

Thomas Carlton, wealthy man about town, and his faithful companion, Grace Glass, don masks to fight crime in 1930s Cobalt City as Devil Cat and Imp. 

This book collects together three tales of pulp heroism, pitting the Diabolical Duo against threats that are out of this world.

Riding in the Car With Children and Other Travesties of Adulting.

As a father of four children ranging in ages from 12 years to 21 months, Christopher Stanley is....tired. Riding in the Car with Children and Other Travesties of Adulting is a collection of short stories detailing the awful, stressful - and humorous - trials and tribulations in which parents and caregivers find themselves at the end of each day as they tenuously cling to their last bits of sanity. 

Exasperating as these situations can be, these stories also convey a tender overarching message to enjoy these days while we can, as they will surely be gone in the blink of an eye. Sit back and enjoy one family's chaotic tale of life, love and despair. Welcome to adulting. 

Super

What if your best intentions cost the lives of innocents? Follow Fletcher, a Muay Thai fighter, as he becomes a crime fighting vigilante in order to keep his brother safe in a dangerous city. And share the burden of this young man as his actions turn him from a do-gooder to a criminal and murderer.

Female Anonymous

Humorous short stories depicting female characters.

Disfigured Liberty-Six Short Stories

Absolution

Karl made a mistake, a mistake that he will take to his grave. After experiencing profound loss, a loss that his wife cannot bear, he is compelled to carry on, unable to follow his family, unable to let go of the pain, unable to break his promise or to ease his grief.

Cured

In the confines of a psychiatric institution, Rhys attempts to deal with the abuse he has suffered. The hospital is not above shelling out its own abuse however and Rhys finds that after all the medication, after all the counseling, there is a much faster and more appealing way to appease his demons.

Savior

After being involved in a terrorist attack, an attack so full of gore and grief that will it change all those who witnessed it, a father and son, haunted by shame and regret, attempt to get passed the experience in entirely different ways.

Elegy

Martin's life of self promotion, his hunger for fame, and ultimately a drunken night of debauchery, force his wife into the arms of another man. Martin joins Charlotte, his psychotic sister-in-law to prevent this love affair from taking place and to win his wife back.

The Child Catcher

Paul, a schoolboy, is tormented by the wild man next door who drinks and curses at the moon, who watches him, who follows him. Morbidly afraid, Paul refuses a gift that he will regret forever. 

Disfigured Liberty

Kate longs to recapture the fumbling excitement of her youth. After finishing her marriage by e-mail she stumbles across a rock star whose legend and hedonistic lifestyle leads her to discover the truth about his death, the message he was trying to communicate--all roads lead to Hornsey Lane bridge.