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We have published our SECOND short story anthology!
Welcome to Mystic Springs, where the cure may be stranger than the ailment.
Tucked away in the heart of Missouri is the little town of Mystic Springs, famed for its healing waters and quirky locals. The natural springs nestled in its quiet woods have long been rumored to possess mysterious healing powers, drawing hope-filled visitors from near and far. The Writers of Warrensburg present a unique collection of stories set in this peculiar town. Each tale, woven from a different genre, follows characters whose lives are turned upside down by the springs. Whether it’s a romance sparked by the water’s magic, a thriller set in the town’s shadowy corners, or a science fiction twist on healing, the springs always deliver… something. So, take a sip from the springs, but be warned: the water might fix what’s wrong, or it might reveal something you never dreamed was broken. Get your Kindle or paperback copy here! |
The challenge: Create a fictional small town located in Missouri, add a few common characters that could appear in any or all of the stories, create so e details of the town, including various businesses, and add some local freshwater springs with a history of producing water with strange healing properties. Finally, each author will write a short story that takes place in the town and must involve how these springs affect the characters' lives.
The result: Mystic Springs: A Collection of Anomalies.
The result: Mystic Springs: A Collection of Anomalies.
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Samantha Simpkins - Police Chief
Samantha moved here from St. Louis four years ago. Samantha feels she is young for this police chief job, less experienced than she would like to be. She basically inherited the position eight months ago when the other police chief (Russell Bagshaw) mysteriously disappeared. The two got along well, and Samantha was just starting to be comfortable in her role, then Russell left for home at the end of his shift one day, but he never showed up at home. No one has seen him since. Russell was 57, and his wife (Tonia) still lives in their home—still hoping he will show up soon. Being from a city, Samantha still doesn’t understand all the quirks of small-town life, and she feels a bit like an outsider. Samantha wants to fit in, and she often tries to be buddy-buddy with the residents, but it doesn’t always come across as genuine. |
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Anita Dunstan - Veterinarian
Anita was born and raised in Mystic Springs. She started her practice here seven years ago. Her husband Garrick works at the practice also, working at the front desk and taking care of all clerical and financial business. Anita is the only vet in the area. Anita is outgoing and cheerful, but locals know that she suffered a terrible experience when she was in high school. She was attacked by two large dogs. Most locals remember this event, and they show her extra kindness as a result. Many people suspect she became a veterinarian as a way to get past her fears. |
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Rico Cerna - Social Media Influencer
Rico lives at home with his parents, Octavio and Ana Cerna, and he makes an undisclosed amount of money as a social media influencer. No one in town knows how much he makes, nor do they really understand how he could make money doing such a thing, but they do know he recently purchased a shiny new SUV, and his parents bought a new minivan. He regularly creates videos that go viral, sometimes with millions of views. Rico makes videos about almost anything, but his specialty—the videos that get the most followers—are those about the goings on in the small town of Mystic Springs, particularly featuring the odd assortment of people visiting the springs from all over, drawn by the strange legends and stories related to the springs. Rico is popular with the local girls, but he is often seen flirting with the out-of-towners—the ones he meets to talk them into being in his videos. |
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Flaminia Tempest - Professional Psychic, owner of Mystic Visions
Flamina moved to Mystic Springs twenty-three years ago, with the notion that this town was the perfect place to establish a professional psychic service, which she considers to provide a legitimate service to those who want to know their future, to contact their dead loved ones, or to simply get personal advice pulled from a mystic realm. Most of her clients are visitors drawn to the area by the mysterious legends of Mystic Springs. Part of the experience of visiting Mystic Springs is paying a visit to Mystic Visions to see Flaminia. Flaminia may have hobbies that she engages in at home, but no one knows what they are because no one ever goes to her house, except for a particular mysterious man who visits her a few times per week, arriving in the evening and leaving early the next morning. The man is definitely from out of town because no one knows who he is. |
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Judd Rusbridge - Owner of the Deer Stand Café and Honky Tonk
Judd is the consummate “good old boy.” He’s quick with a joke, many of them on the raunchy side, and everyone in town is fair game when it comes to good-natured teasing as well as harsh criticism. The Deer Stand Café and Honky Tonk is his pride and joy, and he considers the place to be a “gosh darn respectable establishment that brings a bit of culture to Mystic Springs.” The Deer Stand is open on weekdays, but on weekends it’s a rather wild place with plenty of dancing and “whooping it up” until well after midnight. He likes to say “The beer is always cold, and the food and ladies are hot.” Judd is an avid deer hunter and fisherman, and he has a never-ending supply of hunting and fishing stories to tell, some of which might be of questionable accuracy. |
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Allen Sweeting - Pastor of the Mystic Springs Methodist Church
Allen and his wife Myra, and their two kids Karina (18) and Chance (16), are involved in almost all social events and causes in Mystic Springs. They are well respected by most, but some people consider them “newcomers” because they moved to this town only five years ago. Allen is the pastor of the Mystic Springs United Methodist church, although many of the residents refer to him simply as the “minister.” He is prone to correcting them on this point, and so are Myra, Karina, and Chance. Allen’s primary pastime is community service of any kind, but he also has a passion for reading romance novels, and he goes through at least two per week. Some members of the church see this as humorous. Others see it as downright strange, or even scandalous. |
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Meet the Contributing Authors
(in the order their stories appear in the book)
(in the order their stories appear in the book)
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WILLIAM SCHLICHTER
Story - The Cat’s Pajamas William Schlichter is an award-winning screenwriter and author of science fiction and horror, who enjoys exploring the phantasmagorical world of the undead. Fan favorites include his popular No Room in Hell zombie series, SKA: Serial Killers Anonymous about a serial killer support group, and his fantasy noir Sirgrus Blackmane. His full-length feature script, Incinta, is a 2014 New Orleans Horror Film Festival finalist, while his TV spec script episode of The Walking Dead placed third in the 2013 Broadcast Education Association National Festival of Media Arts. When not writing, William enjoys spending time on the convention circuit, and teaching acting, composition, and creative writing. Website: https://sandmenandzombies.com |
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STAN C. SMITH
Story - Beetlestone Stan’s secret formula? Create strange worlds filled with even stranger creatures. Drop in unsuspecting characters. Shake vigorously. The results are always fun. Stan lives with his wife Trish deep in the Ozark Forest of Missouri, where creatures are more docile than those in his novels. His goal is to stimulate your sense of wonder, get your heart pounding, and keep you reading late into the night. His books are for anyone who loves adventure, discovery, and mind-bending surprises. Want a new short story every two weeks? Subscribe to Stan’s newsletter: http://www.stancsmith.com |
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ARIA LANGRIM
Story - The Fairy’s Spring Aria Langrim believes most stories would be better with a few more dragons, and that poetry is an inevitability of human language. Growing up pre-internet, she fell in love with her parents’ fairy tale and poetry books. When not writing, Aria can be found working her it-pays-the-bills day job, reading, making art, or napping. She dreams of one day owning a fiber farm, including animals like silk moths, angora bunnies, and sheep. Aria is a mid-Missouri author living with one of her besties and more books than she has space for. Aria’s Website: https://aria-langrim.weebly.com |
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P.N. HARRIS
Story - Samuel P.N. Harris was raised in small-town middle America, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Relations and a Master of Arts degree in Mass Communication. Her essay, “Prolific Stereotypes of Black Men and Images of Black Masculinity in Tyler Perry’s ‘Diary of a Mad Black Woman’”, was published in the anthology, Interpreting Tyler Perry: Perspectives on Race, Class, Gender, and Sexuality. Ms. Harris enjoys fantasy, science fiction, whodunits, and comedies, both in print and on film, as well as classic films and TED Talks. She also enjoys music and musicals. |
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B.A.L. McMILLAN
Story - The Scarlet Oak Whether writing realism or fantasy, McMillan explores the mysteries of everyday characters—their concept of good and evil, their personal choices, strengths, and passions. She writes about factory workers, musicians, children, animals, ghosts, angels, witches. Through traditional and indie presses, she has published four collections of fiction, three novels, a novelette, and co-authored a biography of a Missouri fiddler. Her most recent book is Ghost House, available through major bookstores. Her current project, near completion, is Plum and Crow, a fantasy. Websites: www.rmkinder.net and www.balmcmillan.com. Please visit and correspond. |
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AMYE WEBSTER
Story - The Narrow Trail “Born in a barn” is a figure of speech until you spend time with Amye Webster. A horse barn is her natural habitat, and she has dedicated her life to raising, training, riding, and showing great horses. She is also very devoted to her second love, which is writing. Amye now resides on a beautiful horse farm near Kansas City, Missouri. There, she divides her time between the saddle and her writing desk. Her literary endeavors are always well-flavored with her own personal experiences within the world of all things Equine. |
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JACK “MILES” VENTIMIGLIA
Story - Silk Man Some writers build worlds. Jack builds people—fantastic characters who interact realistically with each other and the world around them. Experience informs the characters he creates. Jack’s background includes high school dropout, carnival game clerk, Mississippi River barge hand, natural gas roughneck in Oklahoma, journalist in Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas, and a 2021 Missouri Press Association Hall of Famer. He has received scores of writing awards, and prizes a Missouri State House proclamation in “deep gratitude” for his public service. Jack and his family live in Missouri with a shaggy mutt and more books than shelves. |
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JASON MEUSCHKE
Story - The Ghost Writers Jason A. Meuschke is a U.S. Air Force Veteran who writes thrillers with various sub-genre elements like Paranormal Mystery, Crime, and Science Fiction. He’s currently expanding the world of his first series, which he labels Retro-80s Sci-Fi, called The Bandit Chronicles, with book three coming soon. Jason also hosts The Sample Chapter Podcast, a weekly show where he interviews authors from all around the world. Links for Jason’s books and show are at: https://www.jasonameuschke.com |
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G. A. EDWARDS
Story - Getting Nailed G. A. Edwards spent her earlier years as wife, mother, and public educator. Today she’s added grandmother, professional editor, public speaker, and published author to her daily mix. She hasn’t yet added independently wealthy, jet-setting world leader—but hope remains. Whether her current work is a humorous contemporary, young adult romance, traditional who-dun-it, or a thriller featuring a young protagonist attempting to navigate both high school and a hometown terrorized by a serial killer, she remains committed to her number one goal—spreading the joys of literature one word at a time. You can learn more at gaedwardspresents.com |
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DAN BRIGMAN
Story - The Undying Schism of Ana Kane Dan has lived in Missouri his entire life and resides near the town of Knob Noster. Fantasy and science fiction are his focus, yet he’s published in the field of history. He loves writing stories which speak to humanity’s essential relationship with nature. In his books, Dan uses magic, technology, and intellect to overcome challenges, unite devastated nations, or to restore separated families. When he’s not writing, he serves as a park superintendent and teaches martial arts. Find more about Dan at https://www.danbrigman.com, on Substack @danbrigman, or on Facebook. |
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STEPHANIE FLINT
Story - Will-o’-the-Whisker Stephanie Flint (she/her) loves reading and writing stories about sprawling worlds, uprooting oppressive societies, and awesome LGBTQ+ characters. When not writing, she creates digital 3D art, builds skybridges in Minecraft, and plays table-top games with her husband (who makes sure she doesn't break their story universes with one-too-many shiny new magic systems). Originally from Missouri, she graduated with a degree in photography and creative writing from UCM before moving to the snowy Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Find Stephanie on her blog (stephanieflintbooks.com), and subscribe to her newsletter for a free short story (infinitaspublishing.com). |
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R. A. WESLEY
Story - Beneath the Surface R. A. Wesley was first published in 1993, if you count when the local newspaper ran kids’ scary stories during October. She grew up an Air Force brat but spent most of her time in Utah. R. A. has a wandering spirit and has traveled to places like Thailand, Spain, England, and even worked on a cruise ship. She is now settled in the Midwest with her hilarious husband and two sassy kids. When she isn’t narrating books to her kids, she can be seen with one earbud in, catching up on audiobooks. Tell R. A. what she should read next at https://www.instagram.com/r.a.wesley Or email: [email protected] |
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DAVE SWANZ
Story - What's Inside Dave Swanz writes screenplays and short stories that start innocent enough but take a sharp left turn when they ask, “What if?” He then races down that path to find out. Dave was raised on a Northeast South Dakota dairy farm surrounded by wide-open prairie, which gave his imagination enough space so the characters in his head could run free. He came to writing later in life and, with help from Writers of Warrensburg, wrangled the characters running free in his head and gave them a home on the page. He now lives with his wife, Anna, in Missouri. |
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TAMMY CUMPTON
Story - Ivy Tammy Cumpton is a single parent of a curious, confident, creative daughter. The two of them spend their time enjoying nature and the many animals on their small family farm. Her writing styles and topics vary from story to story, but it's always fantasy fiction. Magic has always held a special place in her life. Tammy looks forward to writing her next story. Her short story, Ivy, is Tammy's first publication. |
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SCOTT UMPHREY
Story - The Blind Date Scott Umphrey, a writer of memoirs and short stories, grew up on Missouri’s rivers, lakes, and streams. He loves sharing his mostly true anecdotes with listeners and readers who relate to his everyday experiences turned into laugh-out-loud stories. He has held many audiences spellbound at open mics and readings. In his spare time, he enjoys boating, playing guitar, and researching the Civil War. He lives with his wife and music performing partner, Kathy, in West Central Missouri, where they play local concerts. |
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ANNI MEUSCHKE
Story - Nature’s Diadem Anni Meuschke is a naturalist at heart who loves spending time enjoying a cup of coffee while observing the outdoors. She loves to write and is currently working on her first novel, though she spends much of her downtime doing animal art portraits and private commissions alike. Her short story, Nature’s Diadem, is her first published piece. Her art projects can be found on her Facebook page: Sparks and Feathers – Artwork |
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BARBY BIRD
Story - The Psychic's Partner Barby is a passionate and avid reader who has recently made her mark with her first anthology contribution. She delights in crafting suspenseful murder/mystery stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats. Family is her top priority, and she cherishes every moment spent with them. Barby's hobbies include writing, reading, hiking, and traveling. She is also a dedicated metaphysical practitioner, running her own online business, "Tranquil Journey.” Residing in mid-Missouri, Barby shares her life with her loving and hilarious husband and their beautiful yellow lab, Judy, who is always up for an adventure. |
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A few fun images of Mystic Springs: A Collection of Anomalies
(feel free to share in email, website, or social media... we appreciate the support!)
(feel free to share in email, website, or social media... we appreciate the support!)
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