“You had a step-sister?” I asked. She nodded and told me she’d said enough. Her people were dead, and she didn’t want to talk about them. I… Read more “Silver Bottle, Carmen Speaks, Episode 35”
Author: joanspilman
Former teacher, writer of Appalachian Literature, short stories, and fantasy. Current publication, "This Will Never Stop" see Kirkus Reviews, Vol. LXXXXVII, NO. 22 Nov. 15, 2019. Also featured on booktrib, and Booklife. Has published a YA entitled "Sansablatt Head", and books for children under the general title of "The Waddling Dead". Received MFA from Wichita State University where she received the fellowship. Published in Southern Humanities Review, Short Story International, Carriage House Review,Willow Springs, Laurel Review and other literary magazines. Winner of George Garrett Prize for Best Prose, W.WashingtonU. Winner of Microkosmos Fiction Award, WSU. Winner of John Maier Award at Marshall University.
This Textured Darkness, #122
The Nawab’s face was bruised, and he was sitting chained to the floor. He stared at Rizla without pleading, having accepted his fate.
Just in time for Thanksgiving: A Zesty Cranberry Salad
Ingredients One pound of cranberries 2 oranges, diced small 1 20 oz. can crushed pineapple, do not drain. 2 small pkgs. or 1 large pkg. of LEMON… Read more “Just in time for Thanksgiving: A Zesty Cranberry Salad”
Silver Bottle, Episode 34
Carmen Speaks I was so excited I hardly knew what to do, so I did what I knew how. I finished cutting the onions, sprinkled the steaks… Read more “Silver Bottle, Episode 34”
Bread Pudding from the Heart of Tennessee
Ingredients 1/2 cup raisins 5 slices bread cut into strips 1/2 stick margarine or butter melted, 3/4 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 cups… Read more “Bread Pudding from the Heart of Tennessee”
This Textured Darkness, #121
Rizle wished he’d tumble down the stairs. She wanted to hear cracking bones.
Silver Bottle, Episode 33, Carmen Speaks
I’d deaden myself with Sominex, telling myself that everything would be over soon.
Silver Bottle, Episode 32, Carmen Speaks
Do you still believe Samy is alive, Carmen?
This Textured Darkness, #120
Her laughter was most unpleasant. She used a gossamer sleeve to pat her eye.
Silver Bottle, Episode 31, Carmen Speaks
I remained a virgin when I didn’t want to.
