Latest Stories
Most recently published stories on Vocal.
The Room That Wasn’t There
I moved into the apartment because it was cheap, not because I liked it. The building stood between two newer complexes like a forgotten tooth. Its bricks were faded, its stairwell smelled of old paint and trapped moisture, and the hallway lights flickered with a patience that made you feel watched. But the rent was half of what other places charged, and my job had just cut my hours. I told myself I could live with ugly.
By Active USA 18 days ago in Horror
How to W(h)in(e). Content Warning.
Jennifer Love Hewitt, the volume of complaining from allegedly grown folks is astounding. I’m especially intrigued by the idea that making the complaint rhyme makes it a poem instead of a thinly-veiled complaint, like there’s a prize for rhyming whining.
By Harper Lewis18 days ago in Writers
Pastel Nightmare
The Johnsons were the quintessential suburban family. Laura, her husband Mark, and their two kids, Ellie and Ben, loved going all out for the holidays. Easter was no exception. Pastel-colored eggs, garlands, and bunny decorations adorned their home every year, but this time, Laura wanted to make it extra special.
By V-Ink Stories18 days ago in Fiction
The Burrow
The Thompsons had planned their Easter weekend months in advance. A family camping trip seemed like the perfect escape from the monotony of suburbia, a chance to bond over s’mores and nature hikes. The secluded Maplewood Campground, nestled deep in the woods, promised tranquility and picturesque views. They had no idea what awaited them beneath the ground.
By V-Ink Stories18 days ago in Fiction
7 Books That Will Blow Your Mind in Under a Week. AI-Generated.
In our constantly busy lives, carving out time to read can often seem like an impossible task. Yet, some books are so transformative, thought-provoking, and concise that they can reshape your perspective in just a few days. Below is a list of 7 books that will blow your mind in under a week. These books cover psychology, philosophy, and human behavior, providing both practical insights and profound wisdom.
By Diana Meresc18 days ago in BookClub
7 Climate Fiction Books You Must Read In 2026. AI-Generated.
Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it is a pressing reality that shapes our world in profound ways. One of the most compelling ways to understand its human, ecological, and societal impact is through climate fiction—or “cli-fi.” These novels do more than entertain; they challenge us to imagine futures shaped by rising temperatures, melting ice, and shifting weather patterns. Below is a list of 7 climate fiction books you must read in 2026.
By Diana Meresc18 days ago in BookClub
Take Off Your Prose!. Content Warning.
Welcome to the Temple of the Profane. I know, right? Whodathunk I’d ever encourage end rhyme? If it’s offensive, I’m okay with it. Grab a pint of Guinness or Jameson’s and don’t tell me “dirty limerick” is redundant. I’m well aware that if it isn’t dirty, it’s not a true limerick. But some people try to ruin a good time with some puritan Pollyanna bullshit every chance they get. I’ve read some clean limericks, and there’s something about them that’s more wrong than an olive in a Bloody Mary or a stalk of celery in a fucking martini. If I can figure out how, I’ll fine anyone who tries to sneak a clean limerick in here, and I’ll press criminal charges if sentimentality enters the equation. It has no place outside of Hallmark cards and movies, and we’re not dumbing down this room.
By Harper Lewis18 days ago in Writers
