Sex sells—even in storytelling.
Okay, it’s not as simple as that. But it’s hard to deny the “romantasy” genre’s surge in popularity.
Look, it’s not for me. And it never will be. But it’s a masterclass in writing to a specific audience with a clear purpose, which is a big part of what makes for a successful piece of writing. So we could spend all day shitting on romantasy… or we could learn a thing or two from the genre’s success.
This story, “Hunger,” didn’t start out as anything beyond a simple horror story, but the addition of some modest spiciness changes up the dynamic in an interesting way. I hope you enjoy it.
If you find yourself enjoying these stories at any point, please do consider subscribing. It really does go a long way.
Hunger
By J. Louis
Shela peeled her body away from his, her skin sticky with sweat, trying to catch her breath.
“Where did that come from?” She kissed him on the mouth, and he said nothing in response; Jack had never been a man of many words, but his six-month hunt for the changeling seemed to have robbed her husband of all joy and desire. But tonight, that look in his eyes, the hunger… She’d be lying to say she didn’t crave it.
She swayed her bare hips from side to side as she strode toward the wash basin, trying to elicit a response. Jack just lay there, his gaze fixed on her, as if in a trance. Heat rose to her face; he couldn’t take his eyes off her! Grinning, she splashed water on her face, trying to cool herself. Oh, how she had missed him!
When she turned around, Shela found the bed all but empty, a bundle of stretched and torn skin, slick with blood, discarded on the bed like a ratty old cloak. A low growl rumbled from the corner of the room, and a pair of glowing red eyes peered out from the shadows.
And they dripped with hunger.
From the Prompt Vault
Next, it’s your turn!
This week, write a story in a genre that makes you feel uncomfortable. Pay attention to the way your brain tries to subconsciously shift your work in the direction of something you’re more comfortable with—especially as you try to resist it.
If you use this prompt, be sure to restack this post and share your story in the comments! I love seeing what the fantasy community comes up with week to week.
Last Week’s Story (In Case You Missed It)
🚨 P.S. Did you know I wrote a book?🚨
If you like my fantasy stories, then maybe you’ll also like my microfiction. I wrote a whole-ass book about it, and it’s chock-full of resources to help you achieve your most productive writing year yet.
The Microfiction Method is now available for your reading and writing pleasure!
There’s so much packed into this book, including daily writing prompts, a habit tracker, reflective questions, short stories, essays… you name it, it’s probably here. If you pick it up, I’d love to hear your thoughts on it.
That’s all I’ve got for now! Thanks for reading, and until next time… keep writing.
Cheers,
Josh
Horror! All the more potent because of the intimacy of the moment. You did this one well.