“Would you like to write a short story that I can publish on my blog?”
Those were the words of Marsha Ingrao, a writer and blogger who blogs at Always Write, who went on to create something special with the story I submitted.
The story, The People Under the Stairs, received many comments, many of which led to discussions. It was like sitting in a book club discussing the book everyone had read that month.
Three years later, Story Chat is a big success. Two books containing the stories for it have been published, and a third book is in the pipeline.
What is Story Chat?
Story Chat is more than a book club or writing or reading challenge. It is a unique and proven online program that encourages interaction between authors and readers. It’s part writers’ group, part beta readers, part fun fiction, and, best of all, pure enjoyment.
I give all the credit to Marsha, who had the idea. Although I contributed some input, Marsha worked hard to make Story Chat successful.
Story Chat—Vol. II, the 2024 compilation, was expertly edited by Colleen Cheseboro. As I reflect on the pages of the book, I feel a sense of happiness and pride in having contributed to both it and the Story Chat—Vol. I book.
This second book features a varied collection of original short stories by 20 authors from around the globe. While most stories are dramas suitable for all ages, from children to older adults, this collection includes science fiction and comedy. Additionally, two non-fiction articles (one of which I penned) discussing the writing process are included. All selections are family-friendly, even though the topics cater to adult readers.
The book features realistic fiction, surprises, and open-ended stories. Halloween vampire horror tales may make you laugh and reflect on how you can find humour in them. Travelling to an alternate universe – familiar to some – will keep you entertained. You might discover yourself stepping into one or two other universes that are so bizarre you won’t know how to respond to them. My story, ‘The Watcher,’ which centres on a walk in the fog, is one of those peculiar tales.
The characters will move you to tears as they courageously reach for love or confront tragedies you wish no one had to endure. You will chuckle at the older couple deliberating whether to book the adventure of a nudist cruise. You will root for a mother and her autistic child as they overcome challenges. One story will evoke memories of Toy Story or The Velveteen Rabbit. Another feature is an epic children’s poem with illustrations crafted from fondant by the talented author and her son.
The book is so much fun. Yet, it can be educational, especially for writers who constantly work to improve their craft. Each story has discussion questions you can use if you belong to a book club or writing group.
All of us, known as Story Chatters, hope this book will impact your lives.
You can purchase the Story Chat Vol II by following these links. Amazon.uk and Amazon.com
Six Reasons to Own This Book
- Great reading when relaxing on holiday.
- Introduce the Story Chat concept to your friends as a coffee table book.
- A book for writing groups or book clubs to improve members’ writing.
- Stories in the book are no longer available to read online.
- A birthday or any time of the year gift for friends that read.
- You’ll be supporting a growing number of blogging authors and writers to publish next year.
Story Chat Vol: I
Don’t forget to also take a look at Story Chat Vol: I, which includes stories from 14 international authors.
I have two stories in this book – ‘The People Under The Stairs’ and ‘Puddles,’ both of which will take you on a journey to the edge of your imagination.
Do I have any favourite stories in the books?
Yes, but I’m not going to share them with you. Every story has a reason why it’s in the book, and behind every story is a talented author and writer who has poured their heart and soul into crafting each word.
It is not merely about telling a tale; it’s about the intricate web of ideas, emotions, and experiences that culminate in a narrative that resonates with readers on various levels.
Each author draws from a well of inspiration, life experiences, and unique perspectives, making the stories not just entertainment but also a means of connection, reflection, and understanding of our world.
Story Chat Vol I is available at Amazon.com and Amazon.UK.
Want to be part of the next Story Chat book?
We’re seeking writers, authors, and bloggers to contribute stories to Story Chat 2025, which is currently underway on Marsha’s Blog. For full details, please visit Marsha’s blog.
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Things are a bit unsettled at the moment (in a good way) but as soon as things are calmer it looks like something to consider, so thanks Hugh.
You’re welcome, Paul.
Have a great weekend.
What a fabulous idea by Marsha, Hugh. Thank you for sharing this well written information.
Thank you. Marsha put together some templates to promote the books, so she did most of the work, Eugi. I added some of my own text and made some changes to the post.
You’re welcome, Hugh.
Even though I had read all the stories before on Marsha’s blog, I really enjoy my Kindle version with everything, including writing tips, combined into one volume. Nice write-up!
Thank you.
Organising everything into a book was an excellent idea. Congratulations to Marsha on all her hard work creating the book(s).
Thank you for making me aware of this. It sounds wonderful.
It’s a fantastic idea, and I’m thrilled to be involved in it. I hope you enjoy the book(s) if you buy them.
PS I’ve just downloaded the first volume.
I hope you enjoy the stories and discussions.
Thank you so much for downloading a copy.
Happy reading.
Thanks for telling us about this Hugh. I keep meaning to get involved and join in.
Please do join in by contacting Marsha. I’m sure she’d be delighted to hear from you.
Thank you for sharing this, Hugh!
No need to thank me, Miriam. I’m happy to share this information on my blog, especially since I’m a part of Story Chat.
Well done, you. Brilliant idea!
Thank you.
I like the idea behind the book which makes it so varied. Your enthusiastic presentation makes even more curious to get that book. Thanks for introducing it to us, Hugh.
Thanks, Erika.
A lot of this post was taken from templates put together by Marsha, although I did change some of the wording and added some of my own.
Then congrats to that template and the adjustments. Sounds all great!
Sounds like a wonderful book and a marvelous idea Marsha had. Sort of to bring out everyone’s creativity.
It does. Each story has a uniqueness that shows how different we, as writers, are.
What a fabulous idea Marsha had! I had not heard of Story Chat before, but these books sound awesome! Thanks for sharing, Hugh!
It was a brilliant idea that Marsha had, Jan.
She has put so much hard work into Story Chat. It’s become an incredible success.
Such a great book. So many different stories. The non-fiction tips ate so useful too. Thoroughly recommend.
Thanks, Esther.
Thank you kindly for the mention, Hugh. Marsha is a wonderfully kind and supportive writer and friend. She has put so much into this project. Thanks for the wonderful review.
You’re very welcome, Colleen. You did a great job formatting the book and designing the cover. I know how thankful Marsha is to you after the problems she encountered with Amazon with the first book.
I was horrified at how she was treated. We were determined to make this book the best it could be. I hope to write some flash fiction for this challenge soon. It’s a fun program.
It’s a great book, Hugh. I enjoyed all the different stories. And the non-fiction articles either end were great. Very useful tips for writers.
Thank you, Esther. It was a great idea by Marsha to put all the stories and the comments they got into a book. I’ve never seen anything like that before.