
Coming Spring 2025
As a mere breath: short stories
As a Mere Breath: Short Stories by Markus McDowell is a compelling and thought-provoking collection that delves into the intricate tapestry of human experience, resilience, and redemption. Nine evocative tales offer a unique lens on life’s challenges and triumphs. Drawing inspiration from Psalm 39:5, which reflects on the fleeting nature of existence, the book opens with the haunting “Fishhooks,” a metaphorical exploration of being ensnared by life’s burdens, followed by stories like
- “You Made Your Bed…,” a poignant look at neglect and self-discovery,
- “Train Wreck,” a meditative journey through order and chaos.
Other standout pieces include “Motivation Null,” a programmer’s struggle with burnout, “Schadenfreude,” a café scene of unintended humor, and “Guillotine,” a historical narrative of fear and fate. The collection culminates with “Battle-Weary,” a powerful Arthurian tale of leadership and moral dilemmas amid war.
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Posts about Short Stories VoLume 3
Sneak peeks, excerpts, background, announcements, and more…

Explore Life’s Struggles in ‘As a Mere Breath’ – New Short Story Collection coming soon
Dive into As a Mere Breath by Markus McDowell, a captivating collection of short stories exploring human struggles, resilience, and redemption. From the haunting “Fishhooks” to the battle-weary “Battle-Weary,” each tale offers profound insights into life’s complexities. Published by Keledei Publications, available soon! (ISBN: 978-1-958139-63-9)

Sneak Peek: “Non fui, fui, non sum, non curo” (short story draft)
Read this early draft of a short story by Markus McDowell, from his upcoming third volume of short stories.

Sneak Peek: A short story from my forthcoming third collection
Here is asneak peek from Markus McDowell’s third collection of short stories, entitled “Train wreck.” early draft.

“You will be put to death.” Scene from upcoming volume of short stories.
A sneak peek of a scene from a forthcoming volume of short stories, the third from author Markus McDowell. This excerpt is from “Guillotine.”
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