Shared Worlds
The first shared world I dove into was a dark fairy tales series, where I took Hansel and Gretel, Sleeping Beauty, and Little Red Riding Hood and twisted them into pleasing (to me) shapes. There are more to come, I am sure, but so far the most I've done has been for the dark fairy tales series. Sometimes it's fun to write with other people, and the chance to play in a group sandbox was too fun to pass up!
Drew and his sister, Scarlett, never imagined being driven from their home. But when their cunning stepmother convinces their father they can’t provide for them through the harsh winter, they’re abandoned in the valley to fend for themselves. Determined not to give up, they find their way back, guided by a trail of small, white stones Drew left behind.
What awaits them upon their return is far from what they hoped: a father who no longer remembers them, a stepmother hiding a dark and terrible secret, and a storehouse full of food they were told didn’t exist. Their stepmother isn’t the woman she pretends to be, and now Drew and Scarlett must find a way to save their father from her clutches.
Their only hope lies in the depths of the Witch’s Valley, where a powerful witch might hold the key to defeating the creature that has taken over their lives. As they journey into the valley, they encounter unexpected allies and dangerous foes. Discovering that not everything–or everyone—is as it seems.
Ruby Point feels antiquated in modern times. They still consider themselves a “kingdom” and have a royal family that has ruled for years. Today, the “king” serves as mayor and has a city council of nobles in the suburb. The small suburb lies on the west side of Sapphire City and is known mostly for a large flour mill and the fields outside of town. Because of this, things there are a little different than in other areas.
The youngest Pearson has come of age by their traditions, and his father tells him he must marry immediately. Crestfallen, he has no choice but to choose among the women selected from the council members’ daughters. Of course, the trouble is that the artistically inclined Leigh has no interest in women and wants to find a man to be his husband. Despite this, he’s instructed to choose, so he makes the best choice he can, choosing a young woman who doesn’t mind that the marriage will never be consummated.
Unfortunately for the young man, his chosen bride has a suitor, one who is not happy that his intended has been taken away by the mayor’s son. He intends to exact revenge on the person he believes has ruined his life, and at the wedding, makes a stunning proclamation. They resume the happy gathering, though chilled, as he leaves. Leigh and his new wife open their gifts and find one addressed to Leigh with no sender. He opens it and finds a beautiful book. Days later, when he opens it, he descends into a waking nightmare that will last until someone comes to his rescue.
Tracy doesn’t know his real name. He only knows the man reminds him of a wild animal—a wolf. So, when this intimidating stranger strides over one day and warns Tracy to stay away from where he and his “wolf pack” roam—or suffer deadly consequences—Tracy isn’t all that surprised. Yet, Tracy has never been one to back down, even against someone towering over him. Being the smallest in any group has taught him how to hold his ground, and he’s not about to let the Wolf scare him off.
The next time their paths cross, the Wolf approaches Tracy, ready for confrontation. But instead of shrinking away, Tracy stands firm, staring up at the larger man and making it clear he won’t be intimidated. To Tracy’s surprise, the Wolf’s reaction is unexpected: he stares, either stunned or impressed, before turning on his heel and leaving. Confused but unwilling to waste more time, Tracy returns to his task of gathering supplies for his ailing grandmother.
Days later, as Tracy arrives in the city, he hears labored breathing and the unmistakable sound of someone in pain. Rushing to investigate, he finds the Wolf—wounded and vulnerable. Against his better judgment, Tracy brings him home to nurse him back to health. The Wolf is silent for days, but when he finally speaks, he unravels a tale of betrayal, crime, and corruption he had tried to stop. Fearing for both of their safety, he pleads with Tracy to let him stay.
Moved by the story, Tracy agrees. But soon, he notices something strange: the once-fearsome Wolf seems compelled to follow his every request, no matter how small. Tracy can’t help but wonder—what exactly is behind the Wolf’s loyalty?
Meanwhile, the Wolf’s enemies lurk in the shadows, vowing to destroy him by targeting what he holds most dear: the people he has come to care for.
© 2024-2026 to Beverly L. Anderson. All rights reserved.
website@beverlylanderson.com
Get a free ebook of Walls when you sign up.
Get book news in your inbox every month, including release information, visits from my cats, and behind-the-scenes info!