Dorothy Tinker

This collection of short stories was put together from the winning entries received for the Houston Writers Guild Outside the Window - Tales of the World contest. The world is our backyard, and adventures are a window away. Delight in the unique perspective of these stories, in which the authors have crafted their vision by looking outside the window of their experience and creativity to bring us their tales of the world. Andrea Barbosa, HWG Press Director

When Chaos threatens their minds, what will become of their hearts? When Gemini Cosley and King Ferez Katani fell asleep on the night of Mid-Season, the newly courting pair was happy. True, secrets still hang between them, but Gemi and her bondmates agreed that Mid-Season was for enjoying themselves and the telling of secrets could be saved for another day. Unfortunately, that other day will not be soon. When everyone wakes the next day, Gemi is missing, her bondmates remember neither her nor each other, and the king believes himself to be the farmer he's pretended to be for half a season. Worse yet, as those who know the truth struggle to rectify the situation, Chaos breaks out across Evon, threatening the gods as much as the world they rule. Even if her allies do manage to save Gemi from their enemies, can they save her from herself? Or will they be forced to abandon her to the power that threatens both her and Evon's lost king?

War wants to play The Game, but Peace doesn't remember the rules. A month ago, Ferez Katani, young king of Evon, agreed to travel anonymously with James Caffers, advisor to the united rebellious groups. Despite their growing friendship, Ferez still hasn't learned his companion's most well-kept secret: James is actually a girl and the only remaining heir to the duchy of Kensy, Gemini Cosley. In addition to the secrets still hanging between them, the recent revelation of a powerful, otherworldly enemy named Markos follows them into Zhulan. Here, they join the nomad clans as they face a poison spreading through the province's cities. Along with their constant companions--the young dragon, Flame Tongue; the warrior mare, Last Chance; and the facetious stallion, Shadow Racer--can they find peace for themselves and the province, or will Zhulan fall to the poisonous gift of War?