Writing Prompt Wednesdays: Cursed Painting

Welcome to “Writing Prompt Wednesdays,” a haven where your imagination can roam free in the realms of speculative fiction. As we embark on this weekly journey, it’s thrilling to think about the untold stories waiting to be penned in the domains of horror, science fiction, and fantasy. Whether you’re a seasoned author or a budding wordsmith, these prompts are your gateway to unexplored worlds and untapped potentials.

Every Wednesday, we’ll serve up a fresh, thought-provoking prompt designed to ignite your creative spark and challenge your storytelling prowess. Think of these prompts as a key, unlocking the doors to uncharted territories where your creativity is the only limit. From eerie, shadow-laden corridors of Gothic horror to the farthest reaches of interstellar space, and the mystical depths of high fantasy, our prompts are a kaleidoscope of possibilities.

Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to approach these prompts. They are mere stepping stones, guiding you towards the vast landscapes of your imagination. Use them to break free from writer’s block, to experiment with new ideas, or simply as a fun exercise to keep your writing skills sharp.

This week’s writing prompt:

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3 Spine-Chilling Horror Novels to Read This Spring 2025

As the days grow longer and the nights remain cool, spring is the perfect time to dive into some spine-chilling horror novels. Whether you are a seasoned horror aficionado or just looking to explore the genre, these books promise to deliver thrills and chills that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Reading horror can be a cathartic experience, allowing you to confront fears in a safe space while enjoying a gripping story. Here are three must-reads that you won’t want to miss this spring.

As to the reason that I picked them? It’s a new year, and I like to start every new year with new voices. These are what I felt ‘sounded’ like the three most interesting options on this year’s Bram Stoker Awards ballot for “Superior Achievement in a First Novel.” I’d like to stress that I haven’t read these works yet, and the other two that were listed also sounded interesting – I just have so much time in the day and from a synopsis point of view – these stuck out!

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High fantasy is the land of sweeping landscapes, towering castles, and magical creatures—but none of that means anything without compelling characters to bring the story to life. A great fantasy tale isn’t just about the setting; it’s about the people (or creatures or gods) who inhabit it. The best high fantasy characters resonate with readers because they feel real—complex, flawed, driven, and deeply human, even when they aren’t human at all.

Over the past few years, I’ve really ramped up my fantasy writing. Creating the characters, world, and everything related to it is just as fun as writing the story itself and just as important.

This guide will give you a solid look into what you need to craft unforgettable characters, from creating rich backstories to avoiding common stereotypes and integrating your characters seamlessly into the world you’ve built. We’ll also throw in some fun examples and anecdotes along the way because, let’s be honest, fantasy writing should be as enjoyable as the worlds we create!

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