Assemble Artifacts Short Story Magazine: Summer 2023 (Issue #4)

Summary

Assemble Artifacts

A short story magazine that assembles a thrilling new mix of stories from genres including horror, science-fiction, comedy, and suspense. Buried at the heart of every story in the magazine is a unique artifact, an object that has inspired our storytellers to create a big idea, an irresistible question, a new immersive world, or a sense of wonder. Unearth your next great read with Assemble Artifacts.

“Nothing Was Already Here” by April WolfeIn the frigid Arctic, a crew of researchers is on the verge of losing their minds. Suddenly, a duplicate research base and crew appear out of nowhere, throwing them into a mind-bending mystery. As they confront their darkest fears, they begin to question if their true adversary is themselves.

“Labyrinth Loop” by Isabel J. KimA precocious teenager thinks his father is at work to break them out of the time loop they’ve been stuck in for years, but a chance encounter with another prisoner unravels the conspiracy behind their confinement.

“Divine” by Michael GriffoA stunningly irresistible man with mounting debts finds himself thrown into a world of seduction and espionage when he catches the eye of Dionysus, the Greek god of pleasure. With his charm, he is tasked with spying on the gods who have been living as powerful titans of industry on Earth. Will he succumb to their temptations or use his newfound power to bring them down?

“Dismantle” by Joshua SkyAfter losing his wife, a widower is offered the opportunity to reconnect with her using cutting-edge technology. However, what initially seems like a dream come true quickly becomes a nightmare when he discovers the sinister intentions of the corporation behind it and what he must do to dismantle the entire system.

“The Twelve Gates Barber Shop” by K.T. JayneAn ex-convict visits an enigmatic barber on his release, only to discover that he is in limbo between heaven and hell until he finishes paying his dues.

“Refrain” by Gretchen McNeilLooking for inspiration, an up-and-coming music producer frequents garage sales in search of rare vinyl. One of the records she discovers turns out to be cursed, featuring a mesmerizing track that haunts and ultimately kills anyone unlucky enough to hear it …