Hello All! We’re trying something a bit different around here. Normally, we present opportunities for fiction writers to self-promote and readers to recommend what they’ve read/written and then we share links to those already written works of fiction with our readers.
But here at Top in Fiction we are not just in the business of sharing fiction, we are also in the business of inspiring you to write as well! So, whether you’re a pro and looking for a challenge or a beginning looking for a place to get your creative juices flowing, use StoryStack to help you out!
Learn all there is to know about StoryStack here.
IMAGE1 PROMPT
THE OBJECTIVE
Use the image above as inspiration to write your own story of any length. Whether you enjoy free-writing or giving yourself rules to follow, the choice is up to you. Just as long as you write those words!
THE CHALLENGE
Looking for a bit of a challenge and a chance to have your story featured on our TiF Press website? Then write a StoryStack using the image above. Be sure to label your story with “[StoryStack]” either before or after your story and which Method you used!
NOTE: In order to have your story appear on TiF Press you MUST copy/paste your ENTIRE story in the comments. Leaving a link to your story renders your story ineligible.
SHARE YOUR WORK
Whichever path you decide to take, make sure you leave a comment sharing your story with us, other fellow writers, and our amazing reading audience.
All images used: Unsplash / Pexels / Pixabay. We DO NOT use AI generated images.
[Storystack] Additive
Close one door, another will open.
Sun stained portals filled the hall, yet only one radiated the warmth of truth. Freedom locked inside, the key hidden in a much smaller room.
The knock came from within her ribcage; a pounding demand for release, an offer of reciprocation. *Let me free. Let us be free.* Her resolve steeled, cold as the blade in her belt that she drew forth. It drew from her too, across the palm, and the little room opened.
Keys spilled across the tile floor wearing scarlet toned gowns, pooling in the artisanal scars which marred the floor. The sun chamber hummed at the offering, and a metallic *thunk* echoed through the space from one of the marked doors. Forgetting the little room and its open door, she pressed toward the sound that signaled freedom. Each step grew a little heavier. Her mind grew hazy, something worth recalling now muddled beyond comprehension. The unlocked door did not permit her passage, the terms had not been met. She tried to hold the skin of her door closed to no avail.
The Guiding Light
A Story Stack: The Separation Method
October 25 2025
Prompt by:Top In Fiction:Behind Every Door #5
Picture Prompt
6 words
Pulsating beacons invite fiction writers home
25 words
At midnight the doors opened. The stars shone brightly, inviting those resting peacefully, to rise from their slumber and enter to receive their eternal blessing.
50 words
“I am afraid,” said Dorothy.
“The Doctor said you will never be able to see again. Hold my hand.“
“Yes mama.”
The Church came into view.
“Mama, look at the door knobs!”
“You see them?”
“Like guiding stars.” Dorothy ran up the stairs quickly and touched them.
“Count my fingers.”
100 words
“The eyes light up. An audience with the Lord is given,” said Sir George.
“When did this last happen?” asked Rodney.
“I’ve been standing here for 10 years, waiting.”
Suddenly, the eyes lit. The door opened. Sir George walked to the door.
The doorman held up a hand. “Not you. Him,” pointing at Rodney.
Sir George turned and stared. “Friend, your need must be greater. Go forth and receive the blessing that lies within.”
Rodney strode confidently to the door and held out his package. The doorman took the package and closed the door.
“Doordash,” Rodney said with a smile.
150 Words
The crowd gathered before the door.
“Friends, our peaceful protest shall demonstrate the need for all the essentials of life to be given back to us. We need to be paid for our work. We need to purchase the food to feed our families. We need to be able to care for our sick and those with other illnesses. We need to have homes that shall be heated in the winter time. We need to be able to pursue our lives in a dignified manner.”
The crowds roared and cheered loudly.
“Let us protest in peace sharing the love we feel for each other.”
“Wooo,” was the sound from their voices as the two bright lights on the door were joined by a mouth and nose that elongated rapidly.
The protesters scattered as a fiery breath emanated from the door.
“Run like rats,” said the man on the golden throne.