Hello everyone! Last week, I put out a note talking about how I wanted to start a series on Substack to specifically highlight writers whose work is hidden underneath the algorithmic sea. I remember what it was like being new here and screaming into the void.
So, I decided to do something about it, using my platform to lift others up.
It is my belief that when quality work thrives, we all do. Substack shouldn’t feel like a competition for the attention economy. If you are a writer that is putting in the hard work and your words are resonating, that deserves a chance to be recognized. If the website itself won’t do it, then I will!
I am hoping to do these lists at least once a month as I come across them. Please do take the time to read these stories, poems, and essays. If we want our work to be read, then we should be taking the time to read the work of others. It will help our own writing without us even realizing it. My only hope with this series is that these Hidden Gems will become not-so-hidden. Now onto the first volume of our curated finds!
This short story by Ryan about an elite squad of vampire hunters is written with such cinematic clarity that it brings to mind movies like Blade and Underworld. If you are looking for something that is full of suspense, tension, and bloody action—then this is definitely worth the read!
Baylee’s short story set in a Nordic fjord village is atmospheric, mysterious, and written with beautifully lush prose. The almost eldritch-like horror of the Havsvelgr permeates the piece throughout, culminating into something that feels darkly folkloric. You will enjoy the read!
This piece is formatted like a screenplay, offering a unique visual experience that is thoroughly and deliciously dark. Set in 312 AD Eastern Europe as a prologue to an ongoing series, Sacred Flesh sets the stage for a tale that promises plenty of bloodshed. It is worth your time!
This short story by Juste about a falling star causing the end of the world absolutely drips with a gorgeous melancholy. If you are looking for something where the characters express deep emotions in a short time, then you will want to read this piece. I promise you won’t regret it!
Jon’s short story based on a Japanese ghost tale about a man drawn to a strange, beautiful woman is compelling from the start. This is perfect for those of you looking for something in a non-European setting. The prose also reads so smoothly you forget where you are. Give this one a read!
I am a sucker (no pun intended) for vampirism entwined with eroticism. This particular poem struck me because it reminded me of the protagonist in my WIP. Brandon delivers a sensual experience that will appeal to vampire fanatics, so I would highly recommend it!
This essay piqued my interest at the mention of Magic: The Gathering, using an example of finding synergy between two cards to explain the art of combinatorics. Essentially, it demonstrates the powers of unexpected combinations. You will get a lot out of this if you apply it to writing!
As a writer’s favorite writer, C.C. always delivers high quality content. Recently, she began writing essays, with this one exploring the use of vices in the dark academia genre. Her passion and artistry oozes out of this essay to the point it might even inspire you. This piece is worthwhile!
Again, I do hope you take the time to read at least some of the work I’ve shared with you today. If it resonates, be sure to leave a like, comment, and/or restack. This will signal the algorithm that you want to see even more high quality work. Remember, this is a community, and we should be doing what we can to lift one another up. If you are also a writer, then you how difficult it is out there. A little encouragement goes a long way!
I look forward to sharing more Hidden Gems of Subsack. Thank you!!🖤
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