Overstuffed Lunchbox: A Bunch of Bite-Sized Bits

by Bowen Gillings

Overstuffed Lunchbox is the genre-bending collection of award-winning tales and lost treasures from master storyteller, Bowen Gillings

Laughs, gasps, and heart-pounding action are crammed inside this bulging box of circus heroes, world-weary warriors, and flirtatious neighbors bearing questionable casseroles. Lunchbox offers up a collection of short works that are endlessly entertaining.

Life in post-Eden suburbia may be no bed of roses for Adam and Eve, what with Dad planning a visit, but at least they have two semi-psychotic kids to even things out.

Renown warriors Rom and Drood set out to save yet another threatened village only to find they must call for help from the one being they dread above all others, an angel with wanderlust.

Falling asleep in class has its consequences--like a trip to the principal's office through empty halls stalked by a demonic hound.

This compilation includes some of Bowen's most popular shorts along with never before released tales.

292 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 17, 2025

About the author

Bowen Gillings writes to keep fiction fun. Known for his thrillers and fantasy fiction laced with snark, wit, and characters you could share a beer with, Bowen’s quirky, offbeat style “boggles the genre mind.” He loves giving back to fellow writers through media engagement and by leading workshops on the craft, business, and lifestyle of writing. He holds a Master of Education, five martial arts black belt certifications, and is an Army veteran. Travel enthusiast, lover of the outdoors, and habitual volunteer, Bowen’s secret joys include quiet moments by the fireplace and cooking big meals for family and friends. Find out more at storiesbybowen.com.

Reviews

[Nikia Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Remember the sense of mystery that accompanied opening your lunchbox as a kid? Anything could be in there- maybe a note from mom, something weird, something sticky? This collection captures that feeling and each story feels like a new little treat.
This collection is stuffed with Gilling's signature wit, warmth, and unexpected twists. There are plenty of familiar flavors and some of our favorite characters here (like Rom and Drood), but this isn't just a leftovers tray. There are also fresh tales from new perspectives, including one that started as a writing assignment back in Bowen's high school days, a tale of a cryptid, and a take on the biblical "first family." From the nostalgic to the hilarious to weirdly profound, Gillings delivers bite-sized brilliance in every one of his stories. Whether you're here for the laughs, the fight scenes, the chills, or the morsels in between, this collection delivers the right amount of care, spiced up with a touch of chaos.

[Pamela N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Overstuffed Lunchbox is exactly what its title promises a generous helping of unforgettable stories, each with its own flavor. Bowen Gillings proves himself a master of tone-shifting: one tale has you laughing out loud, another leaves you breathless, and the next makes you pause and think. The variety is outstanding, yet every piece feels polished and purposeful. This is the kind of short story collection that you keep coming back to, tasting again and again, and finding something new each time.

[Evan Bregel · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolute gem of a short story anthology. Bowen's writing style is fun, his plots are unique and interesting from first premise, and his characters are compelling and feel human. Bowen includes different genres from Eldritch horror, high fantasy, and mystery in this anthology and each one feels well written and understands what makes the genre work. All that being said, I would absolutely read a full length novel following Rom and Drood based on the stories included here.

[Samantha McMahill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bowen Gillings' Overstuffed Lunchbox is a genre-defying collection of short stories that masterfully blends humor, fantasy, and suspense. This anthology offers a smorgasbord of narratives, each distinct yet unified by Gillings' sharp wit and inventive storytelling.
Whether you're a fan of speculative fiction, dark comedy, or simply enjoy well-crafted short stories, Overstuffed Lunchbox is a treat that promises both laughter and reflection.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a collection of stories from Bowen Gillings.

There are quite a few stories in this book, and they are all so good! If you enjoy effortless writing that reads quickly, you will love these. Lots of different styles of short stories, and some super funny moments too.

Really enjoyed, and highly recommend!

I received this book from the author's arc, and these opinions are my own.

[Christina Bergling · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gillings makes fiction fun. In this collection of character-driven, witty, snarky tales, he keeps you entertained page after page. Rom and Drood will always be among my favorite characters, which is why I enjoyed Bound Hounds so much. This collection is the perfect summer read.

[David Hankins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a delightful collection! I especially loved the stories of Rom and Drood, a couple of snarky adventurers who get into all kinds of fun trouble.