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The Last Picks

Expanded Universe

Not yet published
Expected 29 Dec 25
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All the other stuff.

Expanded Universe is a collection of short stories from The Last Picks. It includes the

“Engineered Public Confession”

A glimpse into Dash’s life before his move to Hastings Rock.

“Mystery of the Week”

Someone steals Dash’s ice cream cone, and things…escalate.

“New Neighbors”

Dash adjusts to his new life in Hastings Rock—and to his budding friendship with Deputy Bobby.

“Friends on the Force”

Taking advantage of a local perk, Dash does a ride-along with his favorite deputy.

“Thanksgiving Episode”

On Dash’s first Thanksgiving with his new friends, things don’t go quite as planned.

“It Runs in the Family”

Dash’s sister arrives for an unexpected—and unwelcome—visit.

“Sheep in Sheep’s Clothing”

Bobby is most definitely not perfect. But why is it so hard to prove it?

“Chekhov’s Wig”

A box of stolen wigs. Jewel thieves on the run. What could go wrong?

“Birthday Beginning”

The Last Picks are determined to make Keme’s birthday a memorable one.

“The Odd Couple”

Dash and Keme might not be the original odd couple, but they’re odd enough.

“Home for the Holidays”

It’s Dash and Bobby’s first Christmas together. They manage to make it interesting.

“Good Cop, Bad Cop”

When Dash discovers someone is stealing Keme’s lunch, he’s determined to help. He’s just a little too late.

“Insufferable Geniuses”

Dash and Fox share the highs and lows of the artistic temperament.

“Found Family”

The Last Picks celebrate Keme’s graduation.

“Skip to the End”

Dash and Bobby celebrate their big day.


Please note that the first fourteen stories were distributed previously in various formats.

“Skip to the End” is exclusively available in this collection.

Kindle Edition

Expected publication December 29, 2025

About the author

Gregory Ashe

133 books1,769 followers
I'm a long-time Midwesterner. I've lived in Chicago, Bloomington (IN), and Saint Louis, my current home. Aside from reading and writing (which take up a lot of my time), I'm an educator.

While I enjoy reading across many genres, my two main loves are mystery and speculative fiction. I used to keep a list of favorite books, but it changes so frequently that I've given up. I'm always looking for recommendations, though, so please drop me a line if you have something in mind!

My big goal right now is one day to be responsible enough to get a dog.

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Profile Image for alyssa.
1,012 reviews214 followers
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November 10, 2025
December 29, 2025 defines the end of a (cozy) era. Because these books have been coming out consistently since last year, it’s also been a time marker of sorts for me. So when I say seeing the release date of the short story collection gave a little shock to the system, that’s the truth. I’m in disbelief, but glad and oh so grateful it’s been a constant, warm hug in the chaos of recent times.

I’ll miss them dearly! (Sobs over the title of the final short story 🥹)
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