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Warriors Against The Storm
What if lightning was your only currency? What if talking to a house-sized spider determined the fate of your galaxy? Warriors Against the Storm weaves a thread of expectancy and overcoming the odds that will shake your resolve and take you on a roller coaster ride of wit and revelation.
In this compilation of short stories by twenty authors, get ready for interstellar adventure, wise and perilous dragons, jungle spirits of hope and death, supernatural law enforcement, magic-wielding freedom fighters, and a glowing sword that reflects its holder's wavering faith.
Join authors from across the globe in support of one of their own by partaking in these life-honoring tales where characters learn from their pain, challenge their beliefs, and question their sense of self. Their decisions will either save lives or bring the world to a disastrous end.
Dedicated To Mary Weber, Author and Teacher Extraordinaire
In this compilation of short stories by twenty authors, get ready for interstellar adventure, wise and perilous dragons, jungle spirits of hope and death, supernatural law enforcement, magic-wielding freedom fighters, and a glowing sword that reflects its holder's wavering faith.
Join authors from across the globe in support of one of their own by partaking in these life-honoring tales where characters learn from their pain, challenge their beliefs, and question their sense of self. Their decisions will either save lives or bring the world to a disastrous end.
Dedicated To Mary Weber, Author and Teacher Extraordinaire
168 pages, Paperback
Published October 15, 2020
2 people are currently reading
110 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
November 6, 2020
The thing that always astounds me about short stories is how much can be squeezed into so few pages. So much action, characterization, and heart.
And that held true for this anthology, a collection of twenty stories about brave souls standing up against impossible odds. Some of these tales in particular grabbed me within mere sentences and left me aching with wonder or empathy or inspiration...
- Lightning in a Bottle by Lani Forbes
- Spirit of the Jaguar by Cassandra Hamm
- Hold by Emily Hayse
- The Night Beasts by Savannah Grace
- After the War by Emily Grant
- The Doll Girl by Sarah Stasik
- A Place Among the Stars by Cassia Schaar
All in all, this is a collection brimming with powerful characters, monsters, and yes, the occasional storm.
P.S. I confess I also have a story included in this anthology, but my rating is based on the other 19. :)
P.P.S. The best part about the book is that it's a fundraiser for Mary Weber, an incredible author who's weathering a storm of her own right now. All proceeds go toward her family's recovery fund!
And that held true for this anthology, a collection of twenty stories about brave souls standing up against impossible odds. Some of these tales in particular grabbed me within mere sentences and left me aching with wonder or empathy or inspiration...
- Lightning in a Bottle by Lani Forbes
- Spirit of the Jaguar by Cassandra Hamm
- Hold by Emily Hayse
- The Night Beasts by Savannah Grace
- After the War by Emily Grant
- The Doll Girl by Sarah Stasik
- A Place Among the Stars by Cassia Schaar
All in all, this is a collection brimming with powerful characters, monsters, and yes, the occasional storm.
P.S. I confess I also have a story included in this anthology, but my rating is based on the other 19. :)
P.P.S. The best part about the book is that it's a fundraiser for Mary Weber, an incredible author who's weathering a storm of her own right now. All proceeds go toward her family's recovery fund!
October 19, 2020
This anthology holds its own, y’all. I’m usually very picky about short stories—they never feel fully-fleshed-out enough, to me?—but these ones showed up. For real. Each felt like its own tiny, rich world, and I didn’t want to leave. So, so good.
I wish I had time to touch on every story, but being that there’s twenty of them, we’d be here for awhile 😜. That said, though, I’m very partial to Spirit of the Jaguar, The Heart of a Shadow, Hold, and The Doll Girl. In my humble opinion, these were the cream of the crop. (Let it be said that The Doll Girl is dystopian as I’ve never seen it done before, which is something I never thought I’d be able to say. I’d recommend Warriors Against the Storm for this story alone. It almost felt like a genre all its own—Incredible.) But honestly, I loved every single story in this collection. They were all so good. And despite the fact that there are so many stories including, they’re all super unique and surprising!
(full disclosure: one of the stories in this anthology is mine, but that doesn’t affect my view of the rest of them 😉. Having read the whole thing, I’m now even more incredibly honored to be included!)
Even if you aren’t usually a reader of short stories, I’d still recommend giving this collection a shot (especially if you like speculative fiction and really luscious story-worlds). The stories are easy to read but powerful. Love this anthology.
I wish I had time to touch on every story, but being that there’s twenty of them, we’d be here for awhile 😜. That said, though, I’m very partial to Spirit of the Jaguar, The Heart of a Shadow, Hold, and The Doll Girl. In my humble opinion, these were the cream of the crop. (Let it be said that The Doll Girl is dystopian as I’ve never seen it done before, which is something I never thought I’d be able to say. I’d recommend Warriors Against the Storm for this story alone. It almost felt like a genre all its own—Incredible.) But honestly, I loved every single story in this collection. They were all so good. And despite the fact that there are so many stories including, they’re all super unique and surprising!
(full disclosure: one of the stories in this anthology is mine, but that doesn’t affect my view of the rest of them 😉. Having read the whole thing, I’m now even more incredibly honored to be included!)
Even if you aren’t usually a reader of short stories, I’d still recommend giving this collection a shot (especially if you like speculative fiction and really luscious story-worlds). The stories are easy to read but powerful. Love this anthology.
April 27, 2022
Wonderful. Beautiful. Amazing. I loved this! This anthology is just what I needed to read at the time I read it and all the stories gave me so much hope and courage to face the trials and overcome them in my own life. Several of the stories made me tear up while others really hit me and made me think, all of which I love in a story and am always deeply impressed when a short story can deliver all the feels just as well or even better than a full length novel.
I loved ALL the stories but, as usual in these kinds of books, I have several top favorites which are: Lightning in a Bottle by Lani Forbes, Spirit of the Jaguar by Cassandra Hamm, The Guardian’s Melody by Zachary Holbrook, The Heart of a Shadow by Tracey Dyck, Dreams and Nightmares by Luna R. Fuhrman, Hold by Emily Hayse, After the War by Emily Grant, and The Doll Girl by Sarah Stasik.
If you like tales of light in the darkness and hope overcoming all despair, then this is the anthology for you. I highly, highly, HIGHLY recommend this book!
Content {NOTE: this is for all the stories, so not all content applies to every single one}: magic; magical abilities, creatures, objects, and places; fighting, violence, blood, and injuries (not to semi detailed); death and grief; kids are nearly sold into slavery (they escape); demons; a nature spirit; mental torture/manipulation on a kid; a character is beaten
I loved ALL the stories but, as usual in these kinds of books, I have several top favorites which are: Lightning in a Bottle by Lani Forbes, Spirit of the Jaguar by Cassandra Hamm, The Guardian’s Melody by Zachary Holbrook, The Heart of a Shadow by Tracey Dyck, Dreams and Nightmares by Luna R. Fuhrman, Hold by Emily Hayse, After the War by Emily Grant, and The Doll Girl by Sarah Stasik.
If you like tales of light in the darkness and hope overcoming all despair, then this is the anthology for you. I highly, highly, HIGHLY recommend this book!
Content {NOTE: this is for all the stories, so not all content applies to every single one}: magic; magical abilities, creatures, objects, and places; fighting, violence, blood, and injuries (not to semi detailed); death and grief; kids are nearly sold into slavery (they escape); demons; a nature spirit; mental torture/manipulation on a kid; a character is beaten
October 30, 2020
"They can't see that life is still sacred, no matter what endangers it--that it's the cowards who take their own lives to spare themselves from pain, not the brave. To have courage, to dare hope--it's worth the pain." Hold, Emily Hayse
Truly inspiring read by so many truly wonderful and gifted authors. Well done, all!
Truly inspiring read by so many truly wonderful and gifted authors. Well done, all!
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November 5, 2020My favorite stories were
Lightening in a Bottle by Lani Forbes
Spirit of the Jaguar by Cassandra Hamm
The Revealing by E.S. Marsh
The Hear of a Shadow by Tracey Dyck
The Plague Dragon by J.L. Ender
Dreams and Nightmares by Luna R. Fuhrman
After the War by Emily Grant
The Switch by Rebecca Waddell
The Doll Girl by Sarah Stasik
Lightening in a Bottle by Lani Forbes
Spirit of the Jaguar by Cassandra Hamm
The Revealing by E.S. Marsh
The Hear of a Shadow by Tracey Dyck
The Plague Dragon by J.L. Ender
Dreams and Nightmares by Luna R. Fuhrman
After the War by Emily Grant
The Switch by Rebecca Waddell
The Doll Girl by Sarah Stasik
August 26, 2021
Oof, all of these stories were just so GOOD.
Dust Dancer
This was a good story to open on, because it got my heart pumping and that ending was so emotional. I liked the motifs of dust throughout, and the characters were set up so well, the ending made me want a full novel!
Lightning in a Bottle
This was another great one! I loved the unique world-building, and the characters were so memorable and hilarious. Cora and Benjamin's banter was delightful and genuine and the ending made me smile.
One More Day
DANG this one really pulled at my heartstrings. It was dark, grim, and awful, but there is so much hope in that ending that I couldn't help but smile. The nameless warrior has quickly become one of my favorite characters from this collection. I would read an entire novel about him and his world.
Spirit of the Jaguar
The world-building was just fascinating! The Spanish culture mixed with the rain forest was a very interesting choice. I liked Jesenia's character, though I wish there would've been more interaction with her brother Desi, so we could see more of their bond. Mari was a nice character too!
Storms of Poseidon
If nothing else, read this for Zach lol. His wise-cracking, sarcastic attitude was my favorite part of this story. The world-building in this one was extremely well done. I loved the alien species and their culture; it was creative and something I hadn't seen before.
The Revealing
This was such a cute one! I loved Alvero, he was so genuine and funny, just wanting to do his best and support his community. The ending was a fun ride and I would definitely love to know more about this world.
The Guardian's Melody
SO SAD. But also so hopeful, towards the end! I loved the sharply written characters and fascinating world-building. I almost wish we could have explored even more of the creepy forest, seen what other creatures could be lurking there. But it was fantastic nonetheless.
The Heart of a Shadow
EEE TRACEY'S STORY. I absolutely adored it. The characters, the world-building, the themes, it was all so solid and fascinating. And that ending! So disastrously sad, but hopeful at the same time! I WANT A FULL NOVEL.
Drift
What really sells this story are the characters. They were so. good. I loved their witty banter; these are old friends and I love that we get to see that so clearly. The action was tight and well-written, and I would love to follow these characters wherever they might go!
The Ugly Crone
Such a fascinating idea! I don't want to spoil it, but I loved the entire premise and the ending was surprising and sad. But again, there's a little glimmer of hope, which I always appreciate. The characters were diverse and well-written too!
The Plague Dragon
Tobias and George's relationship is what I live for XD Their exasperation with each other, their banter, all of it. It's clear they've been knight and squire for quite a while, and I loved being able to see that. I almost wish Tobias had been in the story more, but it was still a really great read.
Dreams and Nightmares
This was fantastic! It had the makings for a full length epic fantasy novel, and I would totally love to explore this world more. The characters were interesting, but I wish we had gotten to see them more fully developed, especially the Voran. And for some reason, I was picturing the main character, Kelsai, as a boy at first? Whoops XD But I really loved this one!
Hold
SO GOOD. Such a powerful message of being optimistic and hopeful, I just loved it! The characters were all very well done and felt genuine. Prosper's undying hope was so refreshing to see, and the ending was so fitting.
The Night Beasts
EEE SAVANNAH'S STORY. It was SO GOOD. I loved the concept of the Night Beasts and Evana's bravery astounds me. The creepy forest was a perfect setting for this story, and I loved the ending so, so much.
One Foot in the Grave
Can this be a full novel? No, never mind, a full series? Because this concept is SO FASCINATING. I want to see these characters interact more and go on wacky adventures. The world-building has me so intrigued, I need to see more!
After the War
OH WOW this was sad. Such a sense of dread and anguish is portrayed so vividly, and it cut right to the heart. The ending is what sold me though. There is so much hope in those last few paragraphs and I want Keegan to succeed.
Storms of the Heart
The ending of this one was very mysterious and vague, but I think that works well with the misty, uncertain feel of the story. The characters were strong and well-written, and I liked the world-building, especially of Haverton.
The Switch
This feels like the beginning of an awesome adventure, and I would read a whole novel about it gladly. The characters were real and the emotion was raw. I liked the world-building, though I wish there would've been more of it. And Brantley is just the sweetest thing and should be protected at all costs.
The Doll Girl
CAN THIS BE A TV SHOW. BECAUSE. AGH. THIS CONCEPT. I LOVE IT. The characters! The world-building! The drama! It's all so fascinating and well done! Please, I need more.
A Place Among the Stars
This was so bittersweet! Halley and Miranda's relationship with each other is very genuine and well-written. I was so surprised by Miranda's decision at the end, and I applaud her for her compassion. It was a wonderful way to close this excellent collection.
I'm so sad this had to end! All of the stories were beautiful and fascinating in their own ways. I sincerely hope that HAVOK does another collection like this in the future!
Dust Dancer
This was a good story to open on, because it got my heart pumping and that ending was so emotional. I liked the motifs of dust throughout, and the characters were set up so well, the ending made me want a full novel!
Lightning in a Bottle
This was another great one! I loved the unique world-building, and the characters were so memorable and hilarious. Cora and Benjamin's banter was delightful and genuine and the ending made me smile.
One More Day
DANG this one really pulled at my heartstrings. It was dark, grim, and awful, but there is so much hope in that ending that I couldn't help but smile. The nameless warrior has quickly become one of my favorite characters from this collection. I would read an entire novel about him and his world.
Spirit of the Jaguar
The world-building was just fascinating! The Spanish culture mixed with the rain forest was a very interesting choice. I liked Jesenia's character, though I wish there would've been more interaction with her brother Desi, so we could see more of their bond. Mari was a nice character too!
Storms of Poseidon
If nothing else, read this for Zach lol. His wise-cracking, sarcastic attitude was my favorite part of this story. The world-building in this one was extremely well done. I loved the alien species and their culture; it was creative and something I hadn't seen before.
The Revealing
This was such a cute one! I loved Alvero, he was so genuine and funny, just wanting to do his best and support his community. The ending was a fun ride and I would definitely love to know more about this world.
The Guardian's Melody
SO SAD. But also so hopeful, towards the end! I loved the sharply written characters and fascinating world-building. I almost wish we could have explored even more of the creepy forest, seen what other creatures could be lurking there. But it was fantastic nonetheless.
The Heart of a Shadow
EEE TRACEY'S STORY. I absolutely adored it. The characters, the world-building, the themes, it was all so solid and fascinating. And that ending! So disastrously sad, but hopeful at the same time! I WANT A FULL NOVEL.
Drift
What really sells this story are the characters. They were so. good. I loved their witty banter; these are old friends and I love that we get to see that so clearly. The action was tight and well-written, and I would love to follow these characters wherever they might go!
The Ugly Crone
Such a fascinating idea! I don't want to spoil it, but I loved the entire premise and the ending was surprising and sad. But again, there's a little glimmer of hope, which I always appreciate. The characters were diverse and well-written too!
The Plague Dragon
Tobias and George's relationship is what I live for XD Their exasperation with each other, their banter, all of it. It's clear they've been knight and squire for quite a while, and I loved being able to see that. I almost wish Tobias had been in the story more, but it was still a really great read.
Dreams and Nightmares
This was fantastic! It had the makings for a full length epic fantasy novel, and I would totally love to explore this world more. The characters were interesting, but I wish we had gotten to see them more fully developed, especially the Voran. And for some reason, I was picturing the main character, Kelsai, as a boy at first? Whoops XD But I really loved this one!
Hold
SO GOOD. Such a powerful message of being optimistic and hopeful, I just loved it! The characters were all very well done and felt genuine. Prosper's undying hope was so refreshing to see, and the ending was so fitting.
The Night Beasts
EEE SAVANNAH'S STORY. It was SO GOOD. I loved the concept of the Night Beasts and Evana's bravery astounds me. The creepy forest was a perfect setting for this story, and I loved the ending so, so much.
One Foot in the Grave
Can this be a full novel? No, never mind, a full series? Because this concept is SO FASCINATING. I want to see these characters interact more and go on wacky adventures. The world-building has me so intrigued, I need to see more!
After the War
OH WOW this was sad. Such a sense of dread and anguish is portrayed so vividly, and it cut right to the heart. The ending is what sold me though. There is so much hope in those last few paragraphs and I want Keegan to succeed.
Storms of the Heart
The ending of this one was very mysterious and vague, but I think that works well with the misty, uncertain feel of the story. The characters were strong and well-written, and I liked the world-building, especially of Haverton.
The Switch
This feels like the beginning of an awesome adventure, and I would read a whole novel about it gladly. The characters were real and the emotion was raw. I liked the world-building, though I wish there would've been more of it. And Brantley is just the sweetest thing and should be protected at all costs.
The Doll Girl
CAN THIS BE A TV SHOW. BECAUSE. AGH. THIS CONCEPT. I LOVE IT. The characters! The world-building! The drama! It's all so fascinating and well done! Please, I need more.
A Place Among the Stars
This was so bittersweet! Halley and Miranda's relationship with each other is very genuine and well-written. I was so surprised by Miranda's decision at the end, and I applaud her for her compassion. It was a wonderful way to close this excellent collection.
I'm so sad this had to end! All of the stories were beautiful and fascinating in their own ways. I sincerely hope that HAVOK does another collection like this in the future!
May 1, 2023
Such a good anthology. My personal favorites were “The Doll Girl” (definitely my top) by Sarah Stasik, “The Storms of Poseidon” by Patrick M. Fitzgerald, and “The Heart of a Shadow” by Tracey Dyck, but the whole collection is a breath of fresh air. There were only one or two I didn’t care for. And the reasoning behind the anthology is just amazing. I’m glad so many people came together to support Mary Weber.
I wrote the story “Spirit of the Jaguar” in this collection.
I wrote the story “Spirit of the Jaguar” in this collection.
November 7, 2020
This was a great anthology, with fantastical stories full of light, strength, & hope!
May 5, 2022
I just love this anthology. Every story is so full of heart, and I've always said I just feel like every single author put so much into their contributions, which makes it such an amazing project. My favorite story was The Heart of a Shadow by Tracey Dyck, with some other favorites being One More Day by Clint Hall, The Night Beasts by Savannah Grace, and The Doll Girl by Sarah Stasik. I have a story in this anthology as well, After the War, and it's such a privilege to be included alongside so many other incredible authors and stories. <3
July 30, 2021
A great, diverse collection of short stories with courage, spirit, and heart by talented authors across a range of ages, experiences, and genres.
January 13, 2021
From medieval sword play to futuristic space-faring tales, there is something for everyone. Coming of age stories, battling demonic shadows, and predatory beasts, mental patients with very strange delusions, and lost causes.
These were two of my favorites:
Dust Dancer by Jason C. Joyner
Gabri has a gift. He can make dust dance. It’s the one source of pleasure he can give to his friend, nine-year-old Alina. Gabri and Alina serve cruel masters until repeated beatings become too much to bear.
This is a cautionary tale. Beware being cruel to those in your service. The dust never lies!
One Foot in the Grave by SCE Swayne
A cop struggles against hallucinations and the opinions of mental health professionals as he battles very real demons. No one else sees the reality he sees. Will you see it? Or will you deem him crazy?
The characters in each story were richly drawn and brought to life by master story-tellers. It’s a book worth buying!
August 5, 2025
i'm sure the stories are just fine, but i don't think I am the intended audience.
i'm learning i like nice, long and thick books and this....It wasn’t it.
Some of the stories were beautiful but others ended too quickly and made me feel like the messages they were giving were negative rather than positive.
i'm learning i like nice, long and thick books and this....It wasn’t it.
Some of the stories were beautiful but others ended too quickly and made me feel like the messages they were giving were negative rather than positive.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews