Before I Wake

Author's Note

I'm making my announcement a little late, but this is going to be my entry for the ONC 2023!

My prompt is: A group of high school students discovers they have the ability to enter and manipulate their own dreams, but as they use their powers for personal gain, they soon realize that their actions in the dream world have real-life consequences and must learn to control their powers before it's too late.

First, a few things before we get started.

TRIGGER WARNING:

If you have previously read my work, you're aware that I love the horror and thriller genres, but I keep my stories strictly PG-13. I'm not above a bit of body horror, but you won't find anything here that involves suicide or self-harm. I leave those subjects for writers much more well-versed in how to handle those sensitive subjects.

That being said, this is a horror story, so there will be instances of violence, killing, unexplained paranormal occurrences, and, yes, even a little blood from time to time. Nothing less than what you would normally expect from this genre.

If this isn't your cup of tea, then that's fine. I'm also writing a fun little romantic thriller, Broken Memories, that might be more to your liking. If, however, what I've described here sounds like the fun scary thrill ride I intend it to be, then make sure to add my story and stay tuned. I think you might just enjoy what's creeping around the next corner.

A famous writer once offered a very important piece of advice. (Spoiler Alert: It was Stephen King) " Kill your darlings, kill your darlings, even when it kills your egocentric little scribbler's heart, kill your darlings. " Well, killing my darlings is exactly what I intend to do here.

Also, let me mention that I am very much invested in this story. No matter the outcome of the ONC, I will not be leaving it unfinished.

That pretty much covers it for now. Remember to add my story or check back for future updates. The first chapters of "Before I Wake" will be posted soon!