15 Comments
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Evelyn K. Brunswick's avatar

That was seriously dark. Although I can imagine a lot of American diners must be like that. Was there any real life inspiration behind this, the setting I mean?

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Garen Marie's avatar

No actual place in mind. More like an amalgamation of a bunch of places: the main street close to my university that had tons of greasy spoons like this, roadside diners that attract a...let's say eclectic...clientele, even IHOPS and Denny's. They always feel like liminal spaces, existing at a crossroads - sometimes literally! Although they definitely aren't all like Mama Bone's place thankfully. Often their beacons in the dark for travelers. A welcome respite from the road. Or a casual place to hang with friends late into the night. And there's plenty of nostalgia around diners here, too. So they're ripe for taking a warm and fuzzy feeling place and turning it on its head.

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Hanna Delaney's avatar

Oh, this was so uncomfortable and creepy. Mama Bone and her sauces. Terrifying.

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Garen Marie's avatar

Thank you so much. Uncomfortable and creepy was definitely the vibe I was going for!

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Scott Roche - he/him's avatar

Daaaaaamn. I want some of that sauce.

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Garen Marie's avatar

Careful what you wish for. ;)

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Scott Roche - he/him's avatar

I didn't say I was gonna be the one to eat it. :D

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Will Boucher's avatar

this is such a brilliant idea. so engrossing and well written

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Garen Marie's avatar

Thank you so much!

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Honeygloom's avatar

Awesome twist on Baba Yaga lore! I really enjoyed it!

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Garen Marie's avatar

Thank you so much!

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Andy Futuro's avatar

In the words of Chelsea from Love is Blind, you made me feel uncomfy.

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Garen Marie's avatar

lol! I'll consider the uncomfy box checked!

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Carrie M-O's avatar

Your short stories always leave me with more questions in a good way! Love the dark and twisted ideas that come from your mind. Love love the darkness and intrigue. Not really craving chicken right now...

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Garen Marie's avatar

Thank you so much, Carrie!! Sorry to ruin your appetite. 😜

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