Freely Written: Short Stories From a Simple Prompt
Short stories spark your imagination. Join author Susan Quilty as she uses simple writing prompts to free-write her way into strange, silly, or poignant tales. Biweekly episodes offer new stories. To learn more about Susan and her books, visit SusanQuilty.com. Note: Prior to 2023, every 5th episode featured story commentary instead of a new story.
Night
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Night, Giana contemplates her life as a night walker
Today's prompt was inspired by the change from daylight saving time to standard time. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of perfection an...
Leaf Peeping
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Leaf Peeping, some fall leaves wait for their chance to float to the ground
Today's prompt was inspired by the changing colors of autumn leaves. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of...
Duct Tape
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Duct Tape, Rick fixes his grandmother's house.
Today's prompt was inspired by... something...? I don't remember. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of perfection and encourage writing for fun.
Webs...
Pocket Park
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Pocket Park, Nina discovers a retreat amidst the city
Today's prompt was inspired by a "wooded wander" with my friend Gretchen Schuttte from PeaceinthePause.com. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of...
Talk to Me
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Talk to Me, Lucy and June grow up with the gift of gab
Today's prompt was inspired by all the talking I did at a recent book event. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to...
Back to School
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Back to School, Lilah makes her sister's school lunch.
Today's prompt was inspired by the return of September and another new school year. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of perfection and...
Yeah, No
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Yeah, No, Sawyer starts his first day working with the duplicator.
Today's prompt was inspired by a phrase I've been noticing in many conversations. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of per...
It Takes a Village
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, It Takes a Village, Matthew and Sara take their first vacation together
Today's prompt was inspired by something my teacher said in a recent yoga class. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
And if you want to check out the studio where I practice and teach, visit Sthira Sukham Yoga at ComfortableSteadyYoga.com
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: T...
Street Parking
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Street Parking, an idea looks for a place to land
Today's prompt was inspired by a chat about the available street parking in front of my house. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to le...
The Chosen One
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, The Chosen One, Ted and Mary do a little shopping
Today's prompt was inspired by Buffy the Vampire Slayer. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of perfection and encourage writing for fu...
Reflecting Pool
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Reflecting Pool, Daryl throws a pool party
Today's prompt was inspired by the fiasco that's unfolding at the Reflecting Pool in DC. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of perfection and en...
Touch Grass
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Touch Grass, Beth struggles to balance work and motherhood
Today's prompt was inspired by a brief moment in an old Bewitched episode. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of perfection and en...
Petrichor
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Petrichor, Ed introduces his new dog to his old friend
Today's prompt was inspired by the ongoing rain in Northern Virginia. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of perfection and encourage wr...
Paperweight
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Paperweight, Jane tries to pick up a piece of paper
Today's prompt was inspired by a paperweight we made during a recent trip to Newport, RI. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go...
Road Trip
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Road Trip, Captain Mae Pauly agrees to a new journey
Today's prompt was inspired by the warm weather and an urge to hit the open road. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go...
Sixth Sense
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Sixth Sense, coworkers at a university library have a late-night chat about ESP
Today's prompt was inspired by a recent newsletter topic. If you'd like to sign up for the Grounded in Reality newsletter, find it here: Grounded in Reality with Susan Quilty
If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Su...
Tit for Tat
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Tit for Tat, a teacher tries to impart an important lesson before school lets out for Spring Break
Today's prompt was chosen from a list of common expressions. If you have a suggestion for a writing prompt, please let us know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to...
Watch Out
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Watch Out, the king's men are sent out to explore strange sounds in the forest
Today's prompt was inspired by a recent tornado watch, not to be confused with a tornado warning... which can be really confusing.
Note: If you're looking for ways to speak out about our current situation (in the U.S.), you can check out 50501, Indivisible, and Common Cause. You can also visit 5calls.org to stay up to date on issues and easily contact your representatives.
More a...
Donuts with Grownups
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Donuts with Grownups, Livvy invites her Uncle Mal to a school event.
Today's prompt refers to a fairly common school social event where students can bring a parent or other adult to enjoy doughnuts together before classes begin.
Note: If you're looking for ways to speak out about our current situation (in the U.S.), you can check out 50501, Indivisible, and Common Cause. You can also visit 5calls.org to stay up to date on issues and easily contact your representatives.
Mo...
Millions of Peaches
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Millions of Peaches, Daria and Tommy are learning to survive on their own in their mostly abandoned town
Today's prompt is a phrase from the lyrics of a song that was stuck in my head: Peaches by The Presidents of the United States of America. Anything can be a writing prompt. If you have a suggestion, please let me know!
Note: If you're looking for ways to speak out about our current situation (in the U.S.), you can check out 50501, Indivisible, and Common...
Give an Inch
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Give an Inch, Madame Zara offers words of wisdom at a school's Winter Carnival
Today's prompt was chosen from a list of English idioms. In these challenging times, a short story break may help you step away from everything else and take a little time to nurture yourself.
If you're looking for ways to speak out about our current situation (in the U.S.), you can check out 50501, Indivisible, and Common Cause. You can also visit 5calls.org to stay up to date on i...
Miss the Boat
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Miss the Boat, Tommy and Tabitha hurry to catch a boat to the woodland college
Today's prompt was chosen from a list of English idioms. In these challenging times, a short story break may help you step away from everything else and take a little time to nurture yourself.
If you're looking for ways to speak out about our current situation, you can check out 50501, Indivisible, and Common Cause. Stay safe.
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly wr...
Winter Slumber
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Winter Slumber, Grandad teaches Meredith a gentle lesson
Today's prompt was inspired by the start of 2026. Happy New Year! May you stay safe and see a turn toward better days.
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of perfection and encourage writing for fun.
We...
Gingerbread
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Gingerbread, Penny comes home in time for the family's annual gingerbread contest
Today's prompt was inspired by Sweet Gingerbread Man, a song by Sammy Davis Jr. that always makes me smile.
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of perfection and encourage writing for fun.
Cranberry Sauce
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Cranberry Sauce, Jason learns to make his mom's spicy orange cognac cranberry sauce
Today's prompt was inspired by my favorite part of Thanksgiving dinner: cranberry sauce! For those who celebrate, Happy Thanksgiving!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of perfection and encourage writing for fun.
Take a Hike
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Take a Hike, Emily's friends lend support during her first mountain hike
Today's prompt was inspired by my own recent hike and by stories of my child's recent hike, both with lovely mountain views.
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to let go of perfection and encourage writing for...
Window Washer
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Window Washer, Daisy's new office has a window that could be a benefit or a distraction
Today's prompt was inspired by an afternoon of cleaning my windows (less fun than writing!). If you have a prompt suggestion, please let me know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to le...
Cabin in the Woods
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Cabin in the Woods, three friends enjoy a leisurely break at a very special cabin
Today's prompt was inspired by a recent long weekend with my close friends, Wendy and Jen. If you have a prompt suggestion, please let me know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way to l...
Dream Catcher
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Dream Catcher, Harold shows Molly how to catch and combine wisps of dreams
Today's prompt immediately made me think of an entity that could give dreams to people, though it took a different turn when I started writing. If you have a prompt suggestion, please let me know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing b...
Two-Day Shipping
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Two-Day Shipping, Mary is frustrated with the botched plans of her billionaire boss
Today's prompt came up while I was online shopping before writing. It didn't spark an immediate idea, but I managed to write my way into something that kind of works...? If you have a prompt suggestion, please let me know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written a...
Cut and Paste
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Cut and Paste, friends spend their day off together
Today's prompt is in honor of the very useful cut-and-paste function, something I use quite often. Though the story wanders into weirder territory. If you have a prompt suggestion, please let me know!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly writes novels, including two standalone novels and her YA series: The Psychic Traveler Society. Susan's short stories for Freely Written are created during quick writing breaks and shared as a way t...
Bite the Dust
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Bite the Dust, fairy life is shaped by prophecy
Today's prompt is an idiom that means to die or come to an end. It takes on a very different meaning in this story of life in the fairy world.
If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you!
Spotted Lanternfly
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Spotted Lanternfly, the night foragers are in search of a light source
Today's prompt was inspired by the invasive species that are gaining ground in Virginia and many US states. They're quite pretty insects, if only they weren't damaging crops and trees.
If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Th...
Under the Weather
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Under the Weather, the neighbors are watching
Today's prompt was chosen at random from a list of idioms. Note: the occasional background sounds are thunder from the rainstorm that was raging during recording. It was much louder in person!
If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you!
Go Go Boots
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Go Go Boots, Daria is up for a promotion
Today's prompt was inspired by '60s fashion and the Summer of Self-Love theme at the yoga studio where I teach, Sthira Sukham Yoga.
If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you!
More about Susan Quilty
Five More Minutes
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Five More Minutes, Maisy has a special app that comes with a cost
Today's prompt was inspired by my busy schedule and a frequent wish for just five more minutes... Though not at the cost Maisy is willing to pay.
If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you!
Vintage Vinyl
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story,Vintage Vinyl, a casual party takes a strange turn
Today's prompt was inspired by a recent album purchase, a vintage copy of Louis Armstrong Meets Oscar Peterson.
If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty mainly wri...
The Dishwasher
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, The Dishwasher, a couple skirts a domestic dispute around a familiar topic
Today's prompt was inspired by a recent conversation with some friends about the pros and cons, and ins and outs, of dishwashers.
If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you!
More about Susan Qu...
Cowbirds
Send us Fan Mail
In today's story, Cowbirds, a quarterly convention faces some daring distractions
Today's prompt was inspired by a finch nest in my front door wreath which appears to have been infiltrated by a cowbird egg.
If you enjoy today's story, please share it with your friends and leave a review for Freely Written. You can also send me a prompt suggestion, and I'll be sure to credit you in the episode. Thank you!
More about Susan Quilty
Susan Quilty ma...
Welcome Back
Send us Fan Mail
