Carniepunk: A Duet with Darkness

This urban fantasy short story, part of the Carniepunk anthology, follows Melanie St. James, a disillusioned former Julliard fiddler, who joins a traveling carnival in search of freedom. As she competes for a magical violin that opens Doors to the CrossRoads, Melanie faces a dangerous bargain that could cost her more than she anticipates. The story explores themes of risk, choice, and the power of music in a vividly fantastical setting.