Ozark Writers, Inc., in conjunction with Skyward Publishing has compiled a book of short stories, all tied to the Ozarks.  The first volume, Mysteries of the Ozarks, Volume 1, features stories by all 6 members of Ozark Writers, Inc. as well as showcase 13 other stories.  The book is also edited by Ellen Gray Massey.  The second volume, Mysteries of the Ozarks, Volume II, is due out the summer of 2006.

"Mysteries of the Ozarks, Volume 1, as will be the case in all subsequent volumes, is comprised of short stories, suitable for family reading, placed in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.  The stories of this volume are fiction, with the writers showing in print, the beauty of the region in their stories of romance, the intrigue of the Ozarks in their fantasy and adventure tales, and the historical significance of the area in the fictionalized stories of the Ozark Bluff Dwellers or the roles of some Ozark residents during the Civil War.  And, of course, the book would not be complete without a tale or two of supernatural beings dedicated to the folklore that is a part of the Ozarks. 

 "In compiling this and subsequent volumes, we invited published writers with Ozark connections to submit stories for possible inclusion.  In doing so, our only stipulation was that the works be short stories and fit some definition of mystery.  From the submissions, we selected stories from nineteen prolific writers for this first volume.  You will be amazed at the tales.  Enjoy, but be forewarned and selective.  Reading of some selections in the evening, especially on a dark, stormy night, is at your own risk."  Jim Harris, President, Skyward Publishing

Reviews of Mysteries of the Ozarks, Vol. 1

"Move over O. Henry!  The Ozarks short-story writers have arrived!  This is a book of mystery stories written by 19 Ozarks writers.  These are fictional tales, set in the Ozarks, all generously seasoned with that special Ozark-mountain flavor - that subtle quality which has shaped my own life.  This collection is reading appropriate for the entire family.  It is an interesting example of the talent that abounds in 'these here hills' and can be enjoyed by mystery readers everywhere.  Enjoy!"  Robert Page, The Lebanon (MO) Daily Record

Reviews of Mysteries of the Ozarks, Vol. 11

"It's no mystery that makes the second volume of Mysteries of the Ozarks, Vol. 11 work: a remarkable congregation of skilled and talented artists with an almost organic connection to the transcendental beauty and exotic secrets of this uniquely American landscape.  The chilly alps and the castles of Scotland have nothing on the hill country when it comes to story and drama."  Loren D. Estleman, author of Nicotine Kiss and Deborah Moran, author of the Jeff Talbot Antiques Lovers' Mysteries.