Over 182 "Contemporary Fiction" Writing Prompts

A small coastal town holds a secret tradition: when the sea turns a peculiar shade of purple, a portal opens to an enchanted underwater kingdom. Write a story about a local librarian who, while trying to unravel the mystery behind her fatherโ€™s disappearance, accidentally falls through the portal on the eve of the phenomenon.

Fiction
Contemporary Fiction
Fantasy

Dive into the life of a protagonist who begins receiving dated, handwritten letters in their mailbox with advice about upcoming life events. These events begin to occur with uncanny accuracy. Explore the protagonist's quest to find the author and the impact of the foretold events.

Fiction
Contemporary Fiction

At 45, a woman finds out she is adopted after the death of her supposed biological mother. Seeking clarity and connections, she sets out on a journey to find her biological family, navigating the complexities of new relationships and the challenges of understanding her identity in the midst of midlife.

Fiction
Contemporary Fiction
Women's Fiction

During a massive blackout that engulfs the city for several days, strangers trapped in an elevator of a high-rise apartment building share stories, secrets, and eventually, form unexpected bonds. Explore the dynamics and transformations within this confined space.

Fiction
Contemporary Fiction
Urban

Imagine a neighborhood that holds an annual, secret event that is not spoken of outside its bounds. Write about a newcomer's first experience of this event, and the unexpected ways in which it alters their view of their new home and neighbors.

Fiction
Contemporary Fiction
Short Stories

Your protagonist finds a forgotten letter tucked inside a library book that was due decades ago. The letter is poignant and filled with unfulfilled promises. Explore the impact this discovery has on them, and how it connects them to the unknown author of the letter.

Fiction
Contemporary Fiction
Literary

A small coastal town is known for its peculiar weather and the myths surrounding it. Every full moon, the sea glows brightly, attracting tourists and supernatural creatures alike. Write from the perspective of a local who is discovering they might be the key to understanding why this phenomenon occurs.

Fiction
Contemporary Fiction
Fantasy

Two strangers at a wedding bond over their mutual dislike of overly extravagant ceremonies. They decide to duck out early and find themselves at a hole-in-the-wall coffee shop. As the night unfolds, they share their dreams and disappointments, discovering more about each other and themselves than they expected.

Fiction
Contemporary Fiction
Romance

Describe a character who is an expert at repairing things, from antique clocks to broken relationships. Dive deep into a narrative where they confront something personal that is beyond their ability to fix, exploring themes of acceptance and letting go.

Fiction
Contemporary Fiction
Literary

Describe the unconventional romance between a proclaimed minimalist and an avid collector. How do they influence each other's views on life and possessions, and what interesting compromises do they come to while moving in together?

Fiction
Contemporary Fiction
Romance

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