Book cover art for Blue Hour Shadows: A Short Story by Mikael Short. A deep blue, starry night sky with fluffy white clouds and a full glowing moon featuring the silhouette of a cat.
Book cover art for Blue Hour Shadows: A Short Story by Mikael Short. A deep blue, starry night sky with fluffy white clouds and a full glowing moon featuring the silhouette of a cat.

Blue Hour Shadows - A Short Story

$1.11

Be careful what you wish for on Halloween night...

Ten-year-old Thora is a rebellious orphan who wants nothing more than to go trick-or-treating entirely on her own. When she finally gets her wish and wanders away from her foster family, she thinks she's ready for an adventure. But as a young girl who already feels shadows watching her on normal days, she can’t possibly imagine what the blue hour has in store.

Be careful what you wish for on Halloween night...

Ten-year-old Thora is a rebellious orphan who wants nothing more than to go trick-or-treating entirely on her own. When she finally gets her wish and wanders away from her foster family, she thinks she's ready for an adventure. But as a young girl who already feels shadows watching her on normal days, she can’t possibly imagine what the blue hour has in store.

📖 Step Inside the Story:

  • The Premise: A ten-year-old girl seeks independence on Halloween night, only to find that the twilight brings its own secrets and dangers to life.

  • The Magic: Grounded, real-world magic anchored by a treasured crystal bracelet and a mysterious cat who shows up at the perfect time.

  • Perfect For: Readers of all ages who love the nostalgic, adventurous Halloween magic of Hocus Pocus, the spooky charm of Claribel A. Ortega's Ghost Squad, or tales of brave kids conquering the dark.

  • Age Recommendation: Best for ages 8–12, or anyone who is a kid at heart and loves a classic, spooky autumn tale.

  • Length: A cozy, 18-page story (approx. 25-40 minute read). Perfect for a single-sitting escape!

🔍 Sneak Peek: Read the Opening Lines

The day is here. Finally.

I look at my little body in the cracked mirror on the inside of the shared bedroom door. My fingers play with the frayed edges of the nearly too-small black skirt. One update I got to make this year was a new purple blouse with a bow at the neck since the Howards gave each of the kids twelve dollars each for a costume. I could have done without the bow, but the effect is clear with the pointed black hat on the top of my fluffy blonde hair.

I think I make a pretty darn good little witch, if I may say so myself...

Tap "Begin Reading" to download the PDF and read what happens when Thora steps out into the blue hour!

🎧 The Perfect Reading Ritual:

🕯️ Mikael’s Recommendation: Pull up your favorite cozy chair, grab a handful of your favorite Halloween candy, and read this with the lights dimmed low. It's the ultimate autumn treat!

Get Your Copy of Blue Hour Shadows Today

  • The Investment: $1.11

  • The Format: Instant PDF digital download. A quick, enchanting escape perfect for a cozy evening read.

  • The Vibe: Middle-grade magical realism, autumnal mystery, found family, and classic spooky-season thrills.

  • The Connection: An exclusive short story prequel to the upcoming novel, Alpenglow.