Wet Life, a science fiction short story published in Escape Velocity-The Anthology (Adventure Books of Seattle), tells the tale of Marco, a genetically engineered Rattus norvegicus, or brown rat. When Marco escapes from the lab in which he and his companions are being held for research purposes, he meets up with Tomma Sinclair, a Native American journalist who writes for various science magazines. Marco confides to Tomma the sinister workings of those at the facility and their plan to change the human race. He also warns Tomma about the animal kingdom’s decision to form a united front in opposition to humanity.
Available at:
https://www.adventurebooksofseattle.com/escapevelocitymagazine.htm
Inside Out, a science fiction short story published by the ezine NewMyths.com, Issue 12, September 1, 2010, tells the story of Rufus Blackwell, a retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel and Viet Nam veteran who teaches entomology at Black Hills State University. When crops worldwide become decimated by an unknown fungus originating from the Rain Forest, Rufus assembles a team to help disseminate the message being relayed by butterflies throughout the world. What the insects have to say about the invader and how they communicate a solution astounds Rufus. But ever after, the world will never be the same.
Available at:
https://sites.google.com/a/newmyths.com/nmwebsite/fiction/insideout
Mutual Regard, winner of the Maxwell Award from the Dog Writer’s Association of America, was published in the March 2010 issue of Dog Fancy Magazine.
![](https://i0.wp.com/gayleapplegate.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/PC180005.jpg?resize=525%2C394&ssl=1)
Mutual Regard
He sees with eyes beholden to the world behind domestication's door, but gazes far beyond the dusk where twilight sounds awaken all his senses. His ears detect the moon's first step. I wait to see it crest above the hill. His nostrils flare with readiness when distant images arrive. He stands by breezy paths the wild tread... and quivers with alarming scents of predator and prey. I sense no threat amid the calm. What bond formed by his company claims me as his own kin... with life and limb preserved for my defense? What tames the hunter's furrowed brow, the depths of feral instinct, for a place beside me day and night? He lies again... his head between his paws. We sigh. Amid the soothing song of whippoorwill and gentle breeze his softness ruffles like the waves among the field and stream. He turns and smiles the wag I know with all my being. Despite a world apart where keenness rules (the mortal lag perceiving his domain), we meet among a place of need where trust determines friendship with unfettered loyalty.
For a preview of stories I’m currently working on visit my Works in Progress page.