Embers of Incense is the mostly free newsletter publication of author Angela Merlo.
Since 2014, Angela has been sharing her fiction with the world—first on Wattpad, then on Amazon. Her short story Mother (now retitled Ancestral) was a national finalist in the 2016 TNT Horror Fiction Contest, placing in the top 35. Her debut novel Devil’s Lake was also a finalist in the 2019 Indies Today Awards.
Angela writes stories that aim to shine light in the darkness—whether through a dark tale with a redemptive ending or a lighthearted comedy like her short story The Frog and the Beast.
While Angela’s faith has always shaped her life and informed her writing, her current work-in-progress, Among Sinners, is her most overtly Christian work to date. Set in a post-collapse future where technology and economies have crumbled, the people of St. Helena, California labor to rebuild their lives, their tools, and their understanding of grace. Told through a series of interwoven short stories with recurring characters and rich biblical allusions, Among Sinners reimagines familiar parables with psychological and spiritual depth.
The first arc draws on the story of the Prodigal Son: Micah Vyrell squanders—and is robbed of—his inheritance in the decaying ruins of San Francisco, only to return home seeking mercy. His older brother, Alaric, must then confront the pride, envy, and hidden addictions that have taken root within him—including his growing obsession with a mysterious video game of dark origin.
“Fairy tales do not tell children the dragons exist. Children already know that dragons exist. Fairy tales tell children the dragons can be killed.” — G.K. Chesterton
Subscribe for free today and gain access to behind-the-scenes insights into my works-in-progress, my reflections on faith and writing, and a sneak peek at my latest project, Among Sinners.
Paid subscribers receive full access to the complete archive of earlier chapters, and their support goes directly toward bringing the finished project to life—ebook, paperback, hardcover, and hopefully an audiobook.
Those who choose to join my Inner Circle will also receive a free signed copy of my debut novel, Devil’s Lake.
