“The Unarmed” by Kathleen McElligott

“The Purge” took place in 2021 . . .

“Murder for Beginners” by Kathleen McElligott

The red brick bungalow on the South Side of Chicago was exactly as I remembered: blue-and-white tile in the kitchen, white metal cabinets, gray-and-pink ceramic in the bathroom . . .

“Bluff Creek” by Kathleen McElligott

My fiancé Jeff offered up his family’s hunting cabin in northern California so I could finish my novel. No phone, Internet, or TV . . .

“Yoga Bitch” by Kathleen McElligott

I’ve maxed out my credit cards. I got fired. I only leave the house for organic food—and yoga . . .

“The Playdate” by Kathleen McElligott

Desperate for adult conversation, I volunteer as a room mom. I’m teamed up with Victoria, whose twins are Drew and Cameron. Victoria’s high maintenance, but she’s fine with the fact that Deshy has two mommies.

Victoria asks if the twins can come over for a playdate while she shops for the day. Deshy has been to their house—now it’s our turn. He’s not thrilled when I tell him . . .