Executive Retreat

By Travis Blase

Long days at the office mixed with a drastic need for a better life, brings 11 people together to compete for an executive position within a global company. Their competition begins with next to no problems, but that will not be the case for long. One-by-one disastrous actions lead to unexplained deaths and it's up to each set of remaining survivors to figure out what is the cause. They quickly realize this may not be what they are all looking for in a future career, but is the devastation worth a single person's dream?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Travis Blase
• Release date: Oct 24, 2018
• ISBN: 9780463274415

Travis Blase

I am a writer of horror and psychological thriller short stories, having done so for the last decade or so. From that passion for scary and unsettling tales came my drive to create Surefire Stories which is my motivation to create solid reading material for those interested in the same genre that I enjoy. I try to bring a new and creative style for readers who aren't looking for a two chapter description of a character, but instead want to have a story that is always sending them in different directions. My stories can be gruesome, but for me and other readers of horror it's a staple to the entertainment value I hope to bring. I am a very open person to feedback as I'm always looking for ways to improve my writing styles. While I have a lot of inspirations to my writing when it comes to other authors, I really enjoy the quick thrills of a short story. Many of my writings are inspired from shows like the Twilight Zone and the Outer Limits, but with a much less TV-friendly approach. The story that really jump started my interest in writing these types of literary works is one by Shirley Jackson titled "The Lottery". For those who haven't read it I suggest doing so if you are curious what my writing styles include.

Book preview

Retreat Cover

Executive Retreat

by Travis Blase

A two-story cabin broke up the monotony of the dense forest; shrunken in stature next to the tall pines and spruces jutting from the Earth. A classic log-themed motif gave off the impression of an older, more rustic building, built centuries in the past.

A few sets of lights shone brightly through the various large windows displaying a wide variety of decorative tastes found inside. The front door handle shook slightly before a click unlocked it from it's wood-framed prison. A hand on the knob broke the plane of the cabin as it extended into the well-lit expansive entryway.

Golden rays bled out into the dark treeline and met with the eyes of 11 individuals who caught the return stare of a smiling woman standing immediately inside the front door. Her long, straight brunette hair and boxy business suit adding to her silhouette within the structure.

I'm so glad you all could make it out here tonight, said the cheerful female voice. Why don't you all come on inside and make yourselves comfortable.

The 11 strangers entered and took their attention to the interior of the spectacular cabin. White walls and ceilings were accented with solid oak log trim. A large deer horn chandelier hung in the main room, exposing the second level and a set of stairs behind it.

A small dining room sat off to the opposite side of the stairway and an open kitchen jutted off from it. Near the stairs was a much larger dining room with a large stained wooden table that was well equipped to seat the whole group if need be.

The log theme found a way to be incorporated into every inch of the cabin from the stair's hand rails to the sinks in the bathrooms. Solid wood furniture accented every inch of the living space, adding a bit of style to their normal day-to-day use. It was a lumberjack's dream come true.

Before I forget, I'd like you all to put on your name tags and while we're at it we should probably introduce one another, said the host as she held up a bowl with each of their names written prominently in the center. Once all of the tags had been claimed Kara continued her speech. "I know you all may not know me or each other