Pen Name:
Helene Senac
Genres:
Flash Fiction
Short Stories
Young Adult
Bio
Helene Senac started her first novel in her early twenties but was interrupted by the vagaries of life and didn’t return to writing until retirement. She is grateful to SouthWest Writers for helping her hone her writing skills. Helene lives in New Mexico and is inspired by its cultural diversity and the natural beauty of the landscape. She writes flash, short fiction and has recently co-authored a YA contemporary novel. Her winning short fiction, “Aloha,” was published in SouthWest Writer’s 2025 anthology Beyond Boundaries. When not writing, she enjoys hiking and spending time with her granddaughter.
Short Stories
Title: Beyond Boundaries (SouthWest Writers 2025 Contest Anthology of Winning Entries)
Published: October 6, 2025
“Aloha” ♦ Third Place, General Short Fiction
A bitter man is offered and rejects redemption.
In Beyond Boundaries, you’ll find adventure, wisdom, whimsy, and finesse. Some of the authors showcased here consider themselves to be professionals of the craft; some consider themselves hobbyists. Some wrote in genres or styles outside of their comfort zones; some revisited familiar waters in search of new treasures. But they all have one thing in common: they had the courage to share their work with the world. The result of their courage is evident in this year’s anthology of winning entries.