EATON — For fans of mystery and suspense, the Preble County District Library’s Eaton Branch will be seeking the best local short fiction writing in anticipation of a visit from local mystery author Heather Webber in October.

Entry sheets will be available at the Eaton Branch and on the library’s website when the competition starts on Sept. 19. Writers will choose from one of three prompts to start the story.

Each story must also include a reference to a classic or modern novel or character. Maximum length of entries is 2,000 words. All entries must be printed on regular letter-sized paper and appropriate for general audiences.

The stories will be judged on plot, pacing, characters, dialogue, style, and uniqueness. All entries are due to the Eaton Library by Wednesday, Oct. 19, along with the completed entry form. Judges will read the stories and announce the winner of a mystery-themed prize pack after mystery author Heather Webber’s appearance and book signing at the Eaton Library on Saturday, Oct. 22 at 1 p.m.

If you don’t fancy yourself a writer, the library will also have two-minute mysteries to solve, with the same deadline. We’ll choose a winner from correct entries at the same event with Heather Webber on Oct. 22.