Well, I think 'A Good Man is Hard to Find' by Flannery O'Connor could also be considered among the popular short fiction stories in 2014. This story is full of dark humor and religious undertones. It has characters that are both complex and grotesque in a way. The grandmother in the story, for instance, is a very well - developed character with her own set of beliefs and prejudices. Through the events that unfold, like the encounter with the Misfit, it makes the readers think about morality, sin, and redemption.
One popular short fiction story from 2014 could be 'The Lottery' by Shirley Jackson. It's a thought - provoking story that shows how blindly following traditions can lead to horrible outcomes.