Fiction Sneak Peek: January 7, 2023 Issue


Welcome to our first issue of 2023! Let’s look at the fiction inside.

Seven Short Stories

Our opening story is Eirin Thompson’s “Waiting In The Wings”, and one little boy’s family take a trip to the pantomime on Twelfth Night. Artwork from Kirk Houston (above).

Christine Sutton’s “Mending Fences” is next. Can Sophie help rebuild a friendship between her gran and her neighbour? Illustration by Manon Gandiolle.

We have a debut author, next – a warm welcome to Moira Smyth. Donna’s crossing her fingers that her new grandchild won’t be named anything too outlandish…

Time to “Blow Away The Cobwebs” next, and although January is a time for fresh starts, it’s not always easy. Written by Gwen Rollinson. Illustration from Ruth Blair.

“It’s All Relative” in Amanda Antonio’s family story, with artwork by Ged Fay.

In Sara Partington’s “Let’s Get Quizzical”, which team will come out on top? Artwork from Sailesh Thakrar.

In our final story of this issue, spending a day by the river is just the thing to keep three lively children entertained. Written by Jan Snook.

Serials

A new serial starts today – “For The Love Of Family”, by Laura Tapper. Nancy’s new job at the manor is a step up from the fishing village where she’s grown up…set in the 1900s, with artwork from Sailesh Thakrar.

It’s the final part of Mark Neilson’s “Return To Petershaven”, and after a frightening experience, Chrissie and Jonathan begin to see things in a new light. Artwork from Kirk Houston.

Look out for a new serial beginning new week.

Series

In Jan Snook’s “Wedding Designs”, is Chloe’s own wedding distracting her from her clients’ big days?

While over on “Riverside”, how will Chelsea’s poems go down at the Ship Inn? By Glenda Young.

Lucy Crichton

Fiction Editor Lucy is always on the look-out for the very best short stories, poems and pocket novels. As well as sourcing enjoyable content, she enjoys working with our established contributors, encouraging new talent, and celebrating 155 years of 'Friend' fiction!