Fiction Sneak Peek: April 15, 2023 Issue


Hello, everyone – hope you had a nice Easter.

Welcome to this week’s sneak peek at the fiction in our latest issue, available Wednesday, April 12.

Seven Short Stories

Our opening story is “A Storm In A Tea Set”, by Amanda Antonio. A beautiful china tea set means so much to Brenda and her sisters, but in the wake of their mother’s passing, will it become the cause of a fall–out? Illustration from Jim Dewar (above).

Lynda Franklin’s “A Place Of Our Own” is next, and although Jo and Jonathan have viewed plenty of houses, none of them seems quite the right fit. Artwork, Ruth Blair.

Frances joins a gym but feels distinctly out of her comfort zone, in “All Shapes And Sizes”, by Eirin Thompson.

Can June open her heart to another dog, after losing her faithful friend? “After Daisy”, by Moira Smyth, is illustrated by Ged Fay.

We’re in 1982 for our next story – “Met Your Match”, by Wendy Janes. One mum fears she can’t compare to her daughter’s new mother-in-law…artwork from Mandy Dixon.

Grace’s granddaughter is not happy about being “Back For Good”. Find out why in Tony Domaille’s short story, illustrated by Manon Gandiolle.

Chalk-and-cheese friends Nula and Kate walk and talk in the beautiful Derbyshire countryside in our final story, “Let’s Talk About It”. By Rebecca Holmes, with artwork from Martin Baines.

Serials

A brand-new five-part serial begins today! Enid loves St Joan, and doesn’t want its peaceful atmosphere to change…“The House On The Shore” is written by Lydia Jones, and features illustrations from Kirk Houston.

It’s Part Three of “The Winds Of Fortune” this week, and Minnie can tell that Ivor is interested in her – but she still carries a flame for Theo. Set in 1929, our six-part serial is written for us by Katie Ashmore.

Series

Tanya rallies the neighbours to welcome a new family, in “Welcome To Quayside”, by Stefania Hartley…

…while over on Glenda Young’s “Riverside”, Magic Ian’s tricks are making Jim suspicious!

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!