Fiction Sneak Peek: May 27, 2023 Issue


Shutterstock / Boyan Dimitrov ©

Welcome to our weekly peek at the fiction in our latest issue.

This week, we’re looking at our issue dated May 27, 2023 – which will be on sale from Wednesday, May 24.

Short Stories

Our opener this week is “Special Delivery”, by Teresa Ashby. Will life be different for Charlie, when his baby brother arrives? Artwork from Jim Dewar.

It’s “A Rainy Day”, which isn’t helping Marianne see things in a positive light…By Alison Carter, it’s illustrated by Martin Baines.

Steph hopes some time away will help her heal, in Angela Petch’s “Beyond The Horizon”. Artwork, Manon Gandiolle.

Being a twin has led Chris into some rather novel situations, in Alison Wassell’s “Double Trouble”…

…and we go back in time to 1824, for our next story -”The Turn Of The Tide”, where a stretch of coast has beauty and danger in equal measure. By Becca Robin, with an image from Shutterstock picture library (above).

Nina can’t stop thinking about the man she met at the airport, in Eirin Thompson’s “Long Haul”. Illustrated by Mandy Dixon.

And our final short story this week is Gillian Harvey’s “Up Our Street”, where Sara will protect her beloved tree at any cost. Artwork, Ruth Blair.

Serials

In Part Two of Sue Cook’s “Hearts On Fire”, Julia is sure Mark will open to her, in his own time. Artwork from Gerard Fay.

And in Part Three of Becca Robin’s “The Sweet Shop Mystery”, maybe Vera’s disguise has worked a little too well…illustrations throughout by Mandy Dixon.

Series

Are Tanya and Giacomo being set up by their daughters? “Welcome To Quayside” is written by Stefania Hartley.

While over on “Riverside”, why has Jim been so down in the dumps, lately? 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!