Fiction Sneak Peek: July 8, 2023 Issue


Welcome to our weekly round-up of the fiction in our latest issue.

Short Stories

Our opening story is by Alison Wassell – “Clearing The Air”. Following the death of her father, Marian has invited her mum to stay, albeit for a short time. But they’ve never got on terribly well, and without Dad as peace maker, can they really get to know each other? Artwork from Pat Gregory (above).

“Two’s Company”, in our next story, but can time mellow one sibling’s feelings towards the other? By Leonora Francis. Artwork, Mandy Murray.

A charity shop find inspires some ‘joie de vivre’ in our next short story by Marie Penman. Artwork by Karen Milne.

Hester’s on holiday, but she’s missing her grown-up children, in Eirin Thompson’s “Time To Get Away”. Artwork. Jim Dewar.

We’re in the 1880s for our next story – “Now You See It”, by Alyson Hilbourne. A new mesmerist is in town, but Rebecca has serious reservations… artwork from Kirk Houston.

Karen has to do something about the garden – and soon! – in Greer Glover’s “Where Flowers Bloom”.

In our final story of the week, one single garment leads many lives! “Shirt Tales”, by Helen Yuretich, features artwork from Michael Thomas.

Serials

In Part Two of “Carving A New Path”, the trip to Bruges promises more surprises for Rae…by H. Johnson-Mack, with illustrations by Kirk Houston.

It’s the final part of Alison Carter’s “Back To The Valley”, and Lily has an important decision to make. But should she think with her heart, or her head? Illustrations by Andre Leonard.

Look out for a new serial beginning next week.

Series

Tanya wonders if a trumpet is suitable for the library of things, in Stefania Hartley’s “Welcome To Quayside”…

…whilst over on Riverside, what surprising news has left George taken aback? 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!