Fiction Preview: August 26, 2023 Issue


Let’s look at all the fiction we have ready to read in issue-dated August 26 – on sale Wednesday, August 23.

Stories

Our opening story is “A House Divided”, by Teresa Ashby, where warring estate agents must find a way to work together if they’re to compete against the big boys. Illustration, Karen Milne (above).

In “Pitch Perfect”, talented young singer, Josh is worried about what will happen when his voice breaks. By Leonora Francis, with artwork by Mandy Dixon.

A fiftieth birthday celebration is in the offing, in Gabrielle Mullarkey’s “A Gift Worth Giving”.

Daisy and her flower-named friends are all close – until one decides to leave all she’s known behind. “Friendship And Flowers” is by Lynda Franklin.

We’re in the 1930s for our next story, where an aunt discovers her niece is being blackmailed – and it simply will not do! “Lady Beatrice Investigates”, by Alyson Hilbourne, features artwork by Gerard Fay.

A trip to an antiques fair has surprising results, in Sally Waterbury’s “More Than Memories”. Artwork, Martin Baines.

Our final story for this issue is “A Stitch In Time”, by Laura Tapper, where newly-retired Keith has time to face some new challenges. Artwork, Martin Baines.

Serials

It’s the penultimate instalment of “Sabotage At The Big Top”, and Adio knows this one conversation with Opal could make or break his future career with the circus…by Kitty-Lydia Dye, it’s illustrated by David Young.

In the final instalment of “Footsteps In Ashbridge”, it’s time for Sarah and Duncan to have a heart-to-heart. Written by Kate Blackadder, with illustrations by Ruth Blair.

Look out for a new serial beginning next week.

Series

Will all the prep lead to success in Tash’s first class? “The Show’s The Thing” is by Lydia Jones.

While in Glenda Young’s “Riverside”, will Mike and George ever see eye to eye?

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!