Welcome to our weekly look at the fiction in our latest issue.
This week’s issue is on sale Wednesday, April 26.
Short Stories
Rachel has volunteered to write a proposal for a new community garden – all because she has a crush on the chairman of the community council! This week’s opening story, “Try Plan B”, is by Moira Gee. Artwork, Jim Dewar.
After 35 happy years together, Jools can’t believe things have come to this…“About Time”, by Becca Robin, features artwork by Sarah Holliday.
A mum and daughter with opposite personalities find common ground when it comes to a child’s party. “Skills And Thrills”, by Gabrielle Mullarkey, is illustrated by Mandy Dixon.
Helen and her cousin are on a poignant trip to Verona, in “A Taste Of Italy”, by Sara Partington.
We go back to the 1950s for our next story – where exams and college aren’t for the likes of Jessie, according to her mother. Alison Wassell’s “Swept Away” is illustrated by Pat Gregory (above).
Fay can’t quite bring herself to get rid of a dressing gown with so many memories, in Moira Smyth’s “Worn Again”. Artwork, Mandy Murray.
Our final story of this issue is Eirin Thompson’s “Oh, Brother!”. Lindy’s planning a 50th birthday celebration for her husband and invites his brother, not thinking he’ll come over from New Zealand. But when he arrives, the equilibrium of the house is upset… Artwork, Sarah Holliday.
Serials
In Part Three of “The House On The Shore”, by Lydia Jones, Enid is looking forward to celebrating her birthday – on a boat! Artwork, Kirk Houston.
It’s the penultimate instalment of “The Winds Of Fortune”, this week, where Harry’s affection for Pearl is clear – and Minnie couldn’t be more delighted. Set in 1929 and written by Katie Ashmore.
Series
Tanya and Giacomo can use the basement, at last – but they aren’t alone, in “Welcome To Quayside”, by Stefania Hartley.
Have Mary and Ruby made things worse for Mike and Anna? Find out in “Riverside”, by Glenda Young.
Lucy Crichton Better known as “Fiction Editor Lucy”, I am always on the look-out for the very best short stories, poems and pocket novels. As well as sourcing enjoyable content, I enjoy working with our established contributors, encouraging new talent, and celebrating 155 years of “Friend” fiction!
