Welcome to our weekly peek at the fiction in our latest issue!
This week, we’re looking at issue dated August 5, 2023 – on sale Wednesday, August 2.
Short Stories
Our opening story is set in 1961, where Marly is travelling alone on a cruise liner – but she’s possibly not quite as alone as she thought! “Come Sail Away”, by Alison Carter, features artwork from Ruth Blair (above).
When 19-year-old Madison’s parents decide to go travelling, Madison must decide which grandma to live with – but she doesn’t want to hurt either of them… Alison Wassell’s “The Right Choice” features artwork from Manon Gandiolle.
Jasmine meets her boyfriend’s children, but will she find herself “Passing The Twin Test”? By Alyson Hilbourne.
A train journey helps passengers think things through, in Gabrielle Mullarkey’s “Wheels Are Turning”. Illustration, Sarah Holliday.
Evelyn relocates after a change of circumstances, but will she find happiness? Find out in “Splash Of Colour”, by Amanda Antonio. Artwork, Ruth Blair.
10-year-old Ava wants to start collecting things – like her Granny does with her racks of teaspoons. But there’s just one problem – what to collect?! By Eirin Thompson, “My Favourite Things” is illustrated by Ruth Blair.
In this week’s final story, they’re “Hiring At The Cat Cafe”, where Maxine needs to make sure she finds the right person to join the crew. By Suzanne Ross Jones.
Serials
A new five-part serial set in 1840 begins today – Kitty-Lydia Dye’s “Sabotage At The Big Top”, where there’s something strange going on at Opal And Gold’s Travelling Circus. With artwork throughout from David Young.
In Part Two of Kate Blackadder’s “Footsteps In Ashbridge”, Sarah is starting to settle in – and she hopes to make friends in the community… Artwork, Ruth Blair.
Series
It’s the penultimate instalment of Stefania Hartley’s “Welcome To Quayside”, and it’s finally time for the library to open!
While in Glenda Young’s “Riverside”, will Susan get the children out for a picnic with Mary?
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!
