Welcome to our quick run-through of the fiction in this week’s issue.
Short Stories
In our opening story this week, Kit has a cleaning job, but not everyone values her skills. “A Clean Break” by Alison Carter, features artwork from Ruth Blair.
A charity-shop vase boomerangs back and forth in “One Door Closes”, by Alison Wassell. Illustrated by Philip Crabb.
Beating a “Personal Best” is the plan, in Sammi Montgomery’s short story…
…while two women at the beach learn a lot from each other despite being polar opposites. “Moonrise, Sunset”, is by Fran Tracey.
We’re in the 1950s for our next story, Katie’s Ashmore’s “Better Safe Than Sorry”. When there’s a burglary in the office, Gloria is under suspicion – can she piece the clues together to prove her innocence? Artwork from Andre Leonard.
New neighbours are up to something – but Peter and Mary are on the case! “Prying Eyes”, by Marian Myers, features artwork by Helen Welsh.
Amelia and Dan have grown apart, and a rushed date night makes Amelia wonder what the future holds. “Talk To Me” is written by Jacqui Cooper.
Serials
In Part Two of “The Sapphire Peacock”, Isabella is drawn to revisit the clock-maker’s shop. Deborah Siepmann’s seven-part serial is illustrated by Helen Welsh (above).
Alexis is beginning to wonder if Caitlin still has feelings for her ex-husband, in Part Three of “Friends And Neighbours”, by Beth Watson. Artwork by Gerard Fay.
Series
Tanya’s neighbours could all use some help, in “Welcome To Quayside”, by Stefania Hartley.
And pancakes are just the thing to give Ruby a lift, 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!
