Happy New Year from all in Writers Enjoying Words. A little tale to start your year off with a smile – Dressing Up by Dorothy Alkhafaji

Another new book from David Hiscox, also set in Compton Mullberry.

Treacle is the charming tale of a determined female weasel who has embarked on a journey to find a new home. Forced to leave her previous dwelling due to unforeseen circumstances, Treacle’s quest for shelter leads her to a beautiful and serene churchyard cemetery of the seemingly idyllic rural community of Compton Mullberry, nestled in the heart of Somerset,

The cemetery, with its lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere, offers Treacle the perfect refuge. Among the many interesting monuments, one particularly striking figure catches her eye, a large pink crying angel that stands watch over the graves, its presence both poignant and comforting. Intrigued by her surroundings, Treacle begins to explore the cemetery, discovering not only the stories of those who are buried there but also the lives of the visitors who come to pay their respects.

Through her gentle and inquisitive nature, Treacle learns about the rich history and enduring legacies of the people of Compton Mullberry. Each gravestone and monument holds a tale, from the touching love story of a couple who weathered the storms of life together to the bravery of a local hero whose actions saved many during a time of crisis. The monuments reflect the complex range of connections that thread through the community.

As Treacle settles into her new home, she forms a unique bond with the living and the departed. She observes from a distance the visitors who come to reflect on their memories and experiences, Her unwavering curiosity introduces her to unexpected encounters.

“Treacle” is an unusual yet heart-warming tale of discovery, connection, and the enduring power of nature. It beautifully captures the essence of life in a small rural village, where every life, no matter how seemingly insignificant, is treasured and remembered. Through Treacle’s eyes, readers are invited to reflect on the importance of remembering the past, cherishing the present, and finding beauty in the most unexpected places.

Treacle is available from Amazon.

A new book by David Hiscox from Writers Enjoying Words. This was originally inspired by one of our writing prompts – What’s that smell?, and it grew from there. The writing group at the time all have their names used for a character – though Dave assured us that the characters are not based on us 🙂

Sheila, now in her twilight years, resides in a retirement complex in Limehouse, London. Her days are filled with quiet reflection, the hum of distant memories stirring within her. These memories transport her back to a pivotal chapter of her life—during World War II, when she was evacuated to the quaint, rural community of Compton Mullberry in Somersetshire.

“Compton Mullberry” is a poignant and evocative exploration of Sheila’s memories, fragmented and flawed as they may be. The narrative weaves through the confusion of her recollections, painting a vivid yet sometimes unclear picture of the past.

In the tranquil countryside, timid young Sheila found comfort and friendship among the local children, and she forged bonds with several adults who played crucial roles in maintaining the community’s spirit during the hardships of war.

As Sheila reminisces, the reader is introduced to a cast of characters who were instrumental in shaping her wartime experience and later life.

Through Sheila’s eyes, we witness the small triumphs and heartaches of Compton Mullberry’s residents as they navigate the uncertainties of wartime Britain. The narrative shifts seamlessly between past and present, reflecting the inconsistencies and gaps in Sheila’s memory. At times, events blur together or fade into vagueness, underscoring the imperfection of human recollection.

Despite the imperfections in her memory, the essence of Compton Mullberry and its people remains strong in Sheila’s heart. The book captures the enduring impact of those years on her life, the friendships forged, and the resilience of a community bound by mutual support and hope.

As the story unfolds, readers are invited to piece together the fragments of Sheila’s past, understanding that while memories may be flawed, the emotions and connections they evoke are timeless and profound.

“Compton Mullberry” is an unusual approach to a familiar story, of love, life and consequences that have endured and developed throughout one woman’s life.

Compton Mullberry is available from Amazon.

A quieter reflection this month. In memoriam by Julie Waller

A monologue to enjoy this time. What would you think if you met her?

Mrs Duffy by Patricia Stowell

Dorothy Al-Khafaji celebrated the launch of her latest book Moving On – Sometimes Love is not Enough in The Wellfield Bookshop, Cardiff with U3A members, family and other friends. Moving On is available on Amazon for Kindle or in paperback

The lastest novel from Dorothy Al-Khafaji, published 16 February 2024.

Ageing Maggie Johnson relives past events, some happy, others funny or sad, in her dreams.

As a teenager in the fifties, Maggie dreams of a fulfilling career, but it isn’t always easy with a demanding husband and two growing sons to care for.

For a time, she puts her dreams to one side to help husband Michael achieve his own ambitions, but his recurring infidelity forces her to recognise that sometimes love is not enough.

Their divorce frees her to make her own choices and she finds it’s not too late to pursue some of her teenage dreams. In doing so she finds a different kind of love with a faithful partner who always encourages and supports her, wherever those dreams may take her.

Moving On is available on Amazon for Kindle or in paperback

At the begining of things there was only blackness and then vibration. The Shadow Fairy tells the charming story of how a kind fairy came to give colours and shadows to the waiting universe.

The Shadow Fairy by David Hiscox is available from Amazon in paperback or for Kindle

The third D I Mandy Wilde novel by Jacqueline Harrett

Published 5th December 2023 Diamond Books ISBN 1915649323

A dead teenager.

A dying mother.

A missing baby.

DI Mandy Wilde and her team have a mystery to solve.

With her pregnant twin sister, Joy, back in Cardiff the tension isn’t all work based. Life has become more complicated.

Progress on the case is slow. Too slow. Mandy is worried. She’s lumbered with a detective from another team who has a grudge against her. His obstruction is unwelcome.

Can things get worse? Of course they can. The return of her ex fiancé, now a DCI, doesn’t help. She needs to prove she can solve this case – despite the odds.

The results of the 2023 competition have been announced. There were over 400 entries across the UK. The top 13 finalists are available to read at https://www.u3a.org.uk/learning/short-story-competition-2023 Noelle Bryant from Writers Enjoying Words was delighted to be placed in the shortlist.