The Paper Garden (and other stories)

A collection of 12 speculative fiction and horror stories by Sally Quilford. Each story is perfect for reading in one sitting.Includes award winning and previously published work alongside never before seen stories.Keep Off The GrassKarel lives in a future where the robots and machinary aren't as evil as SF stories would have us believe. They just do what they're programmed to do... Story came 2nd in The British Fantasy Society's Short Story comp.NetworkWhen Rom inherits a computer from his friend, Data, he's thrilled. Even more so when he finds a new game. But the only way to win is to become the computer... Previously published in Thirteen magazine.The Unknown SoldierAn armchair general plays with his tin soldiers in the attic. As he glorifies war, he soon finds that even he can't remain untouched by the bloodshed.Then I Went Home For My TeaGeorge writes to the editor of the newspaper constantly, especially since the aliens landed. The letters detail his trials and tribulations, from missing out on his benefit payments to life under the yoke of the Martians.Invitation to the DanceWhen a doctor is asked to help the daughter of his late friend, he presumes she's insane. But his life and hers are more bound together than he realises. Previously published in Bridge House's Going Places collectionThe Six GrandfathersIn a post-apocalyptic landscape, death is an every day occurrence. But when a fertile young woman dies, no one can ignore it.The Window to the SoulValerie is determined to outdo Cissy in The Adult Toy Society (no, not those type of adult toys!) But is a working robot going just a little too far? Previously published by That's Life Fast FictionA Thousand and One NightsWhen Darryl is injured in a drunken car crash, he finds himself in a hospital from which he cannot escape. Previously published in Bridge House's Scream anthology.The Paper GardenWhen Kitty is convicted of killing her two children, she is sent to prison and then to The Wilderness for a Biblical punishment. Whilst there, she finds powers she did not know she possessed. Meanwhile, on the outside, Anne Sullivan searches for answers and her own means of escape. Shortlisted in the Aeon award and commended in Dark Tales Competition and published in Dark Tales magazine.The TollboothThe tollbooth across the river has been in the family for years, but the means taken to own it leave them cursed.The All-Night DinerA cannibal is on the loose in the village. As Paula hides in the diner, she thinks over the events that led her there.The Piano ManWhen yet another lover leaves Melody after she has given up everything for him, she finds solace in a club she never noticed before. Previously published in The Weekly News.

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