This issue, in addition to great tales from Acquiring Editors Michael Bracken and Barb Goffman, we also have an original mystery from Kathleen Marple Kalb, a modern dark fantasy from John S. Glasby, and much, much more.Here’s the complete lineup—Mysteries / Suspense / Adventure:“Mother’s Day Tea,” by Ashley-Ruth M. Bernier [Michael Bracken Presents short story]At a seemingly innocent kindergarten Mother’s...

Arthur Stringer (1874 – 1950) was a Canadian novelist, screenwriter, and poet who later moved to the United States. He published 45 works of fiction and 15 other books, in addition to writing numerous filmscripts and articles. Stringer was popular in his day for his crime fiction and his wilderness adventures, but he wrote in many genres, from social realism (his "Prairie" trilogy, 1915–1921) to psychological fiction (The Wine of Life (1921). He even wrote early science fi...

Splash!... That's me, Matilda Anne! That's me falling plump into the pool of matrimony before I've had time to fall in love! And oh, Matilda Anne, Matilda Anne, I've got to talk to you! You may be six thousand miles away, but still you've got to be my safety-valve. I'd blow up and explode if I didn't express myself to some one. For it's so lonesome out here I could go and commune with the gophers. This isn't a twenty-part letter, my dear, and it isn't a diary. It's the coral ring I'm cutti...

"The Prairie Wife" tells the story of a woman named Marcia Day, who moves to the Canadian prairies with her husband, Dan Devine, in search of a new life and opportunities.Set against the backdrop of the vast and untamed Canadian wilderness, the novel explores the challenges and triumphs faced by Marcia as she adapts to life on the prairie. As the story unfolds, Marcia encounters various hardships, including harsh weather conditions, isolation, and conflicts with neighboring settlers. Despi...

The protagonist of the story is Carter Brant, a successful New York businessman suffering from severe insomnia. His inability to sleep is not just a minor inconvenience; it has become a debilitating condition that affects every aspect of his life. Desperate for a solution, Brant tries various remedies and consults numerous doctors, but nothing seems to help.The novel begins with Brant reaching the breaking point. His sleeplessness leads to a series of erratic behaviors and a deepening sens...

In "Phantom Wires," Stringer crafts a tale of intrigue and suspense set in the world of early telecommunication. The story revolves around the mysterious disappearance of a young woman named Fannie Norton, who vanishes under suspicious circumstances while working as a telegraph operator. As the investigation unfolds, the protagonist, Jimmie Dale, a resourceful and adventurous man, becomes entangled in a web of secrets, deceit, and danger.The novel delves into themes of technology, communic...

In "Never-Fail Blake," Stringer likely tells the story of the eponymous character, who may be portrayed as a resourceful and determined individual. The narrative may revolve around Blake's endeavors and challenges as he navigates through various situations, demonstrating his resilience and ability to overcome obstacles.Arthur Stringer's writing often incorporates elements of adventure, romance, and suspense, and "Never-Fail Blake" is expected to reflect these themes. The novel may offer re...

"The Silver Poppy" is a romantic adventure novel set against the backdrop of the Canadian wilderness during the early 20th century. The story follows the protagonist, Terry Mackaye, a young man who is drawn to the allure of the northern forests and rivers.Terry Mackaye is depicted as a passionate and adventurous soul, seeking to escape the confines of urban life and find his place in the rugged wilderness. He embarks on a journey to the remote regions of Canada, where he hopes to discover ...

"The Wire Tappers" is a suspenseful novel centered around the world of wiretapping and surveillance. The story follows characters involved in the practice of wiretapping, which involves secretly listening to and recording telephone conversations. This activity is often associated with espionage, crime, and intrigue.The plot typically revolves around a complex web of deceit, as the characters become entangled in a series of events driven by the information obtained through wiretapping. As t...

"Twin Tales" is noted for its engaging storytelling and the way it combines different thematic elements in a single volume. Stringer’s writing captures a range of experiences and observations, from personal and social dynamics to the allure of art and mystery.The collection showcases Stringer's versatility and his ability to weave compelling narratives across different genres.

"The Prairie Child" follows the story of its protagonist, a young woman named Margo, who grows up on the vast and rugged plains of the Canadian prairie. Raised by her father, a rugged homesteader, Margo develops a deep love for the land and a fierce independence that sets her apart from others.As Margo matures, she finds herself torn between two worlds: the wild beauty of the prairie and the expectations of society. When a handsome stranger arrives in town, Margo's life is forever changed ...

In "The Prairie Mother," Stringer likely explores themes related to frontier life, family, and the challenges of settlement in the American West or Canadian Prairies. The title suggests a focus on a central female character who plays a significant role in the narrative, possibly as a mother figure or matriarch within a pioneer family.The plot may revolve around the experiences of the main characters as they navigate the hardships and triumphs of life on the prairie. Stringer may depict the...