Not So Long Ago

Book excerpt: Not So Long Ago is a collection of short stories set in a Sussex town in the 1960s. The interlocking themes are of chance meetings and changing lives and all stories cluster around one group of characters Here we read about Jos’s and Annette’s meeting at the swimming club, which ignites a long relationship. Melissa and Fred collide when she knocks him over while riding her bike and both stumble towards a relationship. Alfredo and Maria meet at school and stay together, despite arguments. Chris, artistic with wealthy parents, falls for Dora, but on seeing her in a pub is beaten up by her boyfriend. By the end, all the characters have progressed in life and in relationships. This new collection will appeal to readers who want stories that engage them, are prepared for sudden plot twists and enjoy a nostalgic 60s setting. Not So Long Ago offers readers the narrative intensity of the short story with the character development associated with a novel.