"Refried Cliches: A Five-Course Meal" by Mike Schultz

A story made up of 'vignettes' set around the items of a five course meal. While most of the 'items' are satisfying, one or two items look like they could do with a little more 'cooking' to bring out more 'taste'.

• Read from Fantasy and Science Fiction, August 2005 issue

"Gypsy Tail Wind" by Mary Rosenblum

A tale set in the outer reaches of the Solar System about a girl who may be involved in intrigues she is unaware of. Sent to meet a representative of the gypsies, who are apparently genetic experts, she is then drugged, along with the representative, in an attempt to kidnap the gypsy. Only her wits, and the unusual connection she builds up with gypsy, may save her is the end against her kidnappers.

• Read from Fantasy and Science Fiction, August 2005 issue

"Maze of Trees" by Claudia O'Keefe

An unsettling fantasy story about a young woman who is forced to stay in a particular forest location due to her 'gift' and 'connection' with the forest which she uses to protect the forest from developers and humanity. But when she meets a young man who attracts her, the situation changes and she must decide whether to continue the relationship of to force him away. As events show, love is powerful but is the sacrifice of love worth it?

• Read from Fantasy and Science Fiction, August 2005 issue

"Thwarting Jabbi Gloond" by Matthew Hughes

An interesting detective story that is also about the start of the career of Henghis Hapthorn, who has a instinct for figuring out the truth. In this case, it is the truth behind the mysterious Jabbi Gloond who appears one day at the estate of his friend and suddenly has the run of his house. Investigating this particular mystery would raise some awful truths about his friend's father and the source of his wealth.

• Read from Fantasy and Science Fiction, August 2005 issue