I’m going to keep this short but (hopefully) sweet, because, let’s face it, the introduction isn’t really what you want to read.
I do just want to take a moment, though, to thank the authors who have so generously committed their work to this cause. All proceeds from the sale of this digital anthology are being donated to support NHS staff and other healthcare workers.
I have been humbled by the response to this project; a glittering array of award-winning authors from science fiction, literary fiction, fantasy, horror, and beyond have combined to create this veritable treasury of high quality reading – enough to keep anyone occupied for many hours. Fifty-three stories. 253,000 words of fiction, including several pieces that are original to this volume or have only previously been available in audio form.
So, to all the authors who have taken part: thank you.
The real thanks, of course, must go to those working in the healthcare service, who are doing such an incredible job during these unprecedented times, often in circumstances that are far from ideal.
This book is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to all of you.
A small gesture, perhaps, but heartfelt. We are forever in your debt.
Ian Whates
Cambridgeshire
April 2020