Another Success Story – Past Cranked Anvil Prize Winner Publishes Short Story Collection

We’re delighted to report on the success of another of our former writing prize winners.

In November 2024, Hannah Retallick released her debut collection of literary short stories, called Something Very Human, with Bridge House Publishing.

The Second Prize winning entry from our Jan22 competition, When the Tour Guide Still Smiles, has been included in the collection.

Hannah said: “I wanted to share this news and officially thank Cranked Anvil for the impact it had on my writing life. This was the first time I’d ever made it into the top three, which meant a huge amount to me. I’ve continued to enter competitions and have had more successes, including being Highly Commended in the Bridport Flash Fiction Prize and winning the £2000 Edinburgh Award.”

The collection takes the reader on a journey through life, from the innocence of young voices to the reflections of those seeking meaning as they look back at the paths they’ve taken. Each story captures the very essence of being human. The characters tackle everyday challenges, face inner struggles, navigate familial relationships and friendships, fall in love and out of love, process grief, and reflect on the beautiful fragility of it all.

You can order Hannah’s collection here.

Congratulations, Hannah, from all of us at Cranked Anvil!

---

Now it’s your turn! Check out our writing competitions