Editor's note​​

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As we transition into spring, which always marks my birthday, I find myself reflecting on my personal growth. With this past year behind me, I am reminded of how grateful I am to be in this position. A year ago today, I had no idea what direction to take, and Underbelly Press was just a seed, waiting to be planted and take root. It’s been a true privilege to witness it evolve with each issue, and I hope that as I step into this new year of my life, the magazine will continue to grow and flourish alongside me.

 

With the release of Issue 3, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has been part of this journey. Your support, whether through submissions, reading, or sharing our work, has made this magazine what it is today. Every piece that we received left an impression, and putting this issue together is a privilege I never could have fathomed. This issue is packed with a stunning variety of pieces that explore the many facets of the human experience. These works have stirred something in me, and I hope they do the same for you. I don’t have many words to describe them, as I want you to experience them for yourselves and fall in love with them just as we have. 

 

Looking back, it’s hard to believe how far we’ve come. As always, I’m incredibly grateful to Raine and Ellen who have continuously supported Underbelly Press and made it all possible. 

 

When faced with rejection, keep going. Keep writing, creating, and doing what you love. In a world full of challenges, unapologetically carve out your own space. Keep believing in your voice, because it's worth hearing.

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With gratitude,​

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- Lucy Huddleston, Editor-in-Chief

Contributors​​

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​EDITORS - Lucy Huddleston & Raine Dalton

​COVER IMAGE - Steven Darbyshire

DESIGN - Lucy Huddleston & Ellen Darbyshire

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SHORT FICTION - A.R. Meadowcroft ☆ Alison Wassell ☆ Andie Weber ☆ Andrea G ☆ Delphine Gauthier-Georgakopoulos ☆ Heather Walker ☆ James Curtis ☆ Karen Arnold ☆ Laura Jeannerette ☆Madeleine Armstrong ☆ Nicola Golding ☆ Norah Blakedon ☆ Peter Harris ☆ Sam Szanto ☆ Sreelekha Chatterjee ☆ Tracie Adams

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POETRY - Allen Means ☆ Ashlee Craft ☆ Brandon Shane ☆ Cara Pleym ☆ Claire Poshusta ☆ Danielle Marie Cahill ☆ David Kenny ☆ Eloy Jacobsen ☆ Jennifer Jones ☆ M.S. Blues ☆ Michael Roque ☆ Olabimpe Adedamola ☆ Shikha Sawhney Lamba ☆ Wendy Westley

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ART - Drew Haney ☆ Laurie Avadis ☆ Masoroju Corny ☆ Gugulethu Ndlalani ☆ Joao Coelho ☆ Whiskey Radish