This isn't one continuous story, but a treasure chest of them. Lucy Maud Montgomery Short Stories, 1909 to 1922 collects over forty tales Montgomery wrote for magazines during a period when she was already a bestselling author. The settings jump from the familiar farms of Prince Edward Island to lonely coastal villages and grand, slightly spooky houses. The plots are quick and clever: a woman makes a drastic choice to escape a dull future, a family secret unravels over a pot of jam, a stubborn old man learns a lesson from a child.

Why You Should Read It

This book shows a different side of Montgomery. While her novels wrap you in cozy warmth, these stories often have a sharper edge. She expertly captures a moment of regret, a flash of jealousy, or a sudden, life-changing decision. Her heroines aren't always sweet; sometimes they're proud, cunning, or quietly desperate. You see her genius in miniature—how she can build a whole world and break your heart in just a few pages. It's a masterclass in short-form storytelling.

Final Verdict

Perfect for Montgomery fans who want to go beyond Anne and Emily, and ideal for anyone who loves classic short stories with heart and a hint of wit. If you enjoy the pacing of O. Henry or the emotional insight of Katherine Mansfield, but with a distinctly Canadian flavor, you'll devour this. Keep it on your nightstand for when you need a beautiful, complete escape before bed.