THE LAST SMILE IN SUNDER CITY Luke Arnold Want a little noir in your urban fantasy detective fiction? How about a lack of magic in your fantasy? In Sunder City, we have a bleak protagonist by the name of Fetch who doesn’t work for humans and, quite frankly, isn’t the best at taking care of … More Recommended Book: THE LAST SMILE IN SUNDER CITY by Luke Arnold
Today’s two story recommendations both deal with characters struggling against their bleak natures. They end in vastly different ways, a comparison of the directions one can take and the costs either paid or resisted. MR. DEATH by Alix E. Harrow is a story about a reaper who has been recently appointed the position. Still learning … More Recommended Short Fiction: MR. DEATH by Alix E. Harrow & A LIFE MEASURED IN MOONS by Alexandra Hill
RACE THE SANDS Sarah Beth Durst Monster racing! Within the first few words of this novel, you get introduced to an epic sport in this desert fantasy world, one that is both dangerous and hopeful. Our protagonists include Tamra (named after Tamora Pierce) and Raia—the former is a trainer and the latter becomes her trainee. … More Recommended Book: RACE THE SANDS by Sarah Beth Durst
The two stories I’m recommending today have to deal with claiming oneself rather than being or doing what others expect of you. This is particularly true of woman in many societies, where we have been taught that our purpose is to serve, to sacrifice. These stories push against that narrative in delightful ways. CONSOLIDATION by … More Recommended Short Fiction: CONSOLIDATION by Langley Hyde & THE DRAGON MAKER by Amy Clare Fontaine
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