Janine A. Southard crafts speculative fiction, blending her work in videogame projects with a keen literary eye. Her extensive academic journey, far from being a detraction, informs her uniquely structured narratives and imaginative worlds. Readers can expect stories that are both intellectually stimulating and deeply engaging, exploring the boundaries of possibility with a distinctive voice.
This collection offers a unique blend of mystery and speculative fiction set against a holiday backdrop. Readers will encounter a mobster Santa, time-traveling detectives, and elements of folklore like Krampus and eerie bell spirits. With its mix of Victorian villages and genetic intrigue, this anthology serves as an unconventional alternative to traditional holiday stories, making it a captivating choice for those seeking something different during the festive season.
There are many ways to be a heroine. Princess and swordswoman, lawyer and motorcyclist, scholar and barbarian: there are many ways to be a heroine. In this anthology, seventeen authors find new ways to pair one weapon-wielding woman and one whose strengths lie in softer skills. "Which is more powerful, the warrior or the gentlewoman?" these stories ask. And the answer is inevitably, "Both, working together!" Herein, you'll find duels and smugglers, dance battles and danger noodles, and even a new Swordspoint story! From big names and bold new voices, these stories are fun, clever, and always positive about the power of love. Ellen Kushner * Aliette de Bodard * Yoon Ha Lee * Neon Yang * Jennifer Mace * Django Wexler * Freya Marske * Claire Bartlett * K.A. Doore * Alison Tam * Ann LeBlanc * Cara Patterson * Chris Wolfgang * Elaine McIonyn * Elizabeth Davis * S.K. Terentiev * Kaitlyn Zivanovich