Kristine Kathryn Rusch is an author who masterfully navigates genres, from gripping mysteries to sprawling science fiction and compelling romances. Her writing is characterized by an ability to draw readers into intricate plots and profound emotions. Rusch crafts worlds that are both believable and captivating, with characters that resonate deeply. Her extensive body of work demonstrates her versatility and profound understanding of the craft.
The rugged coastline of Seavy County is a realm of mystery, where violent storms can erupt unexpectedly and unearthly beings appear at twilight. The locals are aware of a rare enchantment that permeates their lives, yet they choose to keep these extraordinary occurrences to themselves. This setting creates a backdrop rich in supernatural intrigue and the unspoken bond between the residents and the enigmatic forces at play in their environment.
The narrative follows Captain Tory Sabin, who is acutely aware of the perils associated with the anacapa drive, a technology that allows ships to traverse foldspace. This journey is fraught with risk, as some vessels vanish without a trace, along with their crews. The story delves into the mysteries and dangers of space travel, exploring themes of loss and the unknown.
Featuring a diverse array of stories, this magazine showcases both established and emerging voices in the realms of science fiction and fantasy. Each issue offers imaginative narratives that explore complex themes, innovative concepts, and rich world-building. Readers can expect a blend of short fiction, thought-provoking essays, and stunning artwork, making it a vibrant platform for genre enthusiasts. The magazine aims to challenge perceptions and inspire creativity within the sci-fi and fantasy communities.
The Klingon Empire remains the Federation's most fearsome and uneasy ally, but can any human fully understand the heart and soul of a true Klingon warrior? During crucial negotiations on Deep Space Nine™. Gowron, leader of the Klingon High Council, tests human understanding of the Klingon way by sharing the powerful story of one warrior's quest for honor... Pok is a young Klingon caught up in the dangerous complexities of clan politics. When his father is murdered in his own home on the day of Pok's Rite of Ascension, Pok must find the assassin and close the circle of vengeance. But as he searches for the truth amidst strange aliens and treacherous friends, Pok discovers that every day can be a good day to die and that only his own warrior's training stands between him and the business end of d'k tahg knife!
Steffie makes her living as a coolhunter-someone who discovers an interesting look and makes it fashion, often overnight. She's escaped her stifling upbringing, but her sister KD has not. KD, genetically altered to remain a child, asks Steffie to help her run away from home, and Steffie just might try. A Locus Award finalist, and winner of the Science Fiction Age Reader's Choice Award. "This is a fascinating and thought-provoking novella and perfectly exemplifies one of the reasons I enjoy Rusch's writing as much as I do. Her stories often unfold with a breezy, entertaining flow, leading one to expect something fuzzy and warm. Except at its heart, her fiction has a deep emotional edge that, while it might seem at odds with the storytelling style, turns out to be perfectly suited to it, paying off her readers with rich dividends." -Charles de Lint, The Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction
Set against a backdrop of generational conflict, this narrative explores the intense struggle for power through a richly woven tale. The author crafts a compelling saga filled with intricate characters and sweeping themes, delving into the sacrifices made in the pursuit of dominance. The writing is described as powerful, drawing readers into a thrilling journey that spans multiple eras and showcases the complexities of ambition and legacy.
When Roderigo and Izzy form a group to stop the Angel of Death from taking more innocent lives, they realize they need help. One by one, Roderigo recruits people who see the Angel, who know its evil magic, who suffer from the damage the Angel wreaks. When Roderigo enlists the newest recruit-a war-damaged sniper-he achieves the formula for the group's ultimate success. But he might have just doomed the group to the ultimate failure. A gut-wrenching story about love, loss, and the powerful inevitability of grief. "Rusch is a great storyteller" -RT Book Reviews
The story follows Mae, the chief linguist aboard the Ivoire, as she navigates a diplomatic mission to Ukhanda. Her interactions with the Quurzod escalate into conflict, resulting in a battle that damages the ship's anacapa drive. This malfunction leaves the Ivoire trapped in foldspace, setting the stage for a tense and unpredictable journey. The narrative explores themes of communication, diplomacy, and the consequences of conflict in an intricate sci-fi setting.
Set against the backdrop of an archaeological dig near the enigmatic Spires of Denon, this novella introduces Meklos Verr, a hired guard who becomes entangled with the determined Gabrielle Reese, the dig's leader. As he navigates the complexities of their partnership, Verr also encounters cave divers with hidden agendas, adding layers of intrigue and tension to the story. The narrative expands the universe established in Diving into the Wreck, exploring themes of trust and the unknown.
Set in a near-future Earth, this science fiction saga explores profound questions about our understanding of the solar system and humanity's role within it. With a blend of advanced astronomy, thrilling action sequences, and intense drama, it pushes the boundaries of belief and invites readers to reconsider their perspectives on the universe.