fantasy Archives -

The Raven Tower by Ann Leckie

This story is a unique rewriting of Hamlet. The God of the silent forest and Mother of the Silent and the Raven and his bird rule Raden. Hill is a third God whose physical presence is a stone. The figurehead – the Raven’s Lease only has power and authority from the Raven because he isContinue reading “The Raven Tower by Ann Leckie”

Who Fears Death by Nnedi Okorafor

This dystopian book is set in the African desert and is a world fantasy award winner. It weaves a meandering story of magic, great emotional power and horror. Lyrical and clear prose propel the reader forward. Rape as a war crime is brought into stark focus as the story unfolds. Najeeba is raped and findsContinue reading “Who Fears Death by Nnedi Okorafor”

The Cure for Death by Lightning by Gail Anderson-Dargatz

Told through the eyes of 15-year-old Beth, living in rural Canada, this novel is an intense sensory experience set during World War Two. She befriends the local Indian kids and the rich spiritual and natural world they share enables her to survive the sexual abuse and increasing violence her PTSD suffering father imposes on her.Continue reading “The Cure for Death by Lightning by Gail Anderson-Dargatz”

Middle Game by Seanan McGuire

This is a cross between Brave New World and mythology. The author’s lyrical prose slowly interlaces a malevolent drama with avarice. Power is apotheosized with children as causalities. The story begins as a slow burn that concludes in an explosion that provides hope and light. The main protagonist, James Reed, is a Frankenstein like creationContinue reading “Middle Game by Seanan McGuire”