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The Chathrand Voyage #Thasha's cure for cabin fever
Unfettered III: New Tales By Masters of Fantasy
Lacking health insurance when he was diagnosed with cancer, Shawn Speakman asked friends in the science fiction and fantasy writing community to donate short stories he could use to counter mounting medical debt. The result was Unfettered, an anthology offering tales from some of the best authors working today.
Now, in Unfettered III, Speakman continues to pay forward the aid he received, raising money to combat medical debt for SF&F artists and authors. He has gathered together a great mix of new and favorite writers―free to write what they like―the result a powerful new anthology perfect for all readers.
Be haunted by the chilling ghost story of Megan Lindholm. Revisit the world of the Magicians with Lev Grossman. Return to Osten Ard in an epic first look at Tad Williams’s Empire of Grass. Callie Bates shares a heartfelt story of magical loss and gain. Cross the sands of the desert planet Dune with Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson. Travel the Ways with Robert Jordan & Brandon Sanderson. And many more stories, all wondrous alongside beautiful art by Todd Lockwood and Kaitlund Zupanic!
Unfettered III is sure to astound with the magic bound within its pages. All the while raising money for a charitable cause.
Because protecting our artists and authors is as important as the stories they tell.
Now, in Unfettered III, Speakman continues to pay forward the aid he received, raising money to combat medical debt for SF&F artists and authors. He has gathered together a great mix of new and favorite writers―free to write what they like―the result a powerful new anthology perfect for all readers.
Be haunted by the chilling ghost story of Megan Lindholm. Revisit the world of the Magicians with Lev Grossman. Return to Osten Ard in an epic first look at Tad Williams’s Empire of Grass. Callie Bates shares a heartfelt story of magical loss and gain. Cross the sands of the desert planet Dune with Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson. Travel the Ways with Robert Jordan & Brandon Sanderson. And many more stories, all wondrous alongside beautiful art by Todd Lockwood and Kaitlund Zupanic!
Unfettered III is sure to astound with the magic bound within its pages. All the while raising money for a charitable cause.
Because protecting our artists and authors is as important as the stories they tell.
768 pages, Hardcover
First published March 19, 2019
About the author
Shawn Speakman
27 books704 followersShawn Speakman grew up in the beautiful wilds of Washington State near a volcano and surrounded by old-growth forests filled with magic. After moving to Seattle to attend the University of Washington, he befriended New York Times best-selling fantasy author Terry Brooks and became his webmaster, leading to an enchanted life surrounded by words.
He was a manager at one of the largest Barnes & Noble Booksellers in the country for many years and now owns the online bookstore The Signed Page, manages the websites for several authors, and is a freelance writer for Random House.
He also contributed the annotations for The Annotated Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks, published in 2012.
Shawn is a cancer survivor, knows angel fire east, and lives in Seattle, Washington.
He was a manager at one of the largest Barnes & Noble Booksellers in the country for many years and now owns the online bookstore The Signed Page, manages the websites for several authors, and is a freelance writer for Random House.
He also contributed the annotations for The Annotated Sword of Shannara by Terry Brooks, published in 2012.
Shawn is a cancer survivor, knows angel fire east, and lives in Seattle, Washington.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
February 14, 2020
Una raccolta di racconti mediamente buona.
Qualche passaggio a vuoto, qualche racconto molto bello... un po' quello che succede quasi sempre in situazioni del genere.
Ventisette racconti più o meno lunghi, una sfilza di autori: alcuni li conoscevo, altri li avevo sentiti nominare, diversi mi erano totalmente ignoti.
Il problema principale di questa raccolta è comunque che diversi racconti non solo sono legati alle serie degli autori coinvolti -cosa che spesso è positiva, se fatti bene sono autoconclusivi, comprensibili dai lettori che incontrano per la prima volta quel mondo e anzi riescono a far nascere interesse per gli altri libri dell'autore- ma sono proprio parti di libri. Frammenti di capitoli di libri inseriti all'interno di serie più ampie, magari prime bozze, o brani poi tolti dall'ultimo editing, o brani del libro.
E questo non va bene. Certo, mi può piacere se conosco la serie, ma visto che nella maggior parte dei casi si tratta di autori che non conosco, l'effetto è quantomeno straniante.
D'altro canto, lodevole l'iniziativa dietro queste raccolte, ben radicata nella realtà americana in cui o ti riesci a pagare un'assicurazione privata, o a seconda di cosa ti succede sei praticamente abbandonato a te stesso.
Qualche passaggio a vuoto, qualche racconto molto bello... un po' quello che succede quasi sempre in situazioni del genere.
Ventisette racconti più o meno lunghi, una sfilza di autori: alcuni li conoscevo, altri li avevo sentiti nominare, diversi mi erano totalmente ignoti.
Il problema principale di questa raccolta è comunque che diversi racconti non solo sono legati alle serie degli autori coinvolti -cosa che spesso è positiva, se fatti bene sono autoconclusivi, comprensibili dai lettori che incontrano per la prima volta quel mondo e anzi riescono a far nascere interesse per gli altri libri dell'autore- ma sono proprio parti di libri. Frammenti di capitoli di libri inseriti all'interno di serie più ampie, magari prime bozze, o brani poi tolti dall'ultimo editing, o brani del libro.
E questo non va bene. Certo, mi può piacere se conosco la serie, ma visto che nella maggior parte dei casi si tratta di autori che non conosco, l'effetto è quantomeno straniante.
D'altro canto, lodevole l'iniziativa dietro queste raccolte, ben radicata nella realtà americana in cui o ti riesci a pagare un'assicurazione privata, o a seconda di cosa ti succede sei praticamente abbandonato a te stesso.
Want to read
June 22, 2022I've got a story in this!
A Snorri story - Snorri being a major character in The Red Queen's War trilogy. Prince of Fools / The Liar's Key / The Wheel of Osheim
A fine anthology full of great authors.
You can now also get my story, A Thousand Years, with a Nona story and a Jalan story: The Devil You Know / The Hero of Aral Pass / A Thousand Years.
Join my Patreon
Join my 3-emails-a-year mailing list #prizes
A Snorri story - Snorri being a major character in The Red Queen's War trilogy. Prince of Fools / The Liar's Key / The Wheel of Osheim
A fine anthology full of great authors.
You can now also get my story, A Thousand Years, with a Nona story and a Jalan story: The Devil You Know / The Hero of Aral Pass / A Thousand Years.
Join my Patreon
Join my 3-emails-a-year mailing list #prizes
February 3, 2020
A collection of short stories, some far too long, and far too many dependent on the reader already knowing and caring about an existing series.
"The Heart Box"--Callie Bates. After his family dies in a car accident, a man removes his heart and becomes an emotionless immortal. Eventually a single mother and her child move in next door and he decides to reclaim his heart and live again. Fine but did nothing for me.
"Everybody Said It Would Hurt"--Lev Grossman. A section cut out from the 3rd book in the Magicians trilogy. I don't know these characters or what various clues mean (Quentin's watch?) so a good amount of this passed me by. Still, I liked Plum and her magical experiments, and I bet fans of the Magicians will be thrilled to read this.
"A Thousand Years"--Mark Lawrence. Vikings go on a troll hunt. Along the way, clever but weak Olaf proves his worth, while Snorri realizes he has to be a father to his son. Well enough written that I intend to seek out the larger series this relates to.
"Among a Throng of Bilious Octogenarians"--Delilah S. Dawson. Thirteen pages of "Barthur" (a cutesey version of Arthur) trying to get the Elders' blessing for his quest and them mishearing him. Thirteen pages of this.
"Blood of the Sardaukar"--Brian Herbert & Kevin J Anderson. A clunkily written short story about a Sardaukar colonel who has I think one line in Dune.
"Allanon's Quest"--Terry Brooks. A prequel short story to The Sword of Shannara. As boring and by-the-numbers generic fantasy as the rest of the series it comes from.
"Kneeling Before Jupiter"--David Anthony Durham. Roman nobles get turned into vampires when they reach adulthood. Tedious because the main character doesn't understand what's going on but the reader immediately does, but still has to come along for the multitude of pages it takes him to figure it out.
"Stripes in the Sunset"--Seanan McGuire. Extinct species start being born to existing animal species. Meanwhile, human children stop being born. McGuire is always good for a cool concept, and this story is just long enough to deliver on it without overstaying its welcome.
"All That Glitters"--Marc Turner. Two thieves try to get off an island with a flask of dragon's blood. A fun slice of adventure.
"The Heir Apparent"--John Gwynne. Prequel short story about a character from The Faithful and the Fallen, a series I have not read. Rhin is competent and merciless, which I appreciate.
"Dancing on the Edge"--Deborah A Wolf. Prequel short story about a character from The Dragon's Legacy, another series I have not read. Yaela and her sister are slaves in a pitiless desert. They do whatever they need to do to survive, but at last only one of them can escape. I liked the writing and really liked that the only ways to survive daylight in their location are to live underground or to dance a cloak of shadows upon oneself. I'm intrigued!
"Prologue: Second Book of the Evertide"--Todd Lockwood. Short story from another fantasy series I have not read. Two guys and their dragons fight to the death. I don't know why and I didn't know the characters, so I had no feelings whatsoever about the fight or who won. Adding a bit of personality to the characters, or explanation for why it mattered whether Qorru or Magha won, could've made this story interesting to people who haven't already read The Summer Dragon.
"Thasha's Cure for Cabin Fever"--Robert V.S. Redick. A short story set in yet another fantasy series I have not read. Written in a convoluted way such that it's hard to tell which dialog or actions belong to which characters.
"How Not to Invade a Country"--Anna Stephens. A short story set in yet another fantasy series I have not read, but this one actually provides characterization and context, plus a nice amount of wry humor in the narrative voice. Crys has been demoted and given a crappy posting in a boring area--luckily or unluckily enough, his commander makes enough foolish choices that he's forced into some heroics. This story made me want to read more by Stephens.
"The Paper Man"--Peter Orullian. A would-be writer is visited by a tiny man made out of paper, and slowly realizes the price he must pay for good writing. I dunno, the idea is fine but this just felt like it took a while to get anywhere. I think I'm just too disinterested in ~being a writer~ to care about this story.
"Merchants Have Maxims"--Cat Rambo. Short story set in a fantasy series I have not read. I got bored and didn't finish this.
"Of Anchor Chains and Slow Refrains and Light Long Lost in Darkness"--Ken Scholes. Prequel set in a fantasy series I have not read. Childhood friends King Rudolfo and Gregoric have a pirate adventure and prove their loyalty to each other yet again.
"Second Chances"--Megan Lindholm. A crew member on a reality show is sensitive to ghosts, which helps when the latest house the cast is going to rehab turns out to be haunted. I liked this (not least because it wasn't yet another short story set in a medieval pseudo-European fantasy series).
"The Hidden"--Tad Williams. Excerpt from a fantasy series I haven't read. Some creepy imagery!
"Throwdown"--Scott Sigler. Set in a sort of Western post-apocalyptic setting. Didn't care for it.
"Sidekick"--Carrie Vaughn. A secretary wakes up in a hospital after an accident she doesn't remember. The hospital staff seem weirdly focused on asking her questions about her boss. Great fun!
"Hawkeye"--Patrick Swenson. An investigator who can talk to hawks is tasked with finding out what happened to a priceless gem. Contains way too many infodumps and the last 6 pages are just the main character tediously explaining the mystery (which is both very simple and overly complicated--the twist that the queen is an Exchanger instead of a Changer is a good one, but the endless Exchanges that are recounted are completely unnecessary to both plot and reader).
"The Spectral Sword"--Ramon Terrell. A short story set in another fantasy series I haven't read. A man gets a magic sword. Didn't hold my interest.
"Gold Light"--Anna Smith Spark. Short story in another fantasy series I haven't read. Creepy but beautiful, a bit like Tanith Lee. A princess watches her brother the king talk to a dragon, and realizes what she must do.
"The Stone Golem of Qual'Jom"--Jason Denzel. A stone golem lives for eons. I liked its point of view, particularly in the first half when it's figuring out its earthly form.
"A Fire Within the Ways"--Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson. A cut novella (it's 70 pages) from the final book in the Wheel of Time series. I stopped caring about this series years ago and skipped this entirely.
"Seven"--Naomi Novik. GodDAMN this was a good story. A potter's wife takes up pottery to make ends meet, and is so good she's given the honor of working with bone clay--clay so pure and white that all yearn to work with it, but that inevitably kills those who do so. Reminded me of LeGuin, a bit, in the pairing of imagination and grounded characters who have to worry about feeding their children.
"The Fire-Risen Ash"--Shawn Speakman. Overcomplicated fantasy.
"The Heart Box"--Callie Bates. After his family dies in a car accident, a man removes his heart and becomes an emotionless immortal. Eventually a single mother and her child move in next door and he decides to reclaim his heart and live again. Fine but did nothing for me.
"Everybody Said It Would Hurt"--Lev Grossman. A section cut out from the 3rd book in the Magicians trilogy. I don't know these characters or what various clues mean (Quentin's watch?) so a good amount of this passed me by. Still, I liked Plum and her magical experiments, and I bet fans of the Magicians will be thrilled to read this.
"A Thousand Years"--Mark Lawrence. Vikings go on a troll hunt. Along the way, clever but weak Olaf proves his worth, while Snorri realizes he has to be a father to his son. Well enough written that I intend to seek out the larger series this relates to.
"Among a Throng of Bilious Octogenarians"--Delilah S. Dawson. Thirteen pages of "Barthur" (a cutesey version of Arthur) trying to get the Elders' blessing for his quest and them mishearing him. Thirteen pages of this.
"Blood of the Sardaukar"--Brian Herbert & Kevin J Anderson. A clunkily written short story about a Sardaukar colonel who has I think one line in Dune.
"Allanon's Quest"--Terry Brooks. A prequel short story to The Sword of Shannara. As boring and by-the-numbers generic fantasy as the rest of the series it comes from.
"Kneeling Before Jupiter"--David Anthony Durham. Roman nobles get turned into vampires when they reach adulthood. Tedious because the main character doesn't understand what's going on but the reader immediately does, but still has to come along for the multitude of pages it takes him to figure it out.
"Stripes in the Sunset"--Seanan McGuire. Extinct species start being born to existing animal species. Meanwhile, human children stop being born. McGuire is always good for a cool concept, and this story is just long enough to deliver on it without overstaying its welcome.
"All That Glitters"--Marc Turner. Two thieves try to get off an island with a flask of dragon's blood. A fun slice of adventure.
"The Heir Apparent"--John Gwynne. Prequel short story about a character from The Faithful and the Fallen, a series I have not read. Rhin is competent and merciless, which I appreciate.
"Dancing on the Edge"--Deborah A Wolf. Prequel short story about a character from The Dragon's Legacy, another series I have not read. Yaela and her sister are slaves in a pitiless desert. They do whatever they need to do to survive, but at last only one of them can escape. I liked the writing and really liked that the only ways to survive daylight in their location are to live underground or to dance a cloak of shadows upon oneself. I'm intrigued!
"Prologue: Second Book of the Evertide"--Todd Lockwood. Short story from another fantasy series I have not read. Two guys and their dragons fight to the death. I don't know why and I didn't know the characters, so I had no feelings whatsoever about the fight or who won. Adding a bit of personality to the characters, or explanation for why it mattered whether Qorru or Magha won, could've made this story interesting to people who haven't already read The Summer Dragon.
"Thasha's Cure for Cabin Fever"--Robert V.S. Redick. A short story set in yet another fantasy series I have not read. Written in a convoluted way such that it's hard to tell which dialog or actions belong to which characters.
"How Not to Invade a Country"--Anna Stephens. A short story set in yet another fantasy series I have not read, but this one actually provides characterization and context, plus a nice amount of wry humor in the narrative voice. Crys has been demoted and given a crappy posting in a boring area--luckily or unluckily enough, his commander makes enough foolish choices that he's forced into some heroics. This story made me want to read more by Stephens.
"The Paper Man"--Peter Orullian. A would-be writer is visited by a tiny man made out of paper, and slowly realizes the price he must pay for good writing. I dunno, the idea is fine but this just felt like it took a while to get anywhere. I think I'm just too disinterested in ~being a writer~ to care about this story.
"Merchants Have Maxims"--Cat Rambo. Short story set in a fantasy series I have not read. I got bored and didn't finish this.
"Of Anchor Chains and Slow Refrains and Light Long Lost in Darkness"--Ken Scholes. Prequel set in a fantasy series I have not read. Childhood friends King Rudolfo and Gregoric have a pirate adventure and prove their loyalty to each other yet again.
"Second Chances"--Megan Lindholm. A crew member on a reality show is sensitive to ghosts, which helps when the latest house the cast is going to rehab turns out to be haunted. I liked this (not least because it wasn't yet another short story set in a medieval pseudo-European fantasy series).
"The Hidden"--Tad Williams. Excerpt from a fantasy series I haven't read. Some creepy imagery!
"Throwdown"--Scott Sigler. Set in a sort of Western post-apocalyptic setting. Didn't care for it.
"Sidekick"--Carrie Vaughn. A secretary wakes up in a hospital after an accident she doesn't remember. The hospital staff seem weirdly focused on asking her questions about her boss. Great fun!
"Hawkeye"--Patrick Swenson. An investigator who can talk to hawks is tasked with finding out what happened to a priceless gem. Contains way too many infodumps and the last 6 pages are just the main character tediously explaining the mystery (which is both very simple and overly complicated--the twist that the queen is an Exchanger instead of a Changer is a good one, but the endless Exchanges that are recounted are completely unnecessary to both plot and reader).
"The Spectral Sword"--Ramon Terrell. A short story set in another fantasy series I haven't read. A man gets a magic sword. Didn't hold my interest.
"Gold Light"--Anna Smith Spark. Short story in another fantasy series I haven't read. Creepy but beautiful, a bit like Tanith Lee. A princess watches her brother the king talk to a dragon, and realizes what she must do.
"The Stone Golem of Qual'Jom"--Jason Denzel. A stone golem lives for eons. I liked its point of view, particularly in the first half when it's figuring out its earthly form.
"A Fire Within the Ways"--Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson. A cut novella (it's 70 pages) from the final book in the Wheel of Time series. I stopped caring about this series years ago and skipped this entirely.
"Seven"--Naomi Novik. GodDAMN this was a good story. A potter's wife takes up pottery to make ends meet, and is so good she's given the honor of working with bone clay--clay so pure and white that all yearn to work with it, but that inevitably kills those who do so. Reminded me of LeGuin, a bit, in the pairing of imagination and grounded characters who have to worry about feeding their children.
"The Fire-Risen Ash"--Shawn Speakman. Overcomplicated fantasy.
August 30, 2020
Read for Smith Spark and Lawrence
4.5/5
I read 2 shorts in this anthology for a pallet cleanser and they were awesome. One by Mark Lawrence the other by Anna Smith Spark. Both authors I love for their immersive prose.
4.5/5
I read 2 shorts in this anthology for a pallet cleanser and they were awesome. One by Mark Lawrence the other by Anna Smith Spark. Both authors I love for their immersive prose.
Read
April 12, 2019Like a fairy tale, fantasy and history- loving nerdy girl walking into a Renaissance festival for the first time, I too had these feelings upon receiving this anthology.
The eye of the dragon babe and egg licked by fire on the cover is mesmerizing and beckoned me straight away.
Fantastic, full of awe, and enthralling.
Each story is a precious gift like a cup of mead to the Vikings. So much love for this anthology. -Sara S.
The eye of the dragon babe and egg licked by fire on the cover is mesmerizing and beckoned me straight away.
Fantastic, full of awe, and enthralling.
Each story is a precious gift like a cup of mead to the Vikings. So much love for this anthology. -Sara S.
March 15, 2019
After I spent a bit of time getting to know the stories in my delightful ARC (thank you Grim Oak Press!), I spent a bit more time getting to know the backstory to this anthology, the third in a series of anthologies edited by Shawn Speakman—and let me tell you, there's nothing that more epitomizes the year 2019 than an anthology of top-shelf science fiction and fantasy authors designed as a creative solution to paying down someone's medical debt. I highly recommend taking a peek at the "about" page on Grim Oak Press's website, which you can find [ here ], where Speakman's story (and the larger story of the Unfettered series) is spelled out in more detail than I can do justice to here. Suffice it to say, everything behind the scenes (behind the pages?) of this anthology speaks to the humanity and general all-round excellence of the authors involved ... as well as to the sad ultimate truth of (hopefully) late-stage capitalism: when systems like the American health-care system fail you, good people are the ones who are left to pull you out of the fire. Sometimes they may be your last line of defense. And even though Unshuttered was the rare success story of a creative solution gone right, not everyone has access to the kinds of authors that Speakman does, or to the apparatus of publication, or the marketing and promotional gifts required to make a success out of a project like this. Good people, I guess I mean to say, are not a substitute for humane systems of government.
Okay, whew. *steps off soapbox*
I cannot speak to the previous two anthologies, which I have not had the pleasure of finding copies of, but the stories collected in Unshuttered III are representative of a wide range of voices and types and forms and genres. Standouts, in my mind, include Seanan McGuire's "Stripes in the Sunset," Carrie Vaughn's "Sidekick," and Naomi Novik's "Seven." "Stripes of Sunset" punched me in the emotional gut and makes for an excellent companion to de-extinction and "rewilding" narratives like Kim Stanley Robinson's 2312 . "Sidekick" provides a fun companion piece to our global obsession with superhero narratives where the human cost and human collateral is often overlooked. And "Seven" pulls some lyrical moves reminiscent of Ursula K. Le Guin's "The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas," only with a more positive take on the bedrock of human nature.
Other readers, of course, will be excited to see banner-name authors like Lev Grossman, Terry Brooks, Tad Williams, and Robert Jordan & Brandon Sanderson represented in this anthology, as well. They're not my cup of tea, but their involvement speaks volumes about both them and the general quality of this anthology. It's a good book. It's supporting a good cause. And some of its stories made me cry—in a good way. What more could you want out of an anthology, I ask you?
Okay, whew. *steps off soapbox*
I cannot speak to the previous two anthologies, which I have not had the pleasure of finding copies of, but the stories collected in Unshuttered III are representative of a wide range of voices and types and forms and genres. Standouts, in my mind, include Seanan McGuire's "Stripes in the Sunset," Carrie Vaughn's "Sidekick," and Naomi Novik's "Seven." "Stripes of Sunset" punched me in the emotional gut and makes for an excellent companion to de-extinction and "rewilding" narratives like Kim Stanley Robinson's 2312 . "Sidekick" provides a fun companion piece to our global obsession with superhero narratives where the human cost and human collateral is often overlooked. And "Seven" pulls some lyrical moves reminiscent of Ursula K. Le Guin's "The Ones Who Walk Away From Omelas," only with a more positive take on the bedrock of human nature.
Other readers, of course, will be excited to see banner-name authors like Lev Grossman, Terry Brooks, Tad Williams, and Robert Jordan & Brandon Sanderson represented in this anthology, as well. They're not my cup of tea, but their involvement speaks volumes about both them and the general quality of this anthology. It's a good book. It's supporting a good cause. And some of its stories made me cry—in a good way. What more could you want out of an anthology, I ask you?
May 2, 2023
Unfettered 3
Actual rating 3.21
There are not many stories that stand alone. Most are parts of established series. A few should not have been included in an anthology of short stories. A story by definition should have a beginning, middle and an end. Prequels are NOT stories.
The Heart Box
Callie Bates
4 stars
A man who lost his entire family in an accident cuts out his heart and puts it in a box so he can no longer feel the pain of living without them.
Everybody Said It Would Hurt
Lev Grossman
3 stars
This story is from “The Magicians” universe and takes place a week after “The Girl in the Mirror" a story in the anthology "Dangerous Women". Plum, a senior at Brakebills, really wants to win a fellowship and she is certain that her thesis that she is working on under the tutelage of Professor Quinton Coldwater will cinch it. For reasons that are never explained Plum is scared of a life without school. At one point she mentions “hiding from Fillory”. Overall it wasn’t as good as other short stories I’ve read by the author.
A Thousand Years
Mark Lawrence
4 stars
The story is a Viking adventure with a twist. Snorri is only 16. He became a father at 14, but he has never allowed himself to feel anything for his son. Karl's mother died in childbirth and Snorri has still not recovered from her death. His mother is raising Karl. When a priest comes to the village looking for volunteers to fight a troll that is menacing other villages across the river Snorri jumps at the chance to leave his home and abandon Karl. Olaf, Snorri's best friend, decides to join the hunting party despite being nearly as short as a dwarf and almost as round as a ball. The two lads join with men from their village to go and fight this “iron troll”. What they find is beyond their understanding. The author's notes say the story exists in Red Queen’s War trilogy and the Broken Empire trilogy.
Among a Throng of Bilious Octogenarians
Delilah S. Dawson
2.5 stars
This story uses character inspired by “The Tales of Pell” by Kevin Hearne. I have read “The Iron Druid” series of his. This book though did not pique my interest. With what was in this short story I am glad I didn’t buy it.
After being "anointed" by a drunken pixie Barthur needs to go on a quest to make a name for himself. He did not want to be anointed, but he didn't get a say in the matter. Barthur then goes to the village elders so he can receive a quest and a blessing. The elders however are not what he expected. There were some funny spots, but overall there were too many spoonerisms and puns.
Blood of the Sardaukar: A Tale of Dune
Brian Herbert & Kevin J. Anderson
3 stars
I haven't read "Dune", and I know nothing about it. If what I say here contradicts the books my apologies. This is not a genre I normally read. Jopati is leading a squad of soldiers in a clandestine mission against Duke Leto while the war happens around them. We are treated to a flashback from when Jopati was a teen and his family was attacked and their planet taken over. What follows is how Jopati became the fighter he is. I had qualms about this story, but the last bit made it almost worth it. The author’s notes talked about honor. In terms of Star Trek this is honor like Romulans have and not like Klingons. In other words “honor”, but only when it suits them-not in all things. A Klingon would never have carried out the mission knowing what Jopati knew.
Allanon's Quest
Terry Brooks
3.5 stars
Story is a prequel to “The Sword of Shannara” series. Allanon is a druid, the last of his kind. When he begins to see signs that an ancient evil is returning Allanon starts searching for descendants of Jerle Shannara-the man who defeated the evil originally. Only they may wield the Sword of Shannara. But the evil has been systematically killing all who have the blood of Jerle, and now there are few left. Allanon has come to Archer Trace hoping he's not too late.
Kneeling before Jupiter
David Anthony Durham
2 stars
In ancient Rome Publius has become a man. After all of the pageantry of the day is over Publius thinks everything is over. He soon finds he was mistaken when he learns what being a nobilitas truly means. I loved Durham’s works in other anthologies, but I don't care for this one. This was just a vamp tale.
Stripes in the Sunset
Seanan McGuire
4 stars
Very cool story. It would be so awesome if it could happen in real life. All around the world animals are giving birth to extinct members of their species. Meanwhile human births are declining.
All That Glitters
Marc Turner
3.5 stars
Castella and Araline are friends and thieves. The world they inhabit has dragons. The dragons’ blood is valued for many uses. After stealing some they find themselves being chased by the man whose crew acquired it originally. I really wanted a different ending.
The Heir Apparent
John Gwynne
3 stars
I'm guessing I would not like the series "The Faithful and The Fallen". This is a part of the antagonist’s origin story from that series. For years Rhin, a princess, has played a board game with her father's prisoner, a giant named Gair. During the games they have talked and Gair has taught Rhin many things, such as his language and some magic. Her father is dying and she believes she'll be made his heir. With the aid of Gair she takes steops to ensure that she is. One could almost feel sorry for Rhin-almost.
Dancing on the Edge: A Story of the Illindriverse
Deborah A. Wolf
3 stars
A sad, messed up story, but in the end she prevailed. Yaela is a slave, but she wasn't always. Born into a royal family whose destruction is glossed over Yaela, along with her sister-a very pregnant Haviva, is forced to take care of her “husband” (in truth he is her owner), the sadistic Hadl. A stranger, Aasah finds Yaela and shows her she has the power to control the shadows-something very precious in an area where to be out in the day is a death sentence. This is a back story for a character in “The Dragon’s Legacy” series. The name Yaela isn’t in the synopses for the books, so I’m unsure of how large a part she plays. Since it not a genre I enjoy the story was hard to read.
Prologue: Second Book of “The Evertide”
Todd Lockwood
3 stars
As it says, it is a prologue. It should not be in with short stories. Magha is searching for his son Darian. He is accompanied by his dragon Shuja and Qorru-who we find out very quickly has been sent along with Magha with order to kill him and the son if found. I don’t consider this a “spoiler” since it happens in the third page. Seriously it is malarkey to have a prequel in an anthology. It doesn't make me want to read the series. Indeed it had the opposite effect. A short story set WITHIN the universe of the series may have whetted my curiosity and caused me to search out the books it was a part of. It is too bad. I enjoy the author’s style, but this is too much like a bait-and-switch for me to consider reading anything else. There are other prologues that a self-contained for the most part. That could have been done here.
Thasha's Cure for Cabin Fever
Robert V. S. Redick
3 stars
The story is an epilogue of sorts. Thasha, a teenage girl is bored. She is in a ship's cabin with her father and friends. When she tries to leave they make up one reason after another why she should stay put. Thasha also has memories that the others claim are only dreams from when she was ill. Even the jigsaw puzzle is acting odd-changing pictures between a shipwreck and a landscape. And are those ghouls in the painting hanging on the wall? Overall it was good. Fair warning though, it is full of spoilers for the series “The Chathrand Voyage”. If that is something you have plans to read, I would hold off on reading “Thasha's Cure for Cabin Fever” until after you’ve read the other books.
How Not to Invade a Country
Anna Stephens
3.5 stars
It is somewhat of a war story, so not my preferred genre. Still it was fun. Crys Tailorson was demoted to lieutenant after a brawl ensued while he was gambling. He is now assigned to a mostly boring outpost where his commander, Bedras, seems to delight in making his life miserable. While on patrol Crys and some of the others, including Bedras wind up accidentally in enemy territory. Crys and Bedras will have to work together if they are to survive.
The Paper Man
Peter Orullian
2.5 stars
I just didn't like the story that much. A foul-mouthed man made from a sheet of notebook paper harangues an author into improving his writing. There is some random masochism. The paper guy’s insults were funny, but overall it was not something I would read again.
Merchants Have Maxims
Cat Rambo
2.5 stars
This takes place within the "Tabat" series of books-something I had never heard of and truthfully would never read. They just do not seem like anything close to what I enjoy reading. Essa is a "merchant". In this universe that is much more than someone who sells a product. It seems to be something more akin to a religion. In reality Essa would be a bookkeeper. The ledgers she writes are almost like psalms. Unfortunately she has lost all of her notebooks in a shipwreck. The island the survivors find themselves on seems friendly. They were given fresh clothes, food and a place to sleep. Until one of their party was found dead everything was fine. I had hoped it might be a mystery, but even that was dull.
Of Anchor Chains and Slow Refrains and Light Long Lost in Darkness
Ken Scholes
4 stars
The story is set within the universe of a series of book called "The Psalms of Isaak". Gregoric is the first captain to his best friend Rudolfo. Gregoric’s father was first captain to Rudolfo’s father and the boys were raised together. Rudolfo became king at the tender age of twelve after his parents were murdered. Still young at only 19 the two friends go in search of a pirate, Rafe Merrique. Rudolfo has been fascinated by Rafe for years and paid out a lot of money in order to find him. After finally meeting his hero, Rudolfo and Gregoric join the crew for an adventure. The comradery between the men is enjoyable and overall the story is fun.
Second Chances
Megan Lindholm
4 stars
We are treated to a behind the scenes look of a home improvement reality show. Marcy is the set designer who makes the houses look worse than they really are. She also happens to hear ghosts. The latest house has two-a teenage girl who was believed to have killed herself, and an angry spirit whose death room few can stay in for long. The “ghost story” aspect was well done. The way shows use subterfuge to draw in viewers was neat. I wish the “stars” of the show had been given a taste of their own medicine.
The Hidden
Tad Williams
2 stars
-a disjointed mess. The Names are hard to keep track of and it seemed like three timelines were happening at once. I loved his book from the first collection, so this was surprising and disappointing.
Throwdown: “Victim with a Capital V,” Part II
Scott Sigler
3 stars
This is the second part to a story from Unfettered 2. I like this one a bit more than part 1.
Lisa along with Fish and Jimmy left Frisco on stolen horses after Lisa killed the man who raped her as a child. While traveling they are attacked by dog-like creatures. After being saved by a group of cowboys from a nearby ranch Lisa is enlisted into a duel serving as the ranch owner's champion.
Sidekick
Carrie Vaughn
3.5 stars
Miss Smith wakes up in a hospital with no idea of why she is there. The medical staff tells her she fell off of her horse. The fact she doesn't remember riding recently and that the doctor keeps asking about her boss has Smith suspicious of everything that is happening to her. I imagine this is something that Felicity in the first season on Arrow would have had happen.
Hawkeye
Patrick Swenson
4.5 stars
Jarrel has the ability to see through the eyes of his hawk Talam. This aids him in his job as an investigator for the crown. When a stone that is important to the empire disappears he is given the task of finding it.
The Spectral Sword
Ramón Terrell
3 stars
“Good story line that just stopped! UGH” That is what I wrote the first time I read the story. I must not have recalled the writer's note saying this was a prologue, another one that should not be in something called an anthology. This one is for a series called "World of a Broken Age", however there isn't a series by that name under the author's book list. There is one called “Legend of Takashaniel” that the book he says this was a prologue for-“Echoes of a Shattered Age”. The main character of Shinobu isn't in any of the synopses for other books. All I can figure is he never got around to writing it. One thing I found odd was the author used his own image for the covers. I have never seen that done. Yes he is an attractive man, but it seems kind of tacky. Back to THIS story-Shinobu's siblings were taken when he was young. Years later when a sentient sword tells him that he can help get them back Shinobu ignores his own advice and takes up the sword.
Gold Light
Anna Smith Spark
1.5 stars
From the author's foreword I had hoped to enjoy the story. Nope. Ysleta is the princess of the realm. Her brother Undyl is not only king, but he can also talk to dragons. This is not a heartwarming story of dragons. Undyl is downright evil. That he laments what he did doesn't absolve him. The author’s notes state that this is from “The Court of Broken Knives”. That book is part of “Empires of Dust” series.
The Stone Golem of Qual'Jom
Jason Denzel
3.5 stars
A sad story with very little dialogue. Qual'Jom built a golem. The story is told from the golem’s perception. He talks about how he was made and the dislike he felt for his new existence. His master promised him sight. Qual'Jom left the golem alone to go in search of a way to give the golem the gift of that sight. The golem spends years guarding his master's residence. The loneliness he feels is palpable.
A Fire within the Ways
Robert Jordan & Brandon Sanderson
4 stars
Not cannon. The author's notes are more important here than in any other story in the anthology. This is a story that was cut from “A Memory of Light” in “Wheel of Time” series. Perrin and his soldiers are on a mission to destroy bridges to the “Waygates” so that their enemy cannot use them as a means of attack.
Seven
Naomi Novik
3 stars
This is one of the few stories that is a stand-alone. The beginning was slow, but it turned out to be a cool story-until the last page where it didn't feel like an end. This story is in honor of Shawn's mother. After she is left a widow with three young children to take care of Kath begins to make the fine pottery that her husband was famed for. She soon develops her own style and her wares become sought after in far greater numbers than those who are part of the clay-shaper guild.
The Fire-Risen Ash
Shawn Speakman
4 stars
I love Shawn's work. I truly hope he writes the next book soon.
After dispatching an evil wizard Richard McAllister and his fairy companion Snedeker come across a phoenix egg-something that was believed to be extinct. There are forces fighting to make sure it is still gone forever.
Actual rating 3.21
There are not many stories that stand alone. Most are parts of established series. A few should not have been included in an anthology of short stories. A story by definition should have a beginning, middle and an end. Prequels are NOT stories.
The Heart Box
Callie Bates
4 stars
A man who lost his entire family in an accident cuts out his heart and puts it in a box so he can no longer feel the pain of living without them.
Everybody Said It Would Hurt
Lev Grossman
3 stars
This story is from “The Magicians” universe and takes place a week after “The Girl in the Mirror" a story in the anthology "Dangerous Women". Plum, a senior at Brakebills, really wants to win a fellowship and she is certain that her thesis that she is working on under the tutelage of Professor Quinton Coldwater will cinch it. For reasons that are never explained Plum is scared of a life without school. At one point she mentions “hiding from Fillory”. Overall it wasn’t as good as other short stories I’ve read by the author.
A Thousand Years
Mark Lawrence
4 stars
The story is a Viking adventure with a twist. Snorri is only 16. He became a father at 14, but he has never allowed himself to feel anything for his son. Karl's mother died in childbirth and Snorri has still not recovered from her death. His mother is raising Karl. When a priest comes to the village looking for volunteers to fight a troll that is menacing other villages across the river Snorri jumps at the chance to leave his home and abandon Karl. Olaf, Snorri's best friend, decides to join the hunting party despite being nearly as short as a dwarf and almost as round as a ball. The two lads join with men from their village to go and fight this “iron troll”. What they find is beyond their understanding. The author's notes say the story exists in Red Queen’s War trilogy and the Broken Empire trilogy.
Among a Throng of Bilious Octogenarians
Delilah S. Dawson
2.5 stars
This story uses character inspired by “The Tales of Pell” by Kevin Hearne. I have read “The Iron Druid” series of his. This book though did not pique my interest. With what was in this short story I am glad I didn’t buy it.
After being "anointed" by a drunken pixie Barthur needs to go on a quest to make a name for himself. He did not want to be anointed, but he didn't get a say in the matter. Barthur then goes to the village elders so he can receive a quest and a blessing. The elders however are not what he expected. There were some funny spots, but overall there were too many spoonerisms and puns.
Blood of the Sardaukar: A Tale of Dune
Brian Herbert & Kevin J. Anderson
3 stars
I haven't read "Dune", and I know nothing about it. If what I say here contradicts the books my apologies. This is not a genre I normally read. Jopati is leading a squad of soldiers in a clandestine mission against Duke Leto while the war happens around them. We are treated to a flashback from when Jopati was a teen and his family was attacked and their planet taken over. What follows is how Jopati became the fighter he is. I had qualms about this story, but the last bit made it almost worth it. The author’s notes talked about honor. In terms of Star Trek this is honor like Romulans have and not like Klingons. In other words “honor”, but only when it suits them-not in all things. A Klingon would never have carried out the mission knowing what Jopati knew.
Allanon's Quest
Terry Brooks
3.5 stars
Story is a prequel to “The Sword of Shannara” series. Allanon is a druid, the last of his kind. When he begins to see signs that an ancient evil is returning Allanon starts searching for descendants of Jerle Shannara-the man who defeated the evil originally. Only they may wield the Sword of Shannara. But the evil has been systematically killing all who have the blood of Jerle, and now there are few left. Allanon has come to Archer Trace hoping he's not too late.
Kneeling before Jupiter
David Anthony Durham
2 stars
In ancient Rome Publius has become a man. After all of the pageantry of the day is over Publius thinks everything is over. He soon finds he was mistaken when he learns what being a nobilitas truly means. I loved Durham’s works in other anthologies, but I don't care for this one. This was just a vamp tale.
Stripes in the Sunset
Seanan McGuire
4 stars
Very cool story. It would be so awesome if it could happen in real life. All around the world animals are giving birth to extinct members of their species. Meanwhile human births are declining.
All That Glitters
Marc Turner
3.5 stars
Castella and Araline are friends and thieves. The world they inhabit has dragons. The dragons’ blood is valued for many uses. After stealing some they find themselves being chased by the man whose crew acquired it originally. I really wanted a different ending.
The Heir Apparent
John Gwynne
3 stars
I'm guessing I would not like the series "The Faithful and The Fallen". This is a part of the antagonist’s origin story from that series. For years Rhin, a princess, has played a board game with her father's prisoner, a giant named Gair. During the games they have talked and Gair has taught Rhin many things, such as his language and some magic. Her father is dying and she believes she'll be made his heir. With the aid of Gair she takes steops to ensure that she is. One could almost feel sorry for Rhin-almost.
Dancing on the Edge: A Story of the Illindriverse
Deborah A. Wolf
3 stars
A sad, messed up story, but in the end she prevailed. Yaela is a slave, but she wasn't always. Born into a royal family whose destruction is glossed over Yaela, along with her sister-a very pregnant Haviva, is forced to take care of her “husband” (in truth he is her owner), the sadistic Hadl. A stranger, Aasah finds Yaela and shows her she has the power to control the shadows-something very precious in an area where to be out in the day is a death sentence. This is a back story for a character in “The Dragon’s Legacy” series. The name Yaela isn’t in the synopses for the books, so I’m unsure of how large a part she plays. Since it not a genre I enjoy the story was hard to read.
Prologue: Second Book of “The Evertide”
Todd Lockwood
3 stars
As it says, it is a prologue. It should not be in with short stories. Magha is searching for his son Darian. He is accompanied by his dragon Shuja and Qorru-who we find out very quickly has been sent along with Magha with order to kill him and the son if found. I don’t consider this a “spoiler” since it happens in the third page. Seriously it is malarkey to have a prequel in an anthology. It doesn't make me want to read the series. Indeed it had the opposite effect. A short story set WITHIN the universe of the series may have whetted my curiosity and caused me to search out the books it was a part of. It is too bad. I enjoy the author’s style, but this is too much like a bait-and-switch for me to consider reading anything else. There are other prologues that a self-contained for the most part. That could have been done here.
Thasha's Cure for Cabin Fever
Robert V. S. Redick
3 stars
The story is an epilogue of sorts. Thasha, a teenage girl is bored. She is in a ship's cabin with her father and friends. When she tries to leave they make up one reason after another why she should stay put. Thasha also has memories that the others claim are only dreams from when she was ill. Even the jigsaw puzzle is acting odd-changing pictures between a shipwreck and a landscape. And are those ghouls in the painting hanging on the wall? Overall it was good. Fair warning though, it is full of spoilers for the series “The Chathrand Voyage”. If that is something you have plans to read, I would hold off on reading “Thasha's Cure for Cabin Fever” until after you’ve read the other books.
How Not to Invade a Country
Anna Stephens
3.5 stars
It is somewhat of a war story, so not my preferred genre. Still it was fun. Crys Tailorson was demoted to lieutenant after a brawl ensued while he was gambling. He is now assigned to a mostly boring outpost where his commander, Bedras, seems to delight in making his life miserable. While on patrol Crys and some of the others, including Bedras wind up accidentally in enemy territory. Crys and Bedras will have to work together if they are to survive.
The Paper Man
Peter Orullian
2.5 stars
I just didn't like the story that much. A foul-mouthed man made from a sheet of notebook paper harangues an author into improving his writing. There is some random masochism. The paper guy’s insults were funny, but overall it was not something I would read again.
Merchants Have Maxims
Cat Rambo
2.5 stars
This takes place within the "Tabat" series of books-something I had never heard of and truthfully would never read. They just do not seem like anything close to what I enjoy reading. Essa is a "merchant". In this universe that is much more than someone who sells a product. It seems to be something more akin to a religion. In reality Essa would be a bookkeeper. The ledgers she writes are almost like psalms. Unfortunately she has lost all of her notebooks in a shipwreck. The island the survivors find themselves on seems friendly. They were given fresh clothes, food and a place to sleep. Until one of their party was found dead everything was fine. I had hoped it might be a mystery, but even that was dull.
Of Anchor Chains and Slow Refrains and Light Long Lost in Darkness
Ken Scholes
4 stars
The story is set within the universe of a series of book called "The Psalms of Isaak". Gregoric is the first captain to his best friend Rudolfo. Gregoric’s father was first captain to Rudolfo’s father and the boys were raised together. Rudolfo became king at the tender age of twelve after his parents were murdered. Still young at only 19 the two friends go in search of a pirate, Rafe Merrique. Rudolfo has been fascinated by Rafe for years and paid out a lot of money in order to find him. After finally meeting his hero, Rudolfo and Gregoric join the crew for an adventure. The comradery between the men is enjoyable and overall the story is fun.
Second Chances
Megan Lindholm
4 stars
We are treated to a behind the scenes look of a home improvement reality show. Marcy is the set designer who makes the houses look worse than they really are. She also happens to hear ghosts. The latest house has two-a teenage girl who was believed to have killed herself, and an angry spirit whose death room few can stay in for long. The “ghost story” aspect was well done. The way shows use subterfuge to draw in viewers was neat. I wish the “stars” of the show had been given a taste of their own medicine.
The Hidden
Tad Williams
2 stars
-a disjointed mess. The Names are hard to keep track of and it seemed like three timelines were happening at once. I loved his book from the first collection, so this was surprising and disappointing.
Throwdown: “Victim with a Capital V,” Part II
Scott Sigler
3 stars
This is the second part to a story from Unfettered 2. I like this one a bit more than part 1.
Lisa along with Fish and Jimmy left Frisco on stolen horses after Lisa killed the man who raped her as a child. While traveling they are attacked by dog-like creatures. After being saved by a group of cowboys from a nearby ranch Lisa is enlisted into a duel serving as the ranch owner's champion.
Sidekick
Carrie Vaughn
3.5 stars
Miss Smith wakes up in a hospital with no idea of why she is there. The medical staff tells her she fell off of her horse. The fact she doesn't remember riding recently and that the doctor keeps asking about her boss has Smith suspicious of everything that is happening to her. I imagine this is something that Felicity in the first season on Arrow would have had happen.
Hawkeye
Patrick Swenson
4.5 stars
Jarrel has the ability to see through the eyes of his hawk Talam. This aids him in his job as an investigator for the crown. When a stone that is important to the empire disappears he is given the task of finding it.
The Spectral Sword
Ramón Terrell
3 stars
“Good story line that just stopped! UGH” That is what I wrote the first time I read the story. I must not have recalled the writer's note saying this was a prologue, another one that should not be in something called an anthology. This one is for a series called "World of a Broken Age", however there isn't a series by that name under the author's book list. There is one called “Legend of Takashaniel” that the book he says this was a prologue for-“Echoes of a Shattered Age”. The main character of Shinobu isn't in any of the synopses for other books. All I can figure is he never got around to writing it. One thing I found odd was the author used his own image for the covers. I have never seen that done. Yes he is an attractive man, but it seems kind of tacky. Back to THIS story-Shinobu's siblings were taken when he was young. Years later when a sentient sword tells him that he can help get them back Shinobu ignores his own advice and takes up the sword.
Gold Light
Anna Smith Spark
1.5 stars
From the author's foreword I had hoped to enjoy the story. Nope. Ysleta is the princess of the realm. Her brother Undyl is not only king, but he can also talk to dragons. This is not a heartwarming story of dragons. Undyl is downright evil. That he laments what he did doesn't absolve him. The author’s notes state that this is from “The Court of Broken Knives”. That book is part of “Empires of Dust” series.
The Stone Golem of Qual'Jom
Jason Denzel
3.5 stars
A sad story with very little dialogue. Qual'Jom built a golem. The story is told from the golem’s perception. He talks about how he was made and the dislike he felt for his new existence. His master promised him sight. Qual'Jom left the golem alone to go in search of a way to give the golem the gift of that sight. The golem spends years guarding his master's residence. The loneliness he feels is palpable.
A Fire within the Ways
Robert Jordan & Brandon Sanderson
4 stars
Not cannon. The author's notes are more important here than in any other story in the anthology. This is a story that was cut from “A Memory of Light” in “Wheel of Time” series. Perrin and his soldiers are on a mission to destroy bridges to the “Waygates” so that their enemy cannot use them as a means of attack.
Seven
Naomi Novik
3 stars
This is one of the few stories that is a stand-alone. The beginning was slow, but it turned out to be a cool story-until the last page where it didn't feel like an end. This story is in honor of Shawn's mother. After she is left a widow with three young children to take care of Kath begins to make the fine pottery that her husband was famed for. She soon develops her own style and her wares become sought after in far greater numbers than those who are part of the clay-shaper guild.
The Fire-Risen Ash
Shawn Speakman
4 stars
I love Shawn's work. I truly hope he writes the next book soon.
After dispatching an evil wizard Richard McAllister and his fairy companion Snedeker come across a phoenix egg-something that was believed to be extinct. There are forces fighting to make sure it is still gone forever.
February 25, 2023
I received this book as part of the Giveaway and as others, I was interested in it first because of the Wheel of Time story. I have to say, I definitely consider WoT as my favorite serie of books, but Perrin has never been one of my favorite characters and I found that his storyline was generally more boring than others. I was also curious about what would happen with the Ways, but it has never been one of my favorite aspects of WoT. I'd say that the strengths in this story are how we see Perrin acting as a leader and his potential as king as well as the potential rapprochements between different groups as the Mayeners, the Ghealdanin, the White Cloaks, the Aiels and the Two Rivers Men. I also liked the end, how we saw a potential for a long term resolution instead of an expediant cleaning that would have copied the cleansing of Saidin. What was less interesting was the traveling in the Ways itself, which I found slow and it didn't change that much from previous such journeys we read about before. I was also disappointed that some characters like Tam were present, but played a really small role. I think in general, if you like Perrin and are interested in the Ways, it is an interesting read as a glimpse of the creation process of A Memory of Light.
As a fan of the Magicians, I've also read the story that was cut from The Magician's Land and while I enjoyed it, I can understand why Lev Grossman cut it and decided to take his story down a different path. I would still have been curious though to see where it would have lead if Grossman had continued this storyline where Plum graduates and Quentin is still a teacher at Brakebills.
I've gone through some of the other stories, but I'm not done yet with the book. I hope to find stories by authors I'm less familiar with that stand well on their own, considering I have not read their other works.
I think this anthology is interesting mainly if you like to see the creation process of writers, ideas they had that never made it into a novel.
As a fan of the Magicians, I've also read the story that was cut from The Magician's Land and while I enjoyed it, I can understand why Lev Grossman cut it and decided to take his story down a different path. I would still have been curious though to see where it would have lead if Grossman had continued this storyline where Plum graduates and Quentin is still a teacher at Brakebills.
I've gone through some of the other stories, but I'm not done yet with the book. I hope to find stories by authors I'm less familiar with that stand well on their own, considering I have not read their other works.
I think this anthology is interesting mainly if you like to see the creation process of writers, ideas they had that never made it into a novel.
Read
July 16, 2020SECOND CHANCES
So far I've only read this excellent ghost story from one of my favourite writers, Megan Lindholm - aka Robin Hobb. I love how she juxtaposes the down-to-earth with supernatural elements and brilliant bits of subtle characterisation. And the behind the scenes look at reality TV is a lot of fun. I always know I'm in safe hands with Robin. Would happily listen to her narrate paint drying. And then I'd buy the book.
Quotes:
'I just wanted to go home, take a very hot bath and find a nature documentary and fall asleep to hyenas eating gazelles. Something natural and restful.'
'She didn't talk much, but she listened. She really listened. She asked me what music I was playing in my headphones, and I told her. And the next week, she got me a Mötley Crüe T-shirt.'
https://www.tor.com/2019/02/11/read-s...
So far I've only read this excellent ghost story from one of my favourite writers, Megan Lindholm - aka Robin Hobb. I love how she juxtaposes the down-to-earth with supernatural elements and brilliant bits of subtle characterisation. And the behind the scenes look at reality TV is a lot of fun. I always know I'm in safe hands with Robin. Would happily listen to her narrate paint drying. And then I'd buy the book.
Quotes:
'I just wanted to go home, take a very hot bath and find a nature documentary and fall asleep to hyenas eating gazelles. Something natural and restful.'
'She didn't talk much, but she listened. She really listened. She asked me what music I was playing in my headphones, and I told her. And the next week, she got me a Mötley Crüe T-shirt.'
https://www.tor.com/2019/02/11/read-s...
Shelved as 'maybe-one-day'
September 1, 2019I've just read an excerpt of 'Seven' by Naomi Novik, which is available to read for free on tor.com. I really enjoyed it. I would say this even if Naomi Novik wasn't one of my favourite authors.
4.5 stars for the bit I've read so far. Hopefully, the rest of this anthology is as good when I eventually get round to reading it.
4.5 stars for the bit I've read so far. Hopefully, the rest of this anthology is as good when I eventually get round to reading it.
May 1, 2019
As with all anthologies, some of these appealed to me while others did not.
First, let's get out of the way the simple fact that every narrator involved with the project is amazing! I couldn't have asked for better.
Now, as with previous volumes of Unfettered, I read it primarily for Brandon Sanderson's entry as I'm A Wheel of Time junkie.
That being said, I'm not normally a fan of short stories, but there were several noteworthy gems here.
First, since reading 2/3 of the Sword of Shannara some years ago I have actively avoided Terry Brooks. Nothing about it really interested me.
So imagine my surprise when I find a prequel story to it here about Alenon and discover that I actually really enjoyed not only the story but also the writing itself and the voice. I'll definitely be giving Brooks another chance in the near future!
Tad Williams has been on my radar for a long time, but after reading this story I'll definitely be moving him up on my tbr.
Naomi Novik is another one whose books have been on my agenda for a while. The fantasy element of this story is quite subtle, but having lost my own mother to cancer, it deals with a subject that is very close to my heart and does so in such a touchingly beautiful and poignant way, I couldn't help but love the story. Her books are definitely being moved up on my tbr as well.
Ramon Terrell is an author I had never heard of before, and after this sampling of his writing I can't understand why!
The story was a little strange, with a multi dimensional sword and travel as well as some pretty unusual creatures, but it all came together nicely and he writes in an incredibly compelling voice and style!
It's unfortunate that he doesn't have audio versions of his books, but I've already picked up his latest novel.
Jason Denzel is another that I had never heard of but will definitely be looking into his other work.
And finally, of course the bonus Dune story by Brian Herbert and Kevin J Anderson was fantastic. Some really great back story there about the Sardakar and Selucia Secunda.
In the end, I would say that this anthology has something to offer every fantasy fan, and you never know, you just might discover your new favorite author herein.
First, let's get out of the way the simple fact that every narrator involved with the project is amazing! I couldn't have asked for better.
Now, as with previous volumes of Unfettered, I read it primarily for Brandon Sanderson's entry as I'm A Wheel of Time junkie.
That being said, I'm not normally a fan of short stories, but there were several noteworthy gems here.
First, since reading 2/3 of the Sword of Shannara some years ago I have actively avoided Terry Brooks. Nothing about it really interested me.
So imagine my surprise when I find a prequel story to it here about Alenon and discover that I actually really enjoyed not only the story but also the writing itself and the voice. I'll definitely be giving Brooks another chance in the near future!
Tad Williams has been on my radar for a long time, but after reading this story I'll definitely be moving him up on my tbr.
Naomi Novik is another one whose books have been on my agenda for a while. The fantasy element of this story is quite subtle, but having lost my own mother to cancer, it deals with a subject that is very close to my heart and does so in such a touchingly beautiful and poignant way, I couldn't help but love the story. Her books are definitely being moved up on my tbr as well.
Ramon Terrell is an author I had never heard of before, and after this sampling of his writing I can't understand why!
The story was a little strange, with a multi dimensional sword and travel as well as some pretty unusual creatures, but it all came together nicely and he writes in an incredibly compelling voice and style!
It's unfortunate that he doesn't have audio versions of his books, but I've already picked up his latest novel.
Jason Denzel is another that I had never heard of but will definitely be looking into his other work.
And finally, of course the bonus Dune story by Brian Herbert and Kevin J Anderson was fantastic. Some really great back story there about the Sardakar and Selucia Secunda.
In the end, I would say that this anthology has something to offer every fantasy fan, and you never know, you just might discover your new favorite author herein.
July 28, 2019
Great mix of stories and I discovered a lot of interesting authors that I haven't heard of before.
My favorite story was Fire in the Ways by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson. Perrin started out as one of my favorite characters in the Wheel of Time novels and I always felt like he could've been so much more. In this short story I finally got to see him at his best, leading a carefully selected group of people through one of the scariest places in existence.
There were a lot of other good stories as well, all the big names are here. Novik, Terry Brooks, Tad Williams and many more. We even get to jump into the world of classic Dune for a chapter. One of these days I'll have to check out the other Unfettered collections as well. I've never read a short story collection before where I enjoyed most of the stories, usually, I like a few and move on. But I could easily see myself re-reading quite a few of these in the future.
My favorite story was Fire in the Ways by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson. Perrin started out as one of my favorite characters in the Wheel of Time novels and I always felt like he could've been so much more. In this short story I finally got to see him at his best, leading a carefully selected group of people through one of the scariest places in existence.
There were a lot of other good stories as well, all the big names are here. Novik, Terry Brooks, Tad Williams and many more. We even get to jump into the world of classic Dune for a chapter. One of these days I'll have to check out the other Unfettered collections as well. I've never read a short story collection before where I enjoyed most of the stories, usually, I like a few and move on. But I could easily see myself re-reading quite a few of these in the future.
May 24, 2019
The quality of any short story collection will naturally wax and wane throughout, and Unfettered III is no exception. But the bar starts out high, and only rarely dips below exceptional. As a result, the overall reading experience left me very satisfied.
I was already a fan of Brandon Sanderson and Lev Grossman, and their stories prompted me to buy the collection in the first place. Along the way, I fell in love with Naomi Novik, Carrie Vaughan, Jason Denzel, and several others. Terry Brooks and Brian Herbert/Kevin J. Anderson have never particularly engaged me, and Delilah S. Dawson gave me the only story I wish I had skipped. But these are only small flaws in an otherwise first-rate collection.
I was already a fan of Brandon Sanderson and Lev Grossman, and their stories prompted me to buy the collection in the first place. Along the way, I fell in love with Naomi Novik, Carrie Vaughan, Jason Denzel, and several others. Terry Brooks and Brian Herbert/Kevin J. Anderson have never particularly engaged me, and Delilah S. Dawson gave me the only story I wish I had skipped. But these are only small flaws in an otherwise first-rate collection.
June 4, 2019
I may get to the rest of this book at some point, but this review is for "A Fire within the Ways" by Robert Jordan and Brandon Sanderson, the reason I got this ebook (and audiobook) from Amazon.
It was such a pleasure to enjoy another trip to the Wheel of Time universe, that really anything would have been welcome, but to get a really meaty, if non-canon, Perrin story was an absolute pleasure.
I don't want to spoil anything, but if anyone out there is on the fence about this title wondering if it's worth it for just one WoT story, the answer is an emphatic YES. The book is also for a good cause.
Highest recommendation!
It was such a pleasure to enjoy another trip to the Wheel of Time universe, that really anything would have been welcome, but to get a really meaty, if non-canon, Perrin story was an absolute pleasure.
I don't want to spoil anything, but if anyone out there is on the fence about this title wondering if it's worth it for just one WoT story, the answer is an emphatic YES. The book is also for a good cause.
Highest recommendation!
April 17, 2019
I like and don't like anthologies. I like them because it's a way to get introduced to a whole bunch of authors you may not have read from before, but I don't like them because sometimes the stories in them get really confusing out of context or don't have quite enough to them to suck me in and keep my interest. I liked most of the stories in here, and there were a few that I tabbed for a re-read. For the most part, though, I found myself losing interest in the stories or having a really hard time concentrating.
July 8, 2019
A mixed bag, as anthologies always are, and I skipped freely, but on whole definitely worth reading. Of authors familiar to me, I especially enjoyed the Megan Lindholm, Seanan McGuire, and Naomi Novik stories, and I plan to read more by Callie Bates, Anna Stephens, and Deborah A. Wolf.
November 24, 2022
The Heart Box by Callie Bates 4/5 stars
This is as an odd story about a man who loses all his family in an accident and uses magic to cut his heart out and store it in a box. He wants his heart to be silent. Because he doesn’t have a heart, he doesn’t really age and stays at the same job for over 50 years. But a woman and her daughter move in the apartment next door, and the daughter’s leukemia stirs something within him. I really like how the beginning and end almost mirror each other.
Everybody Said It Would Hurt by Lev Grossman 3/5 stars
This was an excluded piece from one of Grossman’s novels. Because I am unfamiliar with the ‘verse and its magic, I was a little confused, even when catching on to some things as the story continued. It’s a lot for a first time reader. I do like how Plum and her six cohorts were working on senior thesis projects, and the extent of the magic. The end is intriguing but not enough to get me to read the accompanying series.
A Thousand Years by Mark Lawrence3.75/5 stars
This was initially tough for me to get into, but made me think of Wheel of Time given how Norsemen and Vikings were present, yet still seemed to be a magical world. It doesn’t sit well with me that Snorri and his deceased lover had sex and a child at the ages of 14, and mom died in childbirth. Even given the circumstances of the story, they were young. His friend Olaf is amazing and is my favorite. But they accompany some men to find a Troll, only to come in contact with something even more advanced and complicated. If I hadn’t read Lawrence before, this would make me want to read his works, but his style isn’t for me.
Among a Throng of Bilious Octogenarians by Delilah S. Dawson 3/5 stars
I like that this is in the same universe as Pell (with Hearne’s blessing), but I was annoyed by how over-the-top the spoofing was and was again disappointed with this short. This was less irritating, only because it’s a shorter story. It’s about a foine young lad–and it took me about 5 minutes to realize what “foine” meant–named Barthur who is told by a pixie to go on a quest. But he needs the permission of Elders. Or the elders. Whichever. It was interesting until that point, and the end made me roll my eyes.
Blood of the Sardaukar by Brian Herbert & Kevin J. Anderson 1/5 stars
This does enrich a scene in “Dune,” but I am not a Dune fan and find a lot of it dry. This is an interesting story about Bashar Jopati Kolona’s past (and present), and his personal development.
Allanon's Quest by Terry Brooks 4.75/5 stars
I have now added “The Sword of Shannara” to my ‘to read’ list. This is a prequel to that book/trilogy, and explains how the Druid Allanon seeks out to find the last heir of an Elven King who previously kept the Warlock Lord at bay. But the Warlock has returned, and Allanon is scrambling to find anyone who still has even a drop of royal blood. The race is against the Warlock’s cronies, including the Skull Bearers. There is a good mix of horror and fantasy that draws me into the ‘verse.
Kneeling Before Jupiter by David Anthony Durham 4/5 stars
This is a dark twist on Roman politics that I like. Any young man who turns 16 between one March 15 and the next is required to make a secret sacrifice to Jupiter. Except this sacrifice isn’t the typical Virgin that we normally see in Roman-based stories. I had a strong suspicion about what would happen and while I was correct, it was still interesting to learn the exact pieces.
Stripes in the Sunset by Seanan McGuire 4.5/5 stars
This is a very interesting twist to the end of the world, when animals begin to give birth to not only their genetic offspring but also extinct species. For example, Siberian tiger cub has two Caspian tigers for its siblings. This does not only occur in zoos but among all animals types throughout the world. Humans though have a 0% birth rate, and they scramble for anything that may save humanity.
All That Glitters by Marc Turner 1.25/5 stars
I wanted to like this more, but my mind kept wandering. I didn’t like the pirate Castella and didn’t fully understand much other than the end.
The Heir Apparent by John Gwynne 1.5/5 stars
This takes place in Gwynne’s Banished Lands ‘verse and was an interesting setup until it wasn’t. Giantish is a language, but Rhin is selfish, zealous, full of hate, and terrifying. She wants to live 2000 years at the expense of anyone but her father, without actually considering the consequences of her actions. Or really, she finds those consequences more of an expectation of her royal blood. When she doesn’t get her way, she uses very dark and scary magic. I don’t like her at all. I wanted at first to give this a 2/5 but need to bump it down because of how much I dislike Rhin.
Dancing on the Edge by Deborah A. Wolf 2.5/5 stars
This dragged on for a long time, and I think it’s the third longest story. Unlike in the previous one, the lead Yaela (who is in Wolf’s “Dragon’s Legacy” series) has a reason for her hatred. She has shared her husband with 11 others, though only five have lived through an injury the husband Hadl had. He beats them and then sells them, but no one wants Yaela and her sister Haviva despite their royal blood. Yaela meets a Shadowmancer, which she can only become, and uses dark magic. It kind of made me think of some of N.K. Jemisin’s work, which I don’t always care for. So the writing is good though I am not a fan of Yaela, it just wasn’t for me.
Prologue: Second Book of The Evertide by Todd Lockwood 3.5/5 stars
This is a good food in the ‘verse, but isn’t enough to get me to read the first book of the series. A man named Magha is searching for his son and the boy’s newly bonded dragon. Yet he finds more than he bargained for.
Thasha's Cure for Cabin Fever by Robert V. S. Redick 4.75/5 stars
I had actually read the first two novels in the series this short occurs after, and didn’t find either terribly great. I wanted to read them though because of the first “Unfettered” anthology. My inclination towards this story shows that I like Redick’s short story writing but not longer prose. But this is about 10 years after the events of the fourth book, and Thasha is stuck in her mind. I like the notion that spirits can break free of magical bonds if they feel strongly about something.
How Not to Invade a Country by Anna Stephens 3/5 stars
I felt like there was too much cursing from the start. It doesn’t hold my interest and some parts make no sense. For example, some guy is an officer even though he knows nothing about the culture of the enemy that lives right across the border of their country. I liked getting into the heads of people in a fight, and Crys is a neat character. He has one blue eye and one brown, which can either be evil because of superstitious people or beneficial for those who worship the Fox god. The ending was intriguing.
The Paper Man by Peter Orullian 2.5/5 stars
This was too weird for me, and disturbing. Blood sacrifice is just chilling.
Merchants Have Maxims by Cat Rambo 3/5 stars
This was slow for me. It’s overall okay but I found my mind wandering since the type of story isn’t my thing. I know nothing about the Beasts of Tabat series, and I like how Essa thinks of equations, numbers, and maxims. The end wasn’t fully expected and it unsettled me.
Of Anchor Chains and Slow Refrains and Light Long Lost in Darkness by Ken Scholes 3.5/5 stars
My mind kept wandering during this one too. I wanted to like it and be invested in it, so I gave it an extra half star. Rudolfo and his friend Gregoric are ready to out-pirate a pirate. I found some of the story confusing but I was interested in the magicks involved.
Second Chances by Megan Lindholm 5/5 stars
I was entranced by this story, despite it being a very eerie ghost story. It’s a beautiful yet heartbreaking story about regrets and forgiveness, of the physical and mental ways humans and their ghosts experience pain and trauma. The setting of a reality show drew me in even more. I particularly like how people accept that the main character is sensitive to paranormal activity.
The Hidden by Tad Williams 2/5 stars
I struggled significantly with the names and the fact that this is an introduction with two foci. It was confusing for me as a new reader to Williams’ Orsten Ard series.
Throwdown by Scott Sigler 3/5 stars
I don’t like how the canine monstars are called pitters. Poor pit bulls! It’s overall okay but I wavered between 2.5 and 3 stars. I liked the notion of Victims (and them not being victims) and what it means to stand up for someone you can consider a friend, even if you haven’t known them for a day.
Sidekick by Carrie Vaughn 2.5/5 stars
This was quick and confusing for that reason, but I like the promise of someone being a sidekick without realizing it because all they are at first is a side character.
Hawkeye by Patrick Swenson 3.75/5 stars
This was better than I expected from the beginning. I thought I knew what the twist would be, given that the Tappen stone (very valuable) has gone missing, but I was wrong. I like the twist quite a bit. Jarrel is a fun investigator.
The Spectral Sword by Ramón Terrell 3.5/5 stars
Only the worthy can wield the spectral sword, and the sword bringsShinobu to another dimension–Imphetos, the spectral realm. Its truth is revealed at the end, but since I never heard of the word before, I just didn’t get the horror of it.
Gold Light by Anna Smith Spark 3/5 stars
I like that the disturbing aspects of this–like the fact that a man offers all of his young children up as sacrifice to a dragon–are addressed at the end. Ysleta’s brother can talk to dragons and she can as well. But she doesn’t like the fear the pair instills in people in their kingdom. A bronzesmith bellows boy helps her, and the treatment of him at the end confuses me.
The Stone Golem of Qual'Jom by Jason Denzel 3/5 stars
The drastically boring parts were balanced by some interesting parts. But we follow the life of a stone golem first through months, then decades, then centuries, and at last millennia. His goal is to preserve his master’s home while waiting for a Light that will let him see.
A Fire within the Ways by Robert Jordan & Brandon Sanderson 5/5 stars
This is the longest story, and the reason I got this book. So of course it’s a 5/5. The story icon is BEAUTIFUL.
I like that Sanderson gives multiple reasons as to why this bow non-canonical piece was cut from AMOL, though it would have been fantastic to see how Aiel, Whitecloaks, Ghealdanin, and Mayeners chat together and help each other through the Ways. The beginning is neat as the group witnesses dome of the inventions at Rand’s school, and the Ogier taking back the Ways at the end is beautiful. Gaul is bold and definitely shows off, and Bornhald has a good arc. Galad’s conversations with Perrin are quite interesting.
But yes, one would be quite confused coming into the ‘verse with this story.
Seven by Naomi Novik 3.5/5 stars
The information is interesting but the end is entirely unsatisfying. This story is about a place called Seven that has seven statues to warn of high winds and storms, but the statues came after the city. They are created by bone clay, which is poisonous, and only skilled people born of claymasons can use it. But a woman named Kath is determined to pick up where her husband left off before his death, and is given permission by an ornery man named Grovin. The last third felt like it dragged.
The Fire-Risen Ash by Shawn Speakman 4/5
I enjoyed this story of the Seelie and Unseelie courts, of the love of friendship, and how a Druid learns that turning away from her family was the best choice she could have made. The story centers around the discovery of a phoenix egg and how Richard, his fairy guide Snedeker, and the Druid Aderyn set out to help it hatch and renew the extinct species.
This is as an odd story about a man who loses all his family in an accident and uses magic to cut his heart out and store it in a box. He wants his heart to be silent. Because he doesn’t have a heart, he doesn’t really age and stays at the same job for over 50 years. But a woman and her daughter move in the apartment next door, and the daughter’s leukemia stirs something within him. I really like how the beginning and end almost mirror each other.
Everybody Said It Would Hurt by Lev Grossman 3/5 stars
This was an excluded piece from one of Grossman’s novels. Because I am unfamiliar with the ‘verse and its magic, I was a little confused, even when catching on to some things as the story continued. It’s a lot for a first time reader. I do like how Plum and her six cohorts were working on senior thesis projects, and the extent of the magic. The end is intriguing but not enough to get me to read the accompanying series.
A Thousand Years by Mark Lawrence3.75/5 stars
This was initially tough for me to get into, but made me think of Wheel of Time given how Norsemen and Vikings were present, yet still seemed to be a magical world. It doesn’t sit well with me that Snorri and his deceased lover had sex and a child at the ages of 14, and mom died in childbirth. Even given the circumstances of the story, they were young. His friend Olaf is amazing and is my favorite. But they accompany some men to find a Troll, only to come in contact with something even more advanced and complicated. If I hadn’t read Lawrence before, this would make me want to read his works, but his style isn’t for me.
Among a Throng of Bilious Octogenarians by Delilah S. Dawson 3/5 stars
I like that this is in the same universe as Pell (with Hearne’s blessing), but I was annoyed by how over-the-top the spoofing was and was again disappointed with this short. This was less irritating, only because it’s a shorter story. It’s about a foine young lad–and it took me about 5 minutes to realize what “foine” meant–named Barthur who is told by a pixie to go on a quest. But he needs the permission of Elders. Or the elders. Whichever. It was interesting until that point, and the end made me roll my eyes.
Blood of the Sardaukar by Brian Herbert & Kevin J. Anderson 1/5 stars
This does enrich a scene in “Dune,” but I am not a Dune fan and find a lot of it dry. This is an interesting story about Bashar Jopati Kolona’s past (and present), and his personal development.
Allanon's Quest by Terry Brooks 4.75/5 stars
I have now added “The Sword of Shannara” to my ‘to read’ list. This is a prequel to that book/trilogy, and explains how the Druid Allanon seeks out to find the last heir of an Elven King who previously kept the Warlock Lord at bay. But the Warlock has returned, and Allanon is scrambling to find anyone who still has even a drop of royal blood. The race is against the Warlock’s cronies, including the Skull Bearers. There is a good mix of horror and fantasy that draws me into the ‘verse.
Kneeling Before Jupiter by David Anthony Durham 4/5 stars
This is a dark twist on Roman politics that I like. Any young man who turns 16 between one March 15 and the next is required to make a secret sacrifice to Jupiter. Except this sacrifice isn’t the typical Virgin that we normally see in Roman-based stories. I had a strong suspicion about what would happen and while I was correct, it was still interesting to learn the exact pieces.
Stripes in the Sunset by Seanan McGuire 4.5/5 stars
This is a very interesting twist to the end of the world, when animals begin to give birth to not only their genetic offspring but also extinct species. For example, Siberian tiger cub has two Caspian tigers for its siblings. This does not only occur in zoos but among all animals types throughout the world. Humans though have a 0% birth rate, and they scramble for anything that may save humanity.
All That Glitters by Marc Turner 1.25/5 stars
I wanted to like this more, but my mind kept wandering. I didn’t like the pirate Castella and didn’t fully understand much other than the end.
The Heir Apparent by John Gwynne 1.5/5 stars
This takes place in Gwynne’s Banished Lands ‘verse and was an interesting setup until it wasn’t. Giantish is a language, but Rhin is selfish, zealous, full of hate, and terrifying. She wants to live 2000 years at the expense of anyone but her father, without actually considering the consequences of her actions. Or really, she finds those consequences more of an expectation of her royal blood. When she doesn’t get her way, she uses very dark and scary magic. I don’t like her at all. I wanted at first to give this a 2/5 but need to bump it down because of how much I dislike Rhin.
Dancing on the Edge by Deborah A. Wolf 2.5/5 stars
This dragged on for a long time, and I think it’s the third longest story. Unlike in the previous one, the lead Yaela (who is in Wolf’s “Dragon’s Legacy” series) has a reason for her hatred. She has shared her husband with 11 others, though only five have lived through an injury the husband Hadl had. He beats them and then sells them, but no one wants Yaela and her sister Haviva despite their royal blood. Yaela meets a Shadowmancer, which she can only become, and uses dark magic. It kind of made me think of some of N.K. Jemisin’s work, which I don’t always care for. So the writing is good though I am not a fan of Yaela, it just wasn’t for me.
Prologue: Second Book of The Evertide by Todd Lockwood 3.5/5 stars
This is a good food in the ‘verse, but isn’t enough to get me to read the first book of the series. A man named Magha is searching for his son and the boy’s newly bonded dragon. Yet he finds more than he bargained for.
Thasha's Cure for Cabin Fever by Robert V. S. Redick 4.75/5 stars
I had actually read the first two novels in the series this short occurs after, and didn’t find either terribly great. I wanted to read them though because of the first “Unfettered” anthology. My inclination towards this story shows that I like Redick’s short story writing but not longer prose. But this is about 10 years after the events of the fourth book, and Thasha is stuck in her mind. I like the notion that spirits can break free of magical bonds if they feel strongly about something.
How Not to Invade a Country by Anna Stephens 3/5 stars
I felt like there was too much cursing from the start. It doesn’t hold my interest and some parts make no sense. For example, some guy is an officer even though he knows nothing about the culture of the enemy that lives right across the border of their country. I liked getting into the heads of people in a fight, and Crys is a neat character. He has one blue eye and one brown, which can either be evil because of superstitious people or beneficial for those who worship the Fox god. The ending was intriguing.
The Paper Man by Peter Orullian 2.5/5 stars
This was too weird for me, and disturbing. Blood sacrifice is just chilling.
Merchants Have Maxims by Cat Rambo 3/5 stars
This was slow for me. It’s overall okay but I found my mind wandering since the type of story isn’t my thing. I know nothing about the Beasts of Tabat series, and I like how Essa thinks of equations, numbers, and maxims. The end wasn’t fully expected and it unsettled me.
Of Anchor Chains and Slow Refrains and Light Long Lost in Darkness by Ken Scholes 3.5/5 stars
My mind kept wandering during this one too. I wanted to like it and be invested in it, so I gave it an extra half star. Rudolfo and his friend Gregoric are ready to out-pirate a pirate. I found some of the story confusing but I was interested in the magicks involved.
Second Chances by Megan Lindholm 5/5 stars
I was entranced by this story, despite it being a very eerie ghost story. It’s a beautiful yet heartbreaking story about regrets and forgiveness, of the physical and mental ways humans and their ghosts experience pain and trauma. The setting of a reality show drew me in even more. I particularly like how people accept that the main character is sensitive to paranormal activity.
The Hidden by Tad Williams 2/5 stars
I struggled significantly with the names and the fact that this is an introduction with two foci. It was confusing for me as a new reader to Williams’ Orsten Ard series.
Throwdown by Scott Sigler 3/5 stars
I don’t like how the canine monstars are called pitters. Poor pit bulls! It’s overall okay but I wavered between 2.5 and 3 stars. I liked the notion of Victims (and them not being victims) and what it means to stand up for someone you can consider a friend, even if you haven’t known them for a day.
Sidekick by Carrie Vaughn 2.5/5 stars
This was quick and confusing for that reason, but I like the promise of someone being a sidekick without realizing it because all they are at first is a side character.
Hawkeye by Patrick Swenson 3.75/5 stars
This was better than I expected from the beginning. I thought I knew what the twist would be, given that the Tappen stone (very valuable) has gone missing, but I was wrong. I like the twist quite a bit. Jarrel is a fun investigator.
The Spectral Sword by Ramón Terrell 3.5/5 stars
Only the worthy can wield the spectral sword, and the sword bringsShinobu to another dimension–Imphetos, the spectral realm. Its truth is revealed at the end, but since I never heard of the word before, I just didn’t get the horror of it.
Gold Light by Anna Smith Spark 3/5 stars
I like that the disturbing aspects of this–like the fact that a man offers all of his young children up as sacrifice to a dragon–are addressed at the end. Ysleta’s brother can talk to dragons and she can as well. But she doesn’t like the fear the pair instills in people in their kingdom. A bronzesmith bellows boy helps her, and the treatment of him at the end confuses me.
The Stone Golem of Qual'Jom by Jason Denzel 3/5 stars
The drastically boring parts were balanced by some interesting parts. But we follow the life of a stone golem first through months, then decades, then centuries, and at last millennia. His goal is to preserve his master’s home while waiting for a Light that will let him see.
A Fire within the Ways by Robert Jordan & Brandon Sanderson 5/5 stars
This is the longest story, and the reason I got this book. So of course it’s a 5/5. The story icon is BEAUTIFUL.
I like that Sanderson gives multiple reasons as to why this bow non-canonical piece was cut from AMOL, though it would have been fantastic to see how Aiel, Whitecloaks, Ghealdanin, and Mayeners chat together and help each other through the Ways. The beginning is neat as the group witnesses dome of the inventions at Rand’s school, and the Ogier taking back the Ways at the end is beautiful. Gaul is bold and definitely shows off, and Bornhald has a good arc. Galad’s conversations with Perrin are quite interesting.
But yes, one would be quite confused coming into the ‘verse with this story.
Seven by Naomi Novik 3.5/5 stars
The information is interesting but the end is entirely unsatisfying. This story is about a place called Seven that has seven statues to warn of high winds and storms, but the statues came after the city. They are created by bone clay, which is poisonous, and only skilled people born of claymasons can use it. But a woman named Kath is determined to pick up where her husband left off before his death, and is given permission by an ornery man named Grovin. The last third felt like it dragged.
The Fire-Risen Ash by Shawn Speakman 4/5
I enjoyed this story of the Seelie and Unseelie courts, of the love of friendship, and how a Druid learns that turning away from her family was the best choice she could have made. The story centers around the discovery of a phoenix egg and how Richard, his fairy guide Snedeker, and the Druid Aderyn set out to help it hatch and renew the extinct species.
May 27, 2019
A fantastic collection of short stories. There were one or two that did not impress me, but for an anthology, this is a superb collection of stories. a great way to get introduced to some authors that I do not have familiarity with.
June 30, 2019
I wrote a story by story review of a publishers ARC which was first published on the fantasy-hive.co.uk website in 2 parts
https://fantasy-hive.co.uk/2019/03/un...
and
https://fantasy-hive.co.uk/2019/06/un...
Each story in Unfettered III is prefaced by a short authorial piece setting the context and inspiration for that contributor’s piece story. It is an interesting feature that I hadn’t noticed in other anthologies and brings into sharp relief the two main camps into which the contributors to this substantial and varied collection can be divided.
The majority have taken the chance to give us a deeper insight into one of their main works through a related short story. Either the back story to a much-loved character, an insight into a key event seen from a different minor character’s perspective, or some well-crafted extract that fell to the cutting room floor in the brutal cut and thrust of editing.
A minority of contributors have stepped entirely outside their previous oeuvre to deliver a standalone tale of one form or another.
To be fair, whatever their origins, there are several tales which straddle that simple divide – birthed in a larger milieu yet with the vibrancy of a self-contained story that begs neither antecedents nor successors. There are others where the ending more explicitly beckons you to follow the author into the greater work on which the story drew.
Since the total review of all the stories exceeds Goodreads character limit I will just paste mini reviews of my favourite stories here.
The Stone Golem of Qual’jom by Jason Denzel
As an eternity unfolds in Denzel’s story, it is impossible not to feel empathy for a lump of stone. Golems are a rich vein for fantasy authors to explore – the fantasy equivalent of sci-fi’s robots with their incredible strengths, endless patience, blind obedience and the inevitable psyche-warping contradictions in seeking to protect without harming.
The first person perspective of golem stories enhances their poignancy, and as the eons stretch out before Denzel’s golem, I was reminded of H.G. Wells’ time traveller watching the millennia fly by in an instant of sitting on his machine, or David Lowery’s gently mesmerising film “A Ghost Story” starring Casey Affleck, described as a “singular exploration of legacy, love, loss, and the enormity of existence.” At times too, the golem’s experience evoked N.K. Jemisin’s depiction of a living, sensing planet in her Broken Earth trilogy.
A majestically sweeping evocation of the totality of existence in a single short story.
Throwdown by Scott Sigler
Sigler picks up in Unfettered III where he left off with Unfettered II, making this the second in a potential series of short stories about Lisa, a glass-throwing killer on the run. ‘Glass-throwing’ here means throwing lethal slivers of sharpened glass – the only weapon in a future world where all metal has wasted to rust.
I really enjoyed this story which combines both the sense of backstory you get with a series and the completeness of an arc you get from a standalone. While there were a few irksome typos – more so than elsewhere in the anthology – the central spine to the story held me tight. Lisa, trapped by obligation and circumstance, is forced into a true Mexican standoff, part gunfight, part duel. I daren’t say more than. Just – wow.
Seven by Naomi Novik
Novik’s standalone story struck home more sharply than most, not just for its quality but also for its poignant dedication to Kathy Speakman, who inspired it but did not get to read it.
I liked this one so much – a patriarchal society in an accidentally-named city of Seven, where master potters are revered with the same fervour as a modern pop star and the potters in turn aspire to be the one permitted to work with the lethal but alluring white clay. Grandmasters, once elevated to their lofty post, inevitably enjoy a few short years of intense but fantastic creativity (like Schubert in his period of remission) before an accumulation of injuries from sharps hidden within the white clay carries them off.
Into this small but perfectly formed fantasy world comes Kath, widow of a master potter, with children to feed and no means of support beyond bringing her husband’s unfinished stock to fire and sell. And standing-grim faced in defence of pottery proprieties is Grovin.
I love the writing; the gentle evocation of setting and character, of the value of art, of the differences in a man and a woman’s approach to peril – one blinded by opportunity, the other weighed by responsibility. This story stuck with me.
Dancing on the Edge by Deborah A. Wolf
Wolf conjures up the desperate desert plight of Yaela, trapped by day away from the sun’s heat in a shadowy crevice with her crippled abusive husband and the rest of his nag of wives (a collective term I guess was invented by the overpowered patriarchy of the world). Like its heroine Yaela, this linked story stands well enough and strong enough on its own two feet.
The magic – the shadows in which Yaela wraps herself to hunt and trap and brave the sun’s heat, the dance she weaves with another magician – are all conveyed with a touch as light and sure as a lizard’s foot on boiling sands.
The first-person narrative gives an additional intimacy, Yaela’s voice and tone running through the narrative to help immerse the reader in a blunt, simple world of persecution and discrimination, of marriage as slavery in a hostile environment. The reader yearns to cheer for the moment when Yaela will turn and Dance on the edge for herself and no one else.
The Paper Man by Peter Orullian
This was my favourite story of the first half of the anthology, perhaps because it appealed so much to the writer in me. Indeed, it may resonate more with writers than readers. Orullian takes a different angle on Stephen King’s Misery in making horror out of a writer’s life and struggle. Writing it is clear is a torture as sharp and piercing as a paper cut.
Without quite plumbing the hobbling depths of King’s work there is something so apposite about an author with writer’s block being haunted by a blank sheet of paper. In this case the paper shapes itself into a curmudgeonly homunculous berating Orullian’s protagonist for his lack of productivity with the refrain You owe the paper.
There are other lines to smile at as they batter against the fourth wall.
“Imagination is more important than knowledge.” A pithy saying to comfort those who detour past college to start life.
Or
Resting on his laurels, or maybe planting them was closer.
And finally then
I want to write, I need to write but what do I write?
https://fantasy-hive.co.uk/2019/03/un...
and
https://fantasy-hive.co.uk/2019/06/un...
Each story in Unfettered III is prefaced by a short authorial piece setting the context and inspiration for that contributor’s piece story. It is an interesting feature that I hadn’t noticed in other anthologies and brings into sharp relief the two main camps into which the contributors to this substantial and varied collection can be divided.
The majority have taken the chance to give us a deeper insight into one of their main works through a related short story. Either the back story to a much-loved character, an insight into a key event seen from a different minor character’s perspective, or some well-crafted extract that fell to the cutting room floor in the brutal cut and thrust of editing.
A minority of contributors have stepped entirely outside their previous oeuvre to deliver a standalone tale of one form or another.
To be fair, whatever their origins, there are several tales which straddle that simple divide – birthed in a larger milieu yet with the vibrancy of a self-contained story that begs neither antecedents nor successors. There are others where the ending more explicitly beckons you to follow the author into the greater work on which the story drew.
Since the total review of all the stories exceeds Goodreads character limit I will just paste mini reviews of my favourite stories here.
The Stone Golem of Qual’jom by Jason Denzel
As an eternity unfolds in Denzel’s story, it is impossible not to feel empathy for a lump of stone. Golems are a rich vein for fantasy authors to explore – the fantasy equivalent of sci-fi’s robots with their incredible strengths, endless patience, blind obedience and the inevitable psyche-warping contradictions in seeking to protect without harming.
The first person perspective of golem stories enhances their poignancy, and as the eons stretch out before Denzel’s golem, I was reminded of H.G. Wells’ time traveller watching the millennia fly by in an instant of sitting on his machine, or David Lowery’s gently mesmerising film “A Ghost Story” starring Casey Affleck, described as a “singular exploration of legacy, love, loss, and the enormity of existence.” At times too, the golem’s experience evoked N.K. Jemisin’s depiction of a living, sensing planet in her Broken Earth trilogy.
A majestically sweeping evocation of the totality of existence in a single short story.
Throwdown by Scott Sigler
Sigler picks up in Unfettered III where he left off with Unfettered II, making this the second in a potential series of short stories about Lisa, a glass-throwing killer on the run. ‘Glass-throwing’ here means throwing lethal slivers of sharpened glass – the only weapon in a future world where all metal has wasted to rust.
I really enjoyed this story which combines both the sense of backstory you get with a series and the completeness of an arc you get from a standalone. While there were a few irksome typos – more so than elsewhere in the anthology – the central spine to the story held me tight. Lisa, trapped by obligation and circumstance, is forced into a true Mexican standoff, part gunfight, part duel. I daren’t say more than. Just – wow.
Seven by Naomi Novik
Novik’s standalone story struck home more sharply than most, not just for its quality but also for its poignant dedication to Kathy Speakman, who inspired it but did not get to read it.
I liked this one so much – a patriarchal society in an accidentally-named city of Seven, where master potters are revered with the same fervour as a modern pop star and the potters in turn aspire to be the one permitted to work with the lethal but alluring white clay. Grandmasters, once elevated to their lofty post, inevitably enjoy a few short years of intense but fantastic creativity (like Schubert in his period of remission) before an accumulation of injuries from sharps hidden within the white clay carries them off.
Into this small but perfectly formed fantasy world comes Kath, widow of a master potter, with children to feed and no means of support beyond bringing her husband’s unfinished stock to fire and sell. And standing-grim faced in defence of pottery proprieties is Grovin.
I love the writing; the gentle evocation of setting and character, of the value of art, of the differences in a man and a woman’s approach to peril – one blinded by opportunity, the other weighed by responsibility. This story stuck with me.
Dancing on the Edge by Deborah A. Wolf
Wolf conjures up the desperate desert plight of Yaela, trapped by day away from the sun’s heat in a shadowy crevice with her crippled abusive husband and the rest of his nag of wives (a collective term I guess was invented by the overpowered patriarchy of the world). Like its heroine Yaela, this linked story stands well enough and strong enough on its own two feet.
The magic – the shadows in which Yaela wraps herself to hunt and trap and brave the sun’s heat, the dance she weaves with another magician – are all conveyed with a touch as light and sure as a lizard’s foot on boiling sands.
The first-person narrative gives an additional intimacy, Yaela’s voice and tone running through the narrative to help immerse the reader in a blunt, simple world of persecution and discrimination, of marriage as slavery in a hostile environment. The reader yearns to cheer for the moment when Yaela will turn and Dance on the edge for herself and no one else.
The Paper Man by Peter Orullian
This was my favourite story of the first half of the anthology, perhaps because it appealed so much to the writer in me. Indeed, it may resonate more with writers than readers. Orullian takes a different angle on Stephen King’s Misery in making horror out of a writer’s life and struggle. Writing it is clear is a torture as sharp and piercing as a paper cut.
Without quite plumbing the hobbling depths of King’s work there is something so apposite about an author with writer’s block being haunted by a blank sheet of paper. In this case the paper shapes itself into a curmudgeonly homunculous berating Orullian’s protagonist for his lack of productivity with the refrain You owe the paper.
There are other lines to smile at as they batter against the fourth wall.
“Imagination is more important than knowledge.” A pithy saying to comfort those who detour past college to start life.
Or
Resting on his laurels, or maybe planting them was closer.
And finally then
I want to write, I need to write but what do I write?
March 1, 2019
This review concerns "The Fire Within The Ways," the "deleted scene" from The Wheel of Time. I look forward to reading the other stories at a more leisurely pace, but this was the bit that drove my purchase.
Like deleted scenes from movies, you probably have to be a true fan, or interested in the craft of editing, to enjoy cut chapters. I happen to be both. From a craft level, Brandon Sanderson's comments about the directionality of the story--forward or backward-looking--being the reason this was cut was interesting. It's an exciting scene, filled with interesting details, but indeed, the outcome doesn't move the story towards the Last Battle. But as a fan, I want to know about The Ways and Machin Shin. I want to know if there is hope there, or does a seed of evil remain in a pocket dimension, like a pus-filled blister? And, of course, I'm excited to see Perrin grow. And I'm excited that... well, that would be a spoiler. This gives me that. I can fold it into my view of the world of The Wheel of Time, and how it has changed since The Last Battle. It's more fodder for daydreams.
I loved it.
Like deleted scenes from movies, you probably have to be a true fan, or interested in the craft of editing, to enjoy cut chapters. I happen to be both. From a craft level, Brandon Sanderson's comments about the directionality of the story--forward or backward-looking--being the reason this was cut was interesting. It's an exciting scene, filled with interesting details, but indeed, the outcome doesn't move the story towards the Last Battle. But as a fan, I want to know about The Ways and Machin Shin. I want to know if there is hope there, or does a seed of evil remain in a pocket dimension, like a pus-filled blister? And, of course, I'm excited to see Perrin grow. And I'm excited that... well, that would be a spoiler. This gives me that. I can fold it into my view of the world of The Wheel of Time, and how it has changed since The Last Battle. It's more fodder for daydreams.
I loved it.
May 5, 2019
Excellent anthology! Standouts for me were Terry Brooks, David Anthony Durham, Seanan McGuire, John Gwynne, Deborah A Wolf, Anna Stephens, Cat Rambo, Ken Scholes, Megan Lindholm, Scott Sigler, and Jason Denzel***** My Favorite One!!!
February 12, 2019
I received an advance copy as part of the giveaway. I really wanted the book for the Wheel of Time short story, and it did not disappoint. I have not yet gotten to all of the other short stories, but I'm hopeful they'll get me interested in some of those series as well.
February 28, 2019
I won this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway and was very excited. I mostly wanted it for the Wheel of Time story, which was fantastic. The others I've read so far are also very good. Can't wait to read the rest
March 23, 2019
Honestly, I just picked this book to read more about The Wheel of Time. I have not read the rest of the stories in it. I loved the Perrin angle in the Ways and the entry of the Ogier was simply amazing. I understand why it wasn't there in the original books. Not going to reveal any more spoilers.
April 1, 2019
NEW WHEEL OF TIME SHORT STORY!
Problem with anthologies, I am not as invested with all the stories.
I do recommend you read it, maybe find a new author, and there was some amazing stories. A standout unexpected to me was the story Sidekick!
Did I mention a new WoT story!
Problem with anthologies, I am not as invested with all the stories.
I do recommend you read it, maybe find a new author, and there was some amazing stories. A standout unexpected to me was the story Sidekick!
Did I mention a new WoT story!
April 22, 2019
Wonderful collection of varied stories.
August 4, 2020
The concept of a for-charity anthology with lots of big names is really cool, but they leaned a bit too heavily on "recognition" factor, in my opinion. Most of these stories are prequels, side stories, or snippets from established series, and since I had either not read or wasn't intensely familiar with most of them, they got to be boring and I frankly skimmed through most of the book. It did make the few standalone stories really pop, though, so those were nice!
Some highlights:
"Stripes in the Sunset", Seanan McGuire - This was the reason I bought the anthology, and McGuire doesn't disappoint in concept. Extinct animals start being born from their closely-related extant cousins, while human children stop being conceived at all; the message is one of the earth taking back from us what we've failed to fully appreciate. I enjoyed the detail of how deeply zookeepers care for their charges, despite the lack of any attempt to explain the story's premise beyond "wouldn't this be interesting".
"All That Glitters", Marc Turner - This one was a fun adventure, and I actually feel like I'd be interested in these characters if they exist in a larger book. (Kind of a rarity in the anthology!)
"Dancing on the Edge", Deborah A Wolf - I enjoyed the worldbuilding in this one a lot, even though it got a bit impenetrable at times. The character is also really thoroughly written, so I can absolutely see how this is the beginning to her story. Not sure whether the actual series is about her, but probably worth looking up.
"How Not to Invade a Country", Anna Stephens - This one was funny, and didn't depend on knowing the world so it was entertaining on its own.
"Merchants Have Maxims", Cat Rambo - It was hard to get into this one, but I ended up liking the narrative voice by the end. I don't know that it would interest me enough to look into the series it's from, but the worldbuilding is all solid and the plot was well-constructed, so maybe!
"Second Chances", Megan Lindholm - Probably my favorite in the anthology, not least because it was the most unique and vivid. (Plus I'd just spent a weekend visiting my grandmother who watches HGTV 24/7, and Lindholm has the tone down *perfectly*). I enjoyed her take on the ghost, and on the regular person who just wants to do her job but ends up learning something important.
"Sidekick", Carrie Vaughn - This one was cute, if a little densely written. I enjoyed that it's an "origin story" of the sidekick rather than of the hero.
There were probably other good ones I happened to skim over, and several not-good ones I'm choosing not to get into (*cough*Allanon*cough*). In the end, though, I don't know that the anthology was worth the small-press price I paid, even though it is for charity.
Some highlights:
"Stripes in the Sunset", Seanan McGuire - This was the reason I bought the anthology, and McGuire doesn't disappoint in concept. Extinct animals start being born from their closely-related extant cousins, while human children stop being conceived at all; the message is one of the earth taking back from us what we've failed to fully appreciate. I enjoyed the detail of how deeply zookeepers care for their charges, despite the lack of any attempt to explain the story's premise beyond "wouldn't this be interesting".
"All That Glitters", Marc Turner - This one was a fun adventure, and I actually feel like I'd be interested in these characters if they exist in a larger book. (Kind of a rarity in the anthology!)
"Dancing on the Edge", Deborah A Wolf - I enjoyed the worldbuilding in this one a lot, even though it got a bit impenetrable at times. The character is also really thoroughly written, so I can absolutely see how this is the beginning to her story. Not sure whether the actual series is about her, but probably worth looking up.
"How Not to Invade a Country", Anna Stephens - This one was funny, and didn't depend on knowing the world so it was entertaining on its own.
"Merchants Have Maxims", Cat Rambo - It was hard to get into this one, but I ended up liking the narrative voice by the end. I don't know that it would interest me enough to look into the series it's from, but the worldbuilding is all solid and the plot was well-constructed, so maybe!
"Second Chances", Megan Lindholm - Probably my favorite in the anthology, not least because it was the most unique and vivid. (Plus I'd just spent a weekend visiting my grandmother who watches HGTV 24/7, and Lindholm has the tone down *perfectly*). I enjoyed her take on the ghost, and on the regular person who just wants to do her job but ends up learning something important.
"Sidekick", Carrie Vaughn - This one was cute, if a little densely written. I enjoyed that it's an "origin story" of the sidekick rather than of the hero.
There were probably other good ones I happened to skim over, and several not-good ones I'm choosing not to get into (*cough*Allanon*cough*). In the end, though, I don't know that the anthology was worth the small-press price I paid, even though it is for charity.
May 15, 2019
So many excellent authors and tales of magic. The intro story was quite good as a start to the collection with a bit of optimism that I hadn't expected given the subject matter. Given the title I suspected a bit of grunge music might come into play but I was wrong. Following that we have Lev returning us to the Magicians world with a short segue about Plum and her senior project.
After that we have a nice mix of styles from writers I know and love and many from those I haven't read before which is great. One of the reasons I like anthologies to introduce authors is the low investment in time and money to get a taste of whether you like their works or not.
Shawn's tale provides a strong finish to the book like the peaty aftertaste of good dram of single malt scotch with Fire-Risen Ash and a return to the Knightly Mage and his friend Snedeker from Unfettered II.
The tale has a Dr. Strange meets Lloyd Alexander in the Stardust movie vibe from this series which is full of good heart but real danger. Like Mr Rogers ran an Ars Magica/Mage game for adults with a ton of hope (sans the troll-fack of course). These days we need that heart and optimism or at least I do as it is too easy to let the ashterbach win but with the gift of each other's care and love we can triumph. Very much a worthwhile reading experience from the 'Masters of Fantasy'.
After that we have a nice mix of styles from writers I know and love and many from those I haven't read before which is great. One of the reasons I like anthologies to introduce authors is the low investment in time and money to get a taste of whether you like their works or not.
Shawn's tale provides a strong finish to the book like the peaty aftertaste of good dram of single malt scotch with Fire-Risen Ash and a return to the Knightly Mage and his friend Snedeker from Unfettered II.
The tale has a Dr. Strange meets Lloyd Alexander in the Stardust movie vibe from this series which is full of good heart but real danger. Like Mr Rogers ran an Ars Magica/Mage game for adults with a ton of hope (sans the troll-fack of course). These days we need that heart and optimism or at least I do as it is too easy to let the ashterbach win but with the gift of each other's care and love we can triumph. Very much a worthwhile reading experience from the 'Masters of Fantasy'.
October 17, 2020
Unfettered is a very nice concept thought up by Shawn Speakman: a contribution based anthology book. Writers provide short stories, complete with a short introduction, as charity. The original Unfettered book was a way by which writers helped Speakman cover some of his medical expenses after a cancer diagnosis and the idea continued, helping others with the same problem. This way of doing things, I believe, promotes a more liberating way of writing. There is no publisher pressure, no common theme, writers are just exploring their own worlds, trying things out.
Unfettered III contains 28 shorts stories from authors like Brandon Sanderson, Lev Grossman, Mark Lawrence, Terry Brooks, Brian Herbert, Scott Sigler and more. Funny enough, it was Sanderson's own addition to the Wheel of Time literature that I found most tedious to finish, mostly because I couldn't remember what the books were about anymore and who all the characters were. But the stories were good and, even if the book is twice as large as I think it should have been, it was entertaining. Try it out, you might enjoy this format.
Unfettered III contains 28 shorts stories from authors like Brandon Sanderson, Lev Grossman, Mark Lawrence, Terry Brooks, Brian Herbert, Scott Sigler and more. Funny enough, it was Sanderson's own addition to the Wheel of Time literature that I found most tedious to finish, mostly because I couldn't remember what the books were about anymore and who all the characters were. But the stories were good and, even if the book is twice as large as I think it should have been, it was entertaining. Try it out, you might enjoy this format.
April 3, 2022
I was mostly unimpressed with the first Unfettered volume, and pleasantly surprised at the second in comparison. The improvement between them gave me hope for this third volume, that it might continue the trend. (Indeed, my disappointment with the first meant I delayed a year and a half before daring the second; this time, only three months…)
I was to be disappointed.
This is not to say that there weren't some decent, competent stories within the anthology. There were. Five of twenty-nine were good. They were offset by three (or maybe four) that were unreadable. (I am learning, slowly, to not waste my time with the rubbish.) The rest were eminently forgetable. That's not a good track record.
I appreciate that it's for a good cause, and that the principle behind the series – that anything is accepted on the basis that it is a donation – means that Speakman can't really reject submissions. But some degree of respect for the readers is due, too.
I was to be disappointed.
This is not to say that there weren't some decent, competent stories within the anthology. There were. Five of twenty-nine were good. They were offset by three (or maybe four) that were unreadable. (I am learning, slowly, to not waste my time with the rubbish.) The rest were eminently forgetable. That's not a good track record.
I appreciate that it's for a good cause, and that the principle behind the series – that anything is accepted on the basis that it is a donation – means that Speakman can't really reject submissions. But some degree of respect for the readers is due, too.
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