“I feel a bit unqualified,” I confessed to my dad. “A lowly indie author criticizing a Nebula award winner?” The man who always provides unflinchingly candid feedback on my manuscripts observed that acclaimed works don't always stand on their own merit. “Call it like you see it,” he advised. So I will. Ancillary Mercy let... Continue Reading →
Review: “Ancillary Sword” by Ann Leckie
Ancillary Sword lacks some sharpness, but still holds an edge as unique science fiction literature. The story resumes where its predecessor Ancillary Justice left off. Breq, now captain of an imperial ship, embarks on an errand to a neighboring star system where social conflicts simmer. Leckie seems determined to include the panoply of trending laments: colonialism, the plight... Continue Reading →
Review: “Ancillary Justice” by Ann Leckie
Last year my Laddie bought me a wine caddy puzzle for Yule. There can’t be much challenge in such a basic construction, I thought. But the sleek toy proved deceptively complex. How does the hook fit into the loop? And what do the balls have to do with it?! It took some mental effort and... Continue Reading →