by Kate Elliott
First published 2015
A girl discovers her emotions can awaken the magic sleeping in her war-torn city in "The Memory of Peace." Two princesses must join forces in "The Queen's Garden" to save their realm from their father's corrupt ambitions. A chieftain's daughter seeks an unexpected partner on her journey toward independence in "Riding the Shore of the River of Death." These tales showcase Elliott's talent for creating complex female protagonists who face impossible choices and fight for what matters most. Each story presents women who refuse to accept the limitations others place on them. They navigate political intrigue, harness magical powers, and forge alliances that will determine the fate of kingdoms. Elliott draws from historical traditions to build her imaginary worlds, giving weight and authenticity to her characters' struggles. The collection demonstrates why Elliott's voice resonates so strongly in fantasy fiction, offering compact adventures that capture the scope and emotional depth of her longer works.
Genres: fiction, short-stories, fantasy
Vibes: atmospheric, emotional, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, impossible-choices
384 pages · Kindle Edition · Tachyon Publications