Since I’m still having trouble reviewing books, I figured I would review some shorter pieces I’ve read recently. They’re all available online for free reading too, so be sure to click on the links to read them!
“The Study of Monstrosities” by Greg Kurzawa – What are men without their masks? And what was the mask without the man? Unsettling and creepy, this short story reminds me both of the Lovecraft mythos and The Monstrumologist.
“3 Snake Leaves” by Emily Carroll – He married the princess, agreeing that either one of them would be buried alive with whichever one of them perished first. Two snakes provide an alternative to the prince’s unfortunate plight, but nothing can save the prince and princess’ tale from an ill-fated conclusion. This ending is presented from two different point of views depending on the character you click on. A very dark and haunting comic ballad.
“When We Were Heroes” by Daniel Abraham – An engaging, well-written look at the effects that celebrity status/notoriety as well futility/frustration/tragedy have on super-powered people. Curveball is trying to achieve something normal while Bugsy is trying to find something to distract him from anything that matters. I’ve yet to read a Wild Cards anthology, but now I think I might have to check one of the newer ones out. Or just more Daniel Abraham.
CSI: Librarian 
Muahahaha, perhaps I shall get you hooked on Daniel Abraham after all… (He has a small series of steampunk adventure shorts, too, plus his epic sci-fi and epic fantasy series. From all accounts, The Dagger and the Coin is less of a downer than The Long Price Quartet.)
I need to get to Abraham’s works. I have one of his books here on the shelf waiting for me. Thank you for sharing these.