G. V. Anderson

"The Lay if Lilyfinger" is such a gorgeously written and deeply-realized work, and it just sweeps the reader right into a fantastic world of music, heritage, storytelling, and the things that one is willing to give up in pursuit of something bigger. It's obvious that Anderson has so much of this world worked out and imagined; it is so SO easy to just step right into the story alongside the characters and follow them along. Anderson also has a vivid, strong prose that really suits the book - show more it's very descriptive without being superfluous (actually it's very fitting to the main character, Saaba-niszak, too). I saw on her website that Anderson is working on her first full-length novel and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next! show less

In the space of two novelettes I’ve become downright hooked on G.V. Anderson’s writing! “Hearts in the Hard Ground” is a story about ghosts and haunting, but not so much the creepy Halloween ones. This is more the haunting that happens after the loss of a loved one, the ghosts left behind, and ways to move on and full empty spaces with new life. Anderson captures grief and guilt so sharply, and with prose that borders on spoken poetry. Each and every word adds another layer of depth, show more creating a story that feels much longer than it actually is. I’ve never read anything quite like this, which I think is partially why I was surprised I liked it so much, but definitely want to read more in the future! show less

Really like this one. So poignant and aching, but also hopeful. The ending made me tear up, but, like, in a happy way.

Won the 2017 World Fantasy Award for Short Fiction
Available from strangehorizons: http://strangehorizons.com/fiction/das-steingeschopf/
The title is in German but the story is in English

I found it to be very, pleasantly unique.
Starts with "I'd not long been made journeyman when the Schöpfers' Guild gave me my first commission in 1928. Frau Leitner from Bavaria had written to request a small restoration..."
Our MC arrives at his assignment and is in shock by what he has been called to work show more on. He says he is not worthy of the restoration. The "owner" says she cannot afford a master and off and running our story goes.

I found myself a bit confused and if I'm honest, I felt a bit stupid at times with my lack of understanding. There is some German spoken, some history given but in between that, was a wonderful story of loyalty, connection and trust.

Our MC is a gay man, therefore the LGBTQ tag beyond that it's a bit silly to tag it such. show less