Book Reviews, Short Stories

Short Fiction Friday: Two “Wild Cards” stories from Tor.com

6 Comments

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Last weekend I had the privilege of spending the weekend at Kansas City’s longest-running science fiction convention, ConQuest. In its 44th year, ConQuest boasted a powerful lineup with Author Guest of Honor Patrick Rothfuss, Artist Guest of Honor John Picacio, and a visit from George R.R. Martin. After seeing this stellar group throughout the weekend, I found it very serendipitous to discover two new stories set in the Wild Cards universe created by George R.R. Martin. Additionally, John Picacio created the artwork for both stories.

I was able to see original art for the image shown here of the button man and I assure you John’s pencil work is incredible.

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The two new stories featured on Tor.com’s website were acquired and edited by George R.R. Martin. One is written by Cherie Priest and the other by Paul Cornell.

I’ve enjoyed Priest’s work for some time and had been anxious to try Cornell’s. I was not disappointed by either effort.

For those unfamiliar with the Wild Cards universe, as I was, Paul Cornell’s story gives enough background information to get you up to speed. I mention in my review that I felt that Cornell’s story shares a kinship with the Newford tales of Charles de Lint.

Cherie Priest’s story has a great noir vibe that stays consistent throughout. Her protagonist is flawed but you cannot help but be intrigued by him and his unique problem.

To read the stories themselves, and/or to check out my non-spoiler review, head on over to SF Signal. Otherwise, I hope everyone has a great weekend and get lots of reading done.

6 thoughts on “Short Fiction Friday: Two “Wild Cards” stories from Tor.com”

  1. I’ve not read any of the Wildcards stories, but I’ve long been intrigued. Perhaps I’ll have to check these shorts out. Thanks, Carl!

    1. These are a good place to start Logan, as these are two first-rate authors.

  2. I really like that second illustration, which I first saw over on the TOR site.

    1. Me too, and they both work really well with the title graphics included. It was fun to see these original pencils at Spectrum and Conquest 44.

  3. Wow the illustrations are cool, especially that second one. You are a fountain of information Carl. Hadn’t heard of the Wildcard stories until now.

    1. I can thank Jeff for what I know about the Wild Cards stories as he is a long-time fan of George RR Martin. It was fun for me to actually experience a couple of these for myself, finally. Glad the images by John Picacio spurred me on to do so.

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