Feared by enemies abroad and even those in her own kingdom, she has risen to the pinnacles of power and influence at the court in Kingfountain. But when news comes that the rival of the Queen is dead, Ankarette must go on her most dangerous mission yet. To prove whether a war of succession fought years before is truly over or whether a new threat is about to emerge from the shadows. For some will stop at nothing to satisfy their thirst for revenge, even if they must reach beyond the grave to do it.

    Valente, and many others. Selecting the best fiction from Asimov's, F&SF, Strange Horizons, Subterranean, Tor.com, and other top venues, The Year's Best Science Fiction & Fantasy is your guide to magical realms and worlds beyond tomorrow.

    After Heartsong and before Brothersong comes Feralsong, a short story from four different perspectives about what it means to lose your mind.January 10, 2020Exclusive at tjklunebooks.com_______________Status: CompleteWords: 8,105

     In the tenth court of hell, spirits wealthy enough to bribe the bureaucrats of the underworld can avoid both the torments of hell and the irreversible change of reincarnation. It's a comfortable undeath … even for Siew Tsin. She didn't choose to be married to the richest man in hell, but she's reconciled. Until her husband brings home a new bride. Yonghua is an artificial woman crafted from terracotta. What she is may change hell for good. Who she is will transform Siew Tsin. And as they grow closer, the mystery of Yonghua's creation will draw Siew Tsin into a conspiracy where the stakes are eternal life – or a very final death. THE TERRACOTTA BRIDE is an 11,000-word standalone fantasy novelette.