Friday, December 18, 2015

Bannerless, by Carrie Vaughn

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(Post Apocalypse; Coast Road) In a post-apocalypse US, Enid investigates a household that is reportedly hosting an unapproved pregnancy. Note: This story stands alone; it is not part 3 of anything. (7,575 words; Time: 25m)

Rating: ★★★★★ Award-Worthy
Recommended By: GDozois:5 NClarke

"," by (edited by John Joseph Adams and Hugh Howey), appeared in (RSR review), published on by .

Mini-Review (click to view--possible spoilers)

Pro: As Enid's investigation proceeds, we learn all about her civilization with no infodumps. Both she and her sidekick become real people to us, as does Aren, and we really care about the outcome.

Enid administers justice, leavened with mercy. We're happy to see that she plans to postpone her retirement.

Con: Enid's investigation is a little too smooth. Her opposition never seem to seriously challenge her abilities.

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Carrie Vaughn Info: Interviews, Websites, ISFDB, FreeSFOnline

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5 comments (may contain spoilers):

  1. Isn't this a short story, at that word count?

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  2. Isn't this a short story, at that word count?

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  3. I did an exact word count based on the free online copy, and it turns out that it's 80 words over the Novelette limit. Thanks for pointing this out.

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  4. I think it's not quite award-worthy because of it's small scope, but it's definitely one I would recommend even to non-SFF fans as a "gateway" story that's very well written (an easy read) with believable characters and a thoughtful message that stays with you.

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  5. I really liked it but I like Carrie Vaughn's short works. I agree with the 5-star rating. Maybe 4 1/2. Yes - very easy to read and well-written.

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