Chains, by A.J. Hartley

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(Steam Punk) Anglet is an indentured laborer working on a suspension bridge. Sir William sees something in her, and wants to pay off her indenture and give her better work.  (11,121 words)

Rating: 2, Not Recommended

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"Chains," by A.J. Hartley (edited by Diana Pho), was published on June 22, 2016 by Tor.com.

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

Pro: The writing is superb. The descriptions are vivid without being too wordy, the characters are realistic, the dialogue is solid. Once we understand what the bad guys are up to, there's plenty of tension when she rushes to save Sir William.

Con: Sir William's ingratitude is absurd to the point that it completely spoils the story.