Reading Round-up: February/March 2022

February was apparently sci-fi month. We do have something for fans steampunk and the Three Musketeers in here, but the majority of the list is different flavors of science fiction. Anyway, it’s time to talk about some excellent books so let’s DO THIS.

Starfarers by Vonda McIntyre

As part of my effort to go back and read more science fiction and fantasy classics authored by women, I’ve collected the entire four books in the Starfarers series and happily finished the first one this month. This book filled me with nostalgia because McIntyre is writing within a tradition that I first grew up in, and some of the social visions described in this book echo authors such as Anne McCaffrey and Mercedes Lackey (among others). I’m excited to dive into the next book and meet the aliens everyone is looking for. (Science Fiction, LGBTQ+)

Dead Silence by S.A. Barnes

Released at the beginning of February, this book rocked my socks. Scathing commentary on corporate greed and how the desperation to control your own fate can awaken ghosts long buried. Delightful visuals and spooky af. (Science Fiction, Horror)

Black God’s Drums by P. Djèlí Clark

Awesome little novella I read specifically for Black History Month. Steampunk, sisterhood, Orishas — what’s not to love? I have a special spot in my heart for anything set in New Orleans, which I quite enjoyed visiting several years ago. It’s a fascinating city, and P. Djèlí Clark captures its spirit in this action-packed steampunk alternative history. (Steampunk, BIPOC)

Psalm for the Wild-Built by Becky Chambers

I love this little book. It took me a long time to dive into it, but once I did it absolutely took me away. There’s so much packed in this novella, and it’s all explored with Chambers’ trademark kindness. A must-read for those who love solarpunk or those looking to find out what all the fuss is about with the hot new subgenre. (Science Fiction, Solarpunk, LGBTQ+)

Bluebird by Ciel Pierlot

A rollicking adventure serving peak Star Wars vibes. Our main character is a super blue (literally), super queer Han Solo who gets matched up with a lovely psuedo-Ciena Ree sidekick. If you like found family, fast-paced action, and themes of empire and colonialism explored therein, I highly recommend this book. (Science Fiction, LGBTQ+)

One for All by Lillie Lainoff

This was a fun young adult read for all of us who wanted to be a Musketeer growing up. The book also directly addresses a chronic illness that’s poorly understood, POTS, which displays similar to congestive heart failure in the main character. This is a lovely book of intrigue, coming of age, sisterhood and found family, and lots of awesome sword fights. (Young Adult, Historical Fiction, Retelling)

I hope there’s something here you’ll love! Tell me what great books you’ve read lately.

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