A review by dhiyanah
The Carnelian King and Other Stories by Arden Powell

adventurous funny mysterious medium-paced

4.0

I enjoyed some of the stories in this collection, each created in response to prompts offered by the author's community - I thought that was really sweet and powerful.

The humor in the stories stood out for me. The author has a beautiful way of exploring intimacy as well. I adore the ease in which queer relationships are celebrated here. My favorites: 'The Carnelian King,' 'The Rainbow Necklace and the God of Summertime,' 'A Nun of the Order Of Infinite Luck Walks into a Bookshop,' and 'Beyond the Riverbanks of the Jade Palace.' The Fionnobhar stories were funny, reminded me a bit of Monty Python.

However, there were some elements or treatments of relational dynamics that were quite triggering for me to sit through, especially in the last story. 

Otherwise, this was a really fun read and I'm glad I picked it up. I'd recommend it for those who enjoy exploring whimsical worlds, and for anyone who could use a burst of fantastical playfulness in their reads at this time. Plus, the cover art is gorgeous!
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