The stories gathered here explore the vagaries of sexual desire, gender identity, and erotic attachment, revealing the surprising queerness of nineteenth-century American literature.

NOMINATED FOR THE PHILIP K. DICK AWARD FOR BEST NOVEL * Dazzling space battles, intergalactic politics, and rogue AI collide in Velocity Weapon, the first book in this epic space opera trilogy by award-winning author Megan O'Keefe. Sanda and Biran Greeve were siblings destined for greatness. A high-flying sergeant, Sanda has the skills to take down any enemy combatant. Biran is a savvy politician who aims to use his new political position to prevent conflict from escalating to total destruction. However, on a routine maneuver, Sanda loses consciousness when her gunship is blown out of the sky. Instead of finding herself in friendly hands, she awakens 230 years later on a deserted enemy warship controlled by an AI who calls himself Bero. The war is lost. The star system is dead. Ada Prime and its rival Icarion have wiped each other from the universe. Now, separated by time and space, Sanda and Biran must fight to put things right. The ProtectorateVelocity Weapon

V. 12 contains: The Archer...Christmas, 1877.

The Ultimate SF Collection: 140 Stories of Dystopias, Space Adventures & Lost Worlds is a monumental anthology that showcases the remarkable diversity and profound depth of speculative fiction. Within its pages, readers will embark on journeys through meticulously crafted dystopias, uncharted galaxies, and forgotten realms, brought to life by a range of writing stylesfrom the elegantly simple to the wonderfully complex. This collection not only spans a broad spectrum of themes but also includes seminal works that have shaped the genre, making it an indispensable volume for both novices and connoisseurs of science fiction. The inclusion of landmark tales from early speculative fiction pioneers alongside lesser-known gems offers a unique tapestry of narratives that challenge, entertain, and provoke thought. The authors represented in this collection are a veritable whos who of the speculative fiction genre, featuring luminaries such as H.G. Wells, Mary Shelley, and H.P. Lovecraft, among others. Collectively, their backgroundsranging from scientists, philosophers, and historians to adventurers and storytellersmirror the eclectic mix of stories presented. This anthology not only pays homage to the rich historical and cultural roots of the genre but also reflects the evolution of speculative fiction through various literary movements. The diversity of authors ensures a rich constellation of perspectives, making each story a distinct exploration of humanitys deepest fears and grandest dreams. This anthology is recommended for readers eager to dive into the vast expanses of speculative fiction. The Ultimate SF Collection offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the genre's breadth and depth, presenting stories that interrogate the human condition, stretch the imagination, and provide profound insights into our past, present, and possible futures. It serves as both an educational resource and a gateway to the endless possibilities that speculative fiction offers, encouraging dialogues between epochs, ideas, and visions. Engaging with this collection promises not only a journey through the outer reaches of space and time but a deeper understanding of the complexities and potentials of the human spirit.