Akiva Reads

by Sfé R. Monster, Taneka Stotts, Joseph Bergin III, Reed Black, Jon Cairns, Ted Closson, K. Copeland, Blue Delliquanti, Rachel Dukes, Kate Ebensteiner, Dylan Edwards, Anissa Espinosa, Chenoa Gao, Christianne Goudreau, Savannah Horrocks, Kiku Hughes, Shing Yin Khor, Wm Brian MacLean, Dave C. Mahler, April J. Martins, Kori Michele, Gabby Reed, Nicasio Andres Reed, B. Sabo, Niki Smith, A. Stiffler, Kristina Stipetic, Bevan Thomas, Lin Visel, Leia Weathington, Benjamin A. Wilgus

Some standouts, in order of appearance (now with illustrations!):

"Luminosity" (****) It took me a reread to understand what the characters are talking about, which I don't think was intentional, but once I did I was really into it.

"A Royal Affair" (*) Possibly my favorite! Pirates, royalty, adventure, and outrageous flirting.

"Duty and Honor" (*) I didn't immediately warm to either the art or the subject, but it won me over and made me cry.

"O Type Hypergiant" (****.5) I love the melding of classic gay erotic art styles and sci fi. The last panel gives me chills.

"The Next Day" (**) Too distracted by wondering how anyone survives to do anything for more than a month if the sun has gone out? Eating meat is only going to take you so far. Are the rabbits cannibalistic now?

Some other favorites, which don't have a lot else to say about: "Mourning Tea", "They Simply Pass", "Barricade".