"An excellent anthology"

As usual, this annual anthology serves up some of the best work, although this time around, the emphasis is more on horror than fantasy this year. The tales represent a wide panorama of the genres. Most of which are quite strong and a few are tremndous with one particular tale, "The Hunter's Wife," an incredible five star plus treat. Editors Ellen Datlow and Terri Windling also include their usual insightful analysis of the year. Especially interesting besides the obvious trend analysis that make for fascinating reading notably when compared to earlier editions of this tome is the recognition of comic books as a legitimate form of fantasy.

Overall this edition is a strong anthology that holds up against its illustrious history. Readers will enjoy savoring this collection over several weeks (this reviewer read 2-3 stories a night).

Harriet Klausner

Reviewed by Harriet Klausner
Posted July 31, 2003