Growing Pains [hc]

A collection of nine stories from one of the rising stars of British genre fiction; stories that slip effortlessly between science fiction and dark, humanesque fantasy, examining the gaps between reality and the spaces that hide within us all. Includes the BSFA Award-shortlisted The Assistant , and two stories wholly original to this volume. The stories of Ian Whates manifest a vivid particularity of place and a clarity of suspenseful plotting, along with an endearing ability to conjure up vivid characters both noble and nasty. His beautifully malleable tone ranges from arch and witty to dead serious. Put all these fine talents together, and you end up with state-of-the art fantastical fiction, guaranteed to entertain and enlighten, shock and surprise! Paul Di Filippo, author of A Princess of the Linear Jungle.