Old Meets New & a Hounded Giveaway

One of the things I really love that is done so well in speculative fiction is the blending of the ancient with the modern. Centuries old myths come roaring back to life and eldritch gods show up to mingle with punk rockers and soccer moms. Most every UF title, vampire novel and steampunk tale has a bit of that old-time appeal.

I remember reading Clarissa Pinkola Estes for the first time in high school and feeling like I could actually connect to a deeper thread of our history, bring it back with me and somehow integrate it into my life. Some of my favorite authors are masters at creating that same sense of ancient wisdom and magic in our everyday lives. I also study a lot of ancient history and religions, so seeing it re-invented for a modern audience is always exciting.

In honor of the mash-up of old and new, I'm giving away a copy of Kevin Hearne's debut novel, Hounded, to one very lucky reader. There are plenty of great releases this month, but this is definitely one I've been waiting eagerly for. Hounded hits stores today and everyone should go buy it, but if you'd like an extra copy to give to a friend, then we've got what you need.

This contest will run through end of day on May 16th and you have 3 ways to enter: +1 for leaving a comment and letting us know what spec-fic title is at the top of your must-have list for May, +1 for following our blog, and +1 for tweeting a link to the contest (feel free to do so more than once, but it still only counts for one entry). The winner will be chosen via random.org. and I'll announce the name in my post on May 17th.

Happy Mother's Day this Sunday to all the great moms out there (especially mine)!