Songs of Love and Death: All Original Tales of Star Crossed Love

Edited by George R. R. Martin and Gardner Dozois.

IN this star-studded cross-genre anthology, seventeen of the greatest modern authors of fantasy, science fiction, and romance explore the borderlands of their genres with brand-new tales of ill-fated love. From zombie-infested woods in a postapocalyptic America to faery-haunted rural fields in eighteenth- century England, from the kingdoms of high fantasy to the alien world of a galaxy-spanning empire, these are stories of lovers who must struggle against the forces of magic and fate.

Award-winning, bestselling author Neil Gaiman demonstrates why he’s one of the hottest stars in literature today with “The Thing About Cassandra,” a subtle but chilling story of a man who meets an old girlfriend he had never expected to see.

International blockbuster bestselling author Diana Gabaldon sends a World War II RAF pilot through a stone circle to the time of her Outlander series in “A Leaf on the Winds of All Hallows.” Torn from all he knows, Jerry MacKenzie determinedly survives hardship and danger, intent on his goal of returning home to his wife and baby — no matter the cost.

New York Times bestselling author Jim Butcher presents “Love Hurts,” in which Harry Dresden takes on one of his deadliest adversaries and in the process is forced to confront the secret desires of his own heart.

Just the smallest sampling promises unearthly delights, but look also for stories by New York Times bestselling romance authors Jo Beverley and Mary Jo Putney, and by such legends of the fantasy genre as Peter S. Beagle and Tanith Lee, as well as many other popular and beloved writers, including Marjorie M. Liu, Jacqueline Carey, Carrie Vaughn, and Robin Hobb. This exquisite anthology, crafted by the peerless editing team of George R. R. Martin and Gardner Dozois, is sure to leave you under its spell.

Discover the many realms of the heart with this extraordinary cast of acclaimed authors:

PETER S. BEAGLE
JO BEVERLEY
JIM BUTCHER
JACQUELINE CAREY
DIANA GABALDON
NEIL GAIMAN
YASMINE GALENORN
M.L.N. HANOVER
ROBIN HOBB
CECELIA HOLLAND
TANITH LEE
MARJORIE M. LIU
MARY JO PUTNEY
LINNEA SINCLAIR
MELINDA SNODGRASS
LISA TUTTLE
CARRIE VAUGHN

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Fantasy Science Fiction Horror Anthology

Release date: November 2010

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George R. R. Martin

George R. R. Martin is one of the most influential and celebrated authors in the world of fantasy literature. Known for his epic storytelling, intricate world-building, and morally complex characters, Martin has captured the imagination of millions of readers globally. Born on September 20, 1948, in Bayonne, New Jersey, he began his writing career as a young man and quickly became known for his distinctive narrative style. With works spanning across novels, short stories, and television scripts, Martin has established himself as a master of fantasy and speculative fiction.

Best known for his groundbreaking A Song of Ice and Fire series, which inspired the wildly popular television series Game of Thrones, Martin has redefined the modern fantasy genre. His books combine medieval-style politics, deep character development, and unpredictable plots, setting them apart from traditional fantasy works. In A Game of Thrones (1996), the first book in the series, Martin introduces readers to the treacherous and captivating world of Westeros, where noble families vie for power and the fate of the realm hangs in the balance. The series has become a cultural phenomenon, earning Martin critical acclaim and a massive global fanbase.

Martin's writing is known for its complexity, with multiple perspectives and intertwining plotlines that challenge readers' assumptions. His characters, often gray rather than strictly good or evil, add depth to the epic struggles of power, love, betrayal, and survival. The series’ unpredictability, including the shocking deaths of key characters, has set it apart from other works in the genre, earning Martin the title of "The American Tolkien."

Beyond A Song of Ice and Fire, Martin has contributed to various other works, including Fevre Dream, Tuf Voyaging, and The Ice Dragon, showcasing his versatility as a writer. His involvement in television, particularly his role as a co-executive producer and writer on Game of Thrones, has further cemented his status in the literary and entertainment world. Martin is also the editor of the Wild Cards series.

Despite his immense success, Martin's dedication to his craft remains unwavering. Fans eagerly await the next installment in the A Song of Ice and Fire series, with The Winds of Winter and A Dream of Spring promising to bring even more depth to his already intricate universe.

With his unparalleled storytelling, George R. R. Martin has not only shaped the fantasy genre but also influenced generations of writers, leaving a lasting legacy in both literature and popular culture. His ability to weave together complex worlds, multifaceted characters, and gripping narratives ensures that his works will continue to captivate readers for years to come.

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