written by David Steffen
In 2012 Podcastle published 51 feature stories, with 8 miniatures. This is the one of the Escape Artists podcasts that I haven’t managed to get a story into yet, but I listen on! Dave Thompson and Anna Schwind continue their tenure as editors, and there were plenty of good stories to pick from.
1. In the Stacks by Scott Lynch
A full cast recording, unusual for Podcastle. A story about magicians-in-training going into a violent magical library as a test of their abilities.
2. Recognizing Gabe: Un Cuento de Hadas by Alberto Yaà ±ez
This one surprised me. I felt like I knew where it was going, but it surprised me in a very good way.
3. The Tonsor’s Son by Michael John Grist
“I knew from the moment I saw him that his beard was full of evil.” There’s one scene that many of the forumites found hard to take, but I think everyone who kept listening was okay with it in the long run.
4. Another Word for Map is Faith by Christopher Rowe
There are few things more frightening than religious zealotry.
5. Accompaniment by Keffy R.M. Kehrli
A kickass dark flash.
6. Destiny, With Blackberry Sauce by David J. Schwartz
I’ve seen stories before where someone tried to avoid their destiny, but never as hard as in this story.
Honorable Mentions
Fable From a Cage by Tim Pratt
A Window, Clear as a Mirror by Ferrett Steinmetz
Machine Washable by Keffy R.M. Kehrli