#QueerLitLoft

I have a soft spot for this yearly free anthology which is edited by wife and wife team Robyn Nyx and Brey Willows, and published by Butterworth Books. Each edition is always a fabulous mix of established, and junior or new authors, with an equally fantastic selection of genres.

I’m fairly late to the game in reviewing this volume, given that Volume Five is not too far away, but it’s an anthology that I like to pick up when my reading is on the frizz. SapphFic Eclectic is a Sapphic short story collection which offers the ability to dip in and out of whilst still guaranteeing high quality and engaging stories. It always seems to call to me right when I need something less taxing; when I want to inhabit the LGBTQ+ world but without the depth or commitment required by full novels. It’s essentially a little box of rainbow love!

With 22 short stories and sneak previews of full novels, there’s something for everyone, and every taste. Here’s my top picks from Volume Four of SapphFic Eclectic:

1. Back to Back by Jo Fletcher – I’ve yet to read this author yet, but I liked the premise of the story (the revitalisation of run-down urban areas) and loved that the characters are two older women in their eighties; which is something I don’t come across very often.
2. Things That Refuse to Die by Julie Brydon – Preppers meets actual zombie apocalypse vibes. Elements of my favourite genres abound in this short, and thus the beginnings of this second chance romance were always going to be a winner.
3. Box of Matches by Robyn Nyx – Perhaps the shortest piece in the anthology but one which I found to be beautifully thought provoking. Sometimes the simplest prose finds the deepest connection within you.
4. A Walk in the Woods by Valden Bush – If you’ve had the pleasure of reading Valden’s work before you’ll realise that this horror story is quite a departure from her previous works. One which half scares me to death and makes me want to avoid wandering in woods ever again quite frankly!
5. Irish Twins by Emma Collier – A spicy, unrequited love story, which is sure to get your adrenaline racing whilst turning your heart into a puddle of ‘meant to be’ mush.
6. Champagne Problems by KC Laine – The epitome of long term relationships and anniversary goals. Perhaps a lesson in how to keep the love, appreciation and excitement alive.
7. The Repository of Memory: Training Day by Brey Willows – I adore this latest short by Brey; as usual I want to go and explore this world of memory that she’s created for us. I always want more of her work because she combines emotions so perfectly with elements of fantasy that her words are always a true pleasure to read.