Agony/Ecstasy Anthology: Bettie Sharpe and “Each Step Sublime”
Bettie Sharpe is re-imagining faery tales of old for the romance crowd. Ember took on Cinderella and Cat’s Tale is a Puss ‘n’ Boots retelling. Given the rise of darker faery tales in the form of the television series, “Once Upon a Time“, and the two Snow White movies (Snow White and the Huntsman looks to be the better of the two), her vision is timely. Each Step Sublime is the Little Mermaid, Sharpe style.
He stands on the stairs with the ocean lapping his boots. His dark hair is dry, and tousled by the wind. His fists hang clenched at his sides, and on his face is a look of such harsh desire that I both fear and long to be its object.
“Come back.” He speaks the words to the wind. Almost, I obey.
For all that he is human, he is like the sea—deep and dark and dangerous; unfathomable and unforgiving. And like the sea, I know that what he takes, he will keep. If I go to him, I will be as lost as a sunken ship upon the ocean floor, lost to the world that birthed me. Lost to everything I have ever known.
Next up is Wetwire by Sunny Moraine
Oooo I love the excerpt. Am a big fan of Bettie Sharpe… :)
I got a chance to read this story and it is fantastic. You almost feel the sand and smell the salt in the air from the story. So far, it’s one of my favorites. Of course, every one that I’m currently reading is a favorite for me!!
Bettie Sharpe is the reason I have this anthology on my to buy list. She is a phenomenal storyteller.
The Little Mermaid was one of my favourite fairy tales and I loved this darker version. The agony of the mermaid fit into the theme beautifully.
Thanks, Janice. Thanks, Teresa. I’m so glad you liked it. Grace, I hope you enjoy it.
Hi Nadia. It’s mutual. :) I’m planning to read The Last Slayer on my post-Christmas book binge..