Chicks Kick Butt, edited by Rachel Caine and Kerrie L. Hughes. Urban fantasy and regular fantasy anthology. Paperback, 349 pages. Loaned.

This was an anthology of women in various states of power, intelligence, cleverness, emotion, and deceit. I was a little shocked at the average body count in the book, as more than one fight scene included the slaughter of almost everyone in the courtyard/bar/park. Many of the stories were about characters in established series, with the implication that I should know about them already.

The last story, which blended border guard experiences on the Mexican border with the Wild Hunt in Germany, was more thought-provoking and interesting than I expected. I have read many versions of the Wild Hunt and the Goblin King, but never one with quite this twist. It made for a very satisfying ending to a slightly frustrating book.

I picked up the book on loan from Kaelikat. I recommend it to anthology lovers who prefer plenty of action and clever women.

Books for 2014