Hart & Boot & Other Stories offers a welcome opportunity for readers of modern fantasy to get to know Tim Pratt, one of the best new authors on the scene. I liked his first novel, The Strange Adventures of Rangergirl, a lot when it came out, and am delighted to find that his short stories are every bit as good. Pratt often places his stories in the West, and though they are not always the protagonist, you'll be sure to find some especially strong willed gals in the mix, like Pearl Hart of the title story, who conjures up an accomplice to help her rob stage coaches, among other things. Pratt is smart, has a strong narrative voice, and is putting out some of the best new fantastic around.

(Source: Night Shade Books)