Author: L. L. Martinez Editor-at-Large: Dean Francis Alfa In a world beset by magic and monsters, the disparate towns, cities, and nations of this strange, unfamiliar continent must often rely on the heroism of the valorous, the virtuous—and, some might say, the vainglorious for their continued survival. If Serpents Could Soar and Other Stories chronicles the deeds of two notable sellswords—beneath a city wrought from bone; atop a ship, soaring through the clouds; and below the shadowed boughs of the leather-winged birdfolk’s fallen homeland. Beyond these tales, stories of turmoil and mystery await. Scholars record the bizarre tale of a city that no longer exists; a sacred grove gasps its last as a blight ravages the land; a terror from beyond the mists advances upon the last bastion of a dwindling people; and a nation of mercenaries is forced to join a century-spanning war as their city burns to the ground. In his debut collection, L.L. Martinez serves up fantastic tales that delve deep into the choices that shape heroes—and the prices they pay. Whether bound by coin, cause, or something far more profound and complicated, the characters—amid ruins and revelry, betrayal and brotherhood—face hair-raising adventures and spine-tingling missions that test more than just their swordsmanship and combat skills, in a world where magic can be both a curse and a lifeline. REVIEWS: “From the fresh imagination of L.L. Martinez springs a whole collection of exciting secondary world fantasy, anchored by a pair of seemingly ill-fitted adventurers who must learn to survive and thrive together. Brace yourself for a wild ride.” — Dean Francis Alfar, author of The Kite of Stars and Other Stories;and Salamanca; editor of New Philippine Speculative Fiction “Monsters, madness, and mayhem! Martinez's world is a whirlwind mix of the weird and the wonderful (and everything in-between), flush with life (often dangerous), and chock-full of adventure (just as dangerous). The tales of Choras Raan and beyond are spellbinding, monster- crushing, and endlessly exhilarating—Indis and Maylin are as impossible to ignore as this book is to put down.” — Ryo Alfar, author of Stars in Jars “Martinez brings a fresh voice and perspective to traditional fantasy adventure. From rollicking romps to mournful elegies, these stories are engaging, enjoyable, emotionally satisfying, and compulsively readable, even for non-fantasy readers or non-readers. If you ever wanted to drag someone along with you to another world, this is the gateway you've been looking for!” — Nikki Alfar, multi-awarded author of WonderLust and Now, Then & Elsewhen Size: 6" x 9" Number of pages: 248 Publisher: Vibal Foundation Inc. Imprint: Paradox Copyright: 2025