With THE TANGLEROOT PALACE, Marjorie Liu gives a masterclass in the art of storytelling

Early praise for Marjorie Liu’s forthcoming collection THE TANGLEROOT PALACE keep rolling in. Though not out until June, preorders for THE TANGLEROOT PALACE are available from all finer booksellers and the Tachyon Publications site.

Cover art by Sana Takeda
Design by Elizabeth Story

In a STARRED review, KIRKUS enjoys the collection.

A collection of short stories exploring the emotional complexity, diverse physicality, and layered sexuality of resourceful women.

[…]

Within each tale, author Liu gives a masterclass in the art of storytelling. She doesn’t waste a word or a comma, nor does she miss an opportunity to dive into what makes us human, no matter who we are or who we love. In the title novella, the protagonist learns that “some trees are bark and root, and some trees have soul and teeth.” So, too, will readers find that Liu’s writing is all “soul and teeth.” Neither will release them quickly.

The only drawback to these seven stories is that readers will want far more time in each world.

REDHEAD RAGE READS concurs.

Each of the short stories was unique, brutal and raw whilst still being magical. 5/5

As does REVIEWS BY ALLIE.

Overall, I loved this story collection.

Lyndsie Manusos at BOOK RIOT includes the book among 10 Speculative Short Story Collections to Enjoy in 2021.

I am a huge fan of Liu’s Monstress, so I am thrilled about this collection about dangerous magic and dangerous women. This collection of short stories and a novella includes a princess who runs away from an arranged marriage, an apprentice witch who seeks freedom through betrayal, and a body-stealing sorceress who falls in love with a soul that only emerges once a week. It’s a spellbinding collection (and another amazing cover)!