Title spotlight - "Ishtar" edited by Amanda Pillar & K.V. Taylor

I am attracted by mythology and although it is not one of my forefront interests it is always there. Therefore most of the times when I came upon mythology aspects and concepts it is most likely for me to not miss that chance. One such opportunity will arise in November when Gilgamesh Press, the little sister of Morrigan Books, will release “Ishtar”, a collection of stories edited by Amanda Pillar and K.V. Taylor. Not only is the mythological concept of the collection of interest for me, but also the three authors of the stories contained within the collection, three rising stars of Australian fiction, Kaaron Warren, Deborah Biancotti and Cat Sparks. Here is a presentation of “Ishtar” and the stories of the collection:

“The 5 Loves of Ishtar” by Kaaron Warren - Follow the path that the goddess Ishtar takes through the eyes of her most devoted worshippers, her washerwomen. Sharokin, Atur, Ninlil, Shamiran, Ninevah and Ashurina share in their goddess’ loves, losses and triumphs, as kingdoms rise and fall in the Land of Rivers.

“And the Dead Shall Outnumber the Living” by Deborah Biancotti - In modern-day Sydney, male prostitutes are dying. Their bones have turned to paste and their bodies are jelly. As Detective Adrienne Garner investigates the deaths, she finds rumours of strange cults and old gods whose powers threaten her city and, ultimately, her world.

“The Sleeping and the Dead” by Cat Sparks - Dr. Anna remembers little of her life before the war, merely traces of the man she used to love. When three desperate travellers rekindle slumbering memories, she begins a search that takes her to Hell and beyond. A search for love and, ultimately, enlightenment.