The first story didn't work for me, and I almost abandoned this collection. Very glad that I didn't, because the middle three stories were worth the price of admission. The last was also a bit rough, but murderous clowns in the land of the dead? Sure, why not!

Author C.S.E. Cooney has written numerous short stories and poems, and to date two collections. A novel is apparently in the works. Her mentor - this collection is introduced by him - is Gene Wolfe, who recently passed away. Cooney is apparently also a narrator of audio books and short stories.

Back to this collection, a solid 3.5 stars. The Bone Swans of Amandale is worth the price of admission. In future, I'd like to read more from this author, and for that matter another book or two from Gene Wolfe.