This week we’ll be introducing each of our editors, and offering the chance to see a bit more about what they’re looking for in submissions. We’re starting things off with our Sandmaster, Jessi!
Are there any tropes you go feral for?
Anything simulation-related. Give me all the technology. No really, make up some crazy inventions and sell them to me. I’m in the market for some tasty tech. I also like the idea of creating monsters, whether that’s through physical or psychological means (take that how you will). I’m also a sucker for dystopian stories—but I do feel it’s a little overplayed. Bonus points if you can turn this one on its head. Oh, and I absolutely go bonkers for enemies to lovers. No explanation needed.
Some stories make you work to find the meaning. How hard are you willing to dig to find it?
I’ve dug quite a few holes in my life. Garden beds, too. I don’t mind working for the moral of the story. In fact, I prefer stories that aren’t pedantic. Don’t even toe the line.
Do you have a preference for action?
Here’s where I’m a lame little boring bird. Action scenes are cool, but I tend to scan over them for the big points. Unless the prose is just gorgeous, I’m not really fussed for battle scenes, but I can get down with a little tussle where people say things they regret. Feed me that for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
How’s your sense of humor?
One of my favorite movies is Rubber. I am obsessed with absurdism and comedic nihilism. Now, you can’t kill the story with the joke, but if the story is one long setup for the final punchline, I won’t mind. Just make sure there’s still a clear narrative arc in the middle of those laughs for me. Pretty please.
How much setting detail do you need to “see” a story?
To be honest, I need next to none. Tell me what room we’re in. Give me a vibe, and I’ll fill out the rest. My eyes tend to glaze over when I’m in the third paragraph of setting description, so please spare my contacts. Tell me what’s important to know, and leave the rest to my good ol’ noggin—unless you’re giving me sensory description of something other than sight. I could always go for more smells, tastes, sounds, and feelings.
Are you a genre purist?
I don’t believe in silly things like labels or strict genres. Give me your blended writing and fusion fiction.
What kind of characters do you like?
I have the capacity to enjoy all sorts of characters, but the one thing they all have in common is that they feel real. I don’t even need to like your characters, but I have to like reading about them. I’ll say what I don’t like: perfect characters that can do no wrong. Give them flaws, so many flaws. And if they overcome them, great. If they don’t, also great. Just give me someone I can grow to root for.
Are there any thematic elements you like to see?
I love stories that challenge moral and ethical dilemmas. Make me wonder which side is the “good” one, and leave me with the realization that such terms are relative.