Speculative Fiction Feasts

Another month of speculative fiction and food pairings!

I Crave My Meat a Little Rare

Author: Rajiv Moté

Publication: Flash Point Science Fiction

Link: https://flashpointsf.com/2026/04/24/issue-2-2026/#i-crave-my-meat-a-little-rareby-rajiv-mote

Impressions: A raw, unsettling allegory that investigates the complexities of abuse, survival, and love.

Food and Drink Pairing: Steak fajitas.

Extracted from an unravelled braid

Author: Aline-Mwezi Niyonsenga

Publication: Uncanny Magazine

Link: https://www.uncannymagazine.com/article/extracted-from-an-unravelled-braid/

Impressions: Excellent portrayal of identity tension from the diaspora. Also appreciated how hair plays a central role in this story, given the cultural, social, and political meaning that hair can carry.

Food and Drink Pairing: Gaperi.

The Barrens

Author: Octavia Cade

Publication: Three-Lobed Burning Eye

Link: https://www.3lobedmag.com/issue45/3lbe45_story2.html

Impressions: Published almost a year ago, but wow, this was a fun read!

Food and Drink Pairing: Uni sushi and pound cake.

Tea or Coffee, Stars, and Gravity

Publication: air and nothingness press

Link: https://www.aanpress.com/aanorder.html#tcsg

Impressions: This limited edition anthology is a great read for anyone who likes science fiction with heart, humor, and beauty! My full review is on Goodreads.

Food and Drink Pairing: Your favorite warm drink. I read this book in the evening, so I stewed a ginger turmeric tea for myself.