BEING ARO

Book Cover

In her introduction, contributor Julie Sondra Decker notes that the portrayal of romantic love in literature “as a prerequisite to fulfillment and even personhood [is] disturbing.” In this collection, aro characters who don’t experience romantic attraction face not only arophobia, but also misunderstandings; compulsory romance; feelings of being broken, lacking, or othered; and disappointment from friends who want something more from their relationships. However, they also find strength connecting with other aromatic people and supportive friends and from discovering alternative ways to live and love. Most of the stories are well-written, and the standouts include “Do You See Me?” by Isa Fiel, which links the legend of La Llorona to arophobia, and “Daughter of Time” by co-editor Dyer, which contrasts a Neanderthal girl’s warm and loving community with a modern girl’s isolation. Ian M. Carlisle’s “Thomas Marley’s Fake Bride” broadens the anthology’s representation by centering on a protagonist who delights in sex—just not romance. Among the many intricately woven worlds, the high-concept nature of a few might challenge readers, as might the second-person narration of some stories. The genres represented include fantasy, science fiction, dystopia, and realistic fiction. Several tales feature leads who are of non-European heritage, and many include characters who represent a multitude of LGBTQ+ identities.

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