You Sexy Thing

I couldn’t imagine what this book could be about with a title like this, but I enjoy Cat’s short stories so I took a leap of faith. I’m glad I did.

You Sexy Thing is the name of a sentient bioship that believes it is being stolen. Fast-paced and action-packed with great characters, You Sexy Thing also has depth–found family, personal ethics, and a pirate king bent on revenge. Immensely entertaining.

So far this list has explored worlds that are quietly optimistic and imaginatively dark – while You Sexy Thing by Cat Rambo is resolutely neither. Rambo’s novel is a playful and exhilarating romp through space with a diverse cast of characters, from human to intelligent apes, and its genders and sexualities are just as varied. There’s seemingly no limit to the plurality of beings populating this delightful space opera, and my absolute favourite has to be Skidoo: a connection-seeking squid-being who craves affection and empathic touch. I never thought I’d relate so hard to a cephalopod.