Charles L. Graves & E. V. Lucas 
The War of the Wenuses 

In ‘The War of the Wenuses, ‘ editors Charles L. Graves and E. V. Lucas oversee an astute collection that serves as both a parody and homage to the sudden eruption of planetary romances that dominated the late 19th-century literary scene. Juxtaposing humor with keen social observations, the anthology showcases a variety of stylistic approaches to offer both a critique and a celebration of the era’s speculative fever. The range of narratives, from the wildly fantastical to the subtly satirical, provides readers with a comprehensive view of the genre’s versatility and its impact on the literary landscape of the time. The anthology’s contributors, Graves and Lucas, both prominent figures in Edwardian literary circles, bring together a fusion of historical understanding and literary acumen. Their combined efforts reflect a period of great change and experimentation within literature, touching not only on the evolving genre of science fiction but also on the broader societal shifts of their time. By weaving together narratives that reflect on gender, imperialism, and technological marvels, they offer a multifaceted examination of the early science fiction genre’s capacity to comment on contemporary issues. ‘The War of the Wenuses’ is a must-read for aficionados of early science fiction and those interested in the cultural and literary movements of the Edwardian era. This anthology provides a unique lens through which to explore the rich tapestry of early 20th-century speculative fiction, opening up discussions on how these narratives mirror, critique, and entertain the societal concerns of their time. Readers will find in this collection not only a testament to the genre’s early explorations but also a profound commentary on the human condition as reflected through the fantastical and the futuristic.