Review of "Heart of Joy" by Kate O'Connor

"Heart of Joy" by Kate O'Connor appeared in Daily Science Fiction on April 12, 2013.  "The unlikely romantic relationship between a professional dancer from a backwater planet and the High Chancellor of the galaxy becomes strained when the High Chancellor receives the gift of a beautiful automaton that can mimic his lover's every movement."

Ms. O'Conner speaks with a clarity of voice and poignancy of tone that thrust me right into her beautifully told story.  The raw emotion in this romantic space opera is palpable.  I was near tears (in a good way) by its end.  Brava!  7 out of 7 rocket dragons for this original and most memorable tale.