INTRODUCTION
S.C. Butler
From Jonah to Jules Verne, the depths of the oceans have always intrigued us. Whether it’s the nightmares we can’t see—Kraken, Leviathan, Cthulu—or those we sometimes wish we could—Selkies, Mermen, Flipper—the unfathomable trenches and abyssal plains that lie buried beneath three-quarters of the surface of the earth are home to some of the most celebrated inhabitants of our imaginations. Fantasy and science fiction have explored the depths of space countless times, but those nearer unknowns that lie beneath the keels of our ocean liners and canoes, not so much.
Here, then, are seventeen tales of underwater mystery and adventure, from seventeen masters of horror, fantasy, and science fiction. Cringe in terror as you investigate the Love-craftian mysteries of the tenth planet. Laugh (and groan) through the seven days of Squid-mas. Savor sweet revenge from the bottom of your victim’s wineglass. High-five a giant squid, battle nautiluses with underwater magic cowboys, or experience first contact in the frigid depths of Europa. These adventures, and more, await your first plunge into the deep end of…SUBMERGED.