Hmm - I didn't realise it was Alternate History you were working on.

Perhaps you could ask Delia Sherman and/or Ellen Kushner for suggestions? They've both got Live Journals, and they seem lovely. (I realise that Swordspoint et al have the emphasis more on the 'Alternate' than on the History, but I think Delia's pretty much a History Geek herself.) They're also all over the notion of blending genres and supporting artists who don't want to be pigeonholed.

(Plus, hey, The Privelege of the Sword is ALL over the notion of how gender impacts upon freedom, complete with swashbuckling, crossdressing and hot sex.)

I think I may have broken a testicle while opening spaghetti sauce.

!!!

Um. PC, you should seriously think about using your hands next time.

My left arm isn't strong enough.

Well, okay.

...

...

it's about this point in the conversation that somebody ought to be bandying around the phrase 'clever dick', yes?

And here I was thinking that after a year and a bit in Bangkok I was past being surprised by the impressive things people can apparently do with their genitals.

Well, the rest of her post said her issue is that she thinks it feeds into the idea that it's better to be a boy

During many periods of history, it was.

I'm sorry, P-C. I also wish there was video.

I couldn't hold it steady with my left hand, so I put it between my legs and had to squeeze really hard while I turned the lid with my right hand. Apparently, I need stronger groin muscles.

During many periods of history, it was.

Word; hell, right now in much, if not most, of the world, that's still true.

eta

Apparently, I need stronger groin muscles.

Um.

Pus, hey, The Privelege of the Sword is ALL over the notion of how gender impacts upon freedom, complete with swashbuckling, crossdressing and hot sex.

And is a kick-ass, wonderful story that bring all sorts of happiness to those who loved Swordspoint.

Thanks, Fay! I'll check out their LiveJournals.