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Muse of Fire
Ben Patton is a genius, a mathematician and a man on the verge of a scientific discovery that could change the world -- if the math he's invented for it works. Ben's secret to his A muse, Hestia, who helps him, cares for him and in many ways is the love of his life, as muses so often are for those they inspire.
Hestia is Ben's secret -- but Hestia has secrets of her own. As the two of them race toward the completion of their work, Ben discovers the price of having a muse, and learns that the world can change, in ways he does not expect.
Hestia is Ben's secret -- but Hestia has secrets of her own. As the two of them race toward the completion of their work, Ben discovers the price of having a muse, and learns that the world can change, in ways he does not expect.
28 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 18, 2012
71 people are currently reading
579 people want to read
About the author
John Scalzi
185 books28.6k followersJohn Scalzi, having declared his absolute boredom with biographies, disappeared in a puff of glitter and lilac scent.
(If you want to contact John, using the mail function here is a really bad way to do it. Go to his site and use the contact information you find there.)
(If you want to contact John, using the mail function here is a really bad way to do it. Go to his site and use the contact information you find there.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
September 19, 2013
A muse of fire. A woman that lives inside fire. She can only be seen and heard by one guy. Together they come up with some very difficult math that translates into big success for the guy at his job: making a plasma forcefield (plasma being the more general term of fire).
Along the way the guy meets a girl and a small battle ensues as to who the guy has true feelings and devotion for: his new girl that has shown great interest as of recently to his deformed self (accident left him with a stump on his hand and scars elsewhere), or his long time muse and love who he has devoted his career towards trying to get her on to the proper world.
On travel for testing his new maths, the new girl romance and the old girl romance come to a very swift head with a rather dark and surprising twist that is most uncharacteristic of Scalzi and his usual writings.
Overall it was a good story with a good twist that ended with the reader wondering what happens now?
Along the way the guy meets a girl and a small battle ensues as to who the guy has true feelings and devotion for: his new girl that has shown great interest as of recently to his deformed self (accident left him with a stump on his hand and scars elsewhere), or his long time muse and love who he has devoted his career towards trying to get her on to the proper world.
On travel for testing his new maths, the new girl romance and the old girl romance come to a very swift head with a rather dark and surprising twist that is most uncharacteristic of Scalzi and his usual writings.
Overall it was a good story with a good twist that ended with the reader wondering what happens now?
January 4, 2018
2.5. Eh. Pretty unoriginal/obvious. Scalzi is usually better than this - but I guess that’s probably also part of the reason he wrote this just as a (toss away) short story rather than a novel.
September 30, 2013
This quick read -- which I am marking as sci-fi, even thought it could just as easily be considered fantasy -- shows that its author, John Scalzi, has a lot more range than his typical novels about spaceships and aliens. While this short story, like those novels, also falls under the mantle of speculative fiction, as there is literally a Muse of Fire in it guiding the protagonist, it's an interesting change of pace, proving Scalzi's talents as varied as they are deep.
(Sorry for not saying more about the story itself, but there isn't much to say with a story this short that wouldn't spoil it, other than to say you should read it for yourself.)
(Sorry for not saying more about the story itself, but there isn't much to say with a story this short that wouldn't spoil it, other than to say you should read it for yourself.)
March 11, 2015
This little horror/sci-fi was a perfect example of classic zinger Twilight Zones. It may have been short, but short of anticipating the zing and actively welcoming in the hoards of hell, there was nothing else it could be. Of course, we could have made Hestia more in line with the benevolent hearth deity that was once welcome in every home, but wheres the conflict? A jilted lover, the loneliness in flame, being hated by your boss and a not so deep undercurrent of revenge all flowed through the story, humanizing everyone and keeping my attention very well.
As a tight little tale, I have to say I like it more than most I've read. It had presence.
As a tight little tale, I have to say I like it more than most I've read. It had presence.
December 31, 2014
I could see where Scalzi was going with this one but it was still a compelling, inexorable slide toward the inevitable conclusion. It was a fascinating glimpse of a man enslaved by obsession and unwilling or unable to break free, and an author unwilling to give in to easy answers. (I prefer happy endings but it is instructive to remember there are more unhappy endings and learn from the mistakes of those who failed.)
October 1, 2013
Surprisingly, I did not find this John Scalzi short story nearly as entertaining as everything else I have read by him. For me, this lacked the humor and likable characters that I usually find in his work. This won't stop me from reading more Scalzi in the future, though - most everything else has been very enjoyable!
July 27, 2015
This is a sharp little story in the vein of sci-fi which suggests humanity might profit from not meddling with things beyond its ken. But in Scalzi's hands, the old chestnut dons brilliant new clothes and an extra twist. Well done, and a fine way to while away an hour.
September 3, 2017
This short story was a step away from Scalzi's typical science fiction. It was just bland for me. None of his typical humor, and the I didn't feel any connection to the characters. The twist was just meh. I didn't care one way or the other by that point. Would not recommend.
December 29, 2022
Wonderful short story and the ending was quite mindblowing. Definitely worth reading....
March 14, 2019
Intense
The climax of the story was quite intense. Sort of predictable, but in a fun way. Enjoyed the story quite a bit.
The climax of the story was quite intense. Sort of predictable, but in a fun way. Enjoyed the story quite a bit.
January 13, 2024
Muse of Fire: A Scalzi Surprise, Burning Bright and Dark
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⚝ (4/5)
Unique Premise: A scientist's obsession with a muse trapped in fire fuels his genius and torment. This captivating concept explores the boundaries between reality and the allure of the unknown.
Compelling Protagonist: Ben, the fire-obsessed scientist, bears both physical and emotional scars, making him a relatable and intriguing character. His desperation to free his muse and the sacrifices he's willing to make drive the narrative's intensity.
Gripping Twist: The story culminates in a shocking revelation that recasts everything you thought you knew about Ben and Hestia. It's a masterfully executed turn that leaves you reeling and eager for more.
Unexpected Darkness: Scalzi delves into obsession, jealousy, and the consequences of tampering with forces beyond our understanding, marking a refreshing departure from his usual lighthearted tone.
Limited Supporting Cast: Characters beyond Ben and Hestia feel somewhat underdeveloped, serving primarily as plot devices. However, their roles don't detract from the central narrative's power.
Open Ending: The story's conclusion leaves many questions unanswered, potentially frustrating some readers who crave full closure.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⚝ (4/5)
John Scalzi's Muse of Fire ignites a captivating departure from his usual space operas, blending sci-fi, fantasy, and a touch of the macabre. Here's a closer look at its fiery brilliance and smoldering quirks:
Strengths:
Unique Premise: A scientist's obsession with a muse trapped in fire fuels his genius and torment. This captivating concept explores the boundaries between reality and the allure of the unknown.
Compelling Protagonist: Ben, the fire-obsessed scientist, bears both physical and emotional scars, making him a relatable and intriguing character. His desperation to free his muse and the sacrifices he's willing to make drive the narrative's intensity.
Gripping Twist: The story culminates in a shocking revelation that recasts everything you thought you knew about Ben and Hestia. It's a masterfully executed turn that leaves you reeling and eager for more.
Unexpected Darkness: Scalzi delves into obsession, jealousy, and the consequences of tampering with forces beyond our understanding, marking a refreshing departure from his usual lighthearted tone.
Points to Ponder:
Limited Supporting Cast: Characters beyond Ben and Hestia feel somewhat underdeveloped, serving primarily as plot devices. However, their roles don't detract from the central narrative's power.
Open Ending: The story's conclusion leaves many questions unanswered, potentially frustrating some readers who crave full closure.
Overall:
Muse of Fire is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant tale that proves Scalzi's versatility as a writer. The unique premise, complex characters, and shocking twist make it a captivating read, even if it leaves you hungry for more.
Recommended for: Fans of speculative fiction who enjoy mind-bending twists, complex characters, and a darker touch to Scalzi's usual wit.
Final Verdict: 4 out of 5 stars (A burning journey into obsession, sacrifice, and the unknown, with a twist that will leave you scorched.)
May 25, 2025
A fast read.
This was a quick read with a moral to the story. A play on words if you will. If you play with fire you will get burned. The writer put a story together to make the point. Something that Scalzi does well.
This was a quick read with a moral to the story. A play on words if you will. If you play with fire you will get burned. The writer put a story together to make the point. Something that Scalzi does well.
October 15, 2017
Part of the https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1... anthology.
October 23, 2017
Nice short read with a strong Twilight Zone air about it
November 25, 2017
Very fun short story about an obsessive man and the woman trapped in flames who only he can see. The ending was definitely impressive.
March 3, 2019
John Scalzi is an evil, evil man.
But in a seriously wicked awesome way.
But in a seriously wicked awesome way.
February 8, 2021
It was an interesting read. A fun romp. Typical Scalzi.
December 27, 2024
This is a short story.
August 21, 2014
Of the non-Old Man's War short stories from John Scalzi, I think this one is my favorite so far, if we're not counting the God Engines, which was a novella (should have been a full novel). It tells the tale of a researcher with a dangerous obsession with fire and his possibly schizophrenic tendency to see a woman named Hestia in any open flame he can see. It's caused him pain and loss already, having lost a hand to a fire trying to free her from what she tells him is Hell.
The story starts out with a completely interesting main character, and continues with a strong central conceit and premise, then follows through with a great twist ending. The supporting characters beside the main researcher are playthings, given enough character to mean something to the plot, but not much else.
But honestly, that doesn't matter because the central character and idea is so strong already that all the interesting work comes from exploring the psychology of someone who is trying to free a woman from Hell, and working to reconcile his life with this obsession with fire, it's a pretty good execution of the tortured genius sub genre, and something which would make an excellent short film, if I'm being honest.
It also seems to be a little more out of John Scalzi's writing wheelhouse, and it feels like he's experimenting with something akin to horror with this story - the flippancy and the jokes aren't as present or noticeable in this entry as they are throughout all his other works, and it almost feels like he's taking this short story more seriously than he has his other works. I like the change, because the voice feels a bit different. When Scalzi is really trying, it comes through, and he's not falling back on his usual voice.
I'd recommend it as a great entry in his short story catalog, and is definitely well worth the 99 cent price point.
The story starts out with a completely interesting main character, and continues with a strong central conceit and premise, then follows through with a great twist ending. The supporting characters beside the main researcher are playthings, given enough character to mean something to the plot, but not much else.
But honestly, that doesn't matter because the central character and idea is so strong already that all the interesting work comes from exploring the psychology of someone who is trying to free a woman from Hell, and working to reconcile his life with this obsession with fire, it's a pretty good execution of the tortured genius sub genre, and something which would make an excellent short film, if I'm being honest.
It also seems to be a little more out of John Scalzi's writing wheelhouse, and it feels like he's experimenting with something akin to horror with this story - the flippancy and the jokes aren't as present or noticeable in this entry as they are throughout all his other works, and it almost feels like he's taking this short story more seriously than he has his other works. I like the change, because the voice feels a bit different. When Scalzi is really trying, it comes through, and he's not falling back on his usual voice.
I'd recommend it as a great entry in his short story catalog, and is definitely well worth the 99 cent price point.
October 24, 2013
In a rare move for Scalzi, if I'm not mistaken, this story is unrelated to any of the larger universes he has built through his novels, which adds an intriguing note of curiosity to what is otherwise the gold standard of sf - a good story, well told.
In this case, we have a hero who is obsessed with a muse that appears to him through flames, high end physics, office politics, and a potential escape from Hell for a trapped soul.
It's a story well worth the time spent reading and a tantalizing promise of new worlds from Scalzi.
In this case, we have a hero who is obsessed with a muse that appears to him through flames, high end physics, office politics, and a potential escape from Hell for a trapped soul.
It's a story well worth the time spent reading and a tantalizing promise of new worlds from Scalzi.
June 20, 2014
I like all of John Scalzi's stories, and this is no exception. But the short story format was just not enough here to explore his idea and his characters. I read an Isaac Asimov piece about how a successful short story could have either a plot or well developed characters but there isn't room for both. The problem with this is it fails because it tries to have both and it leaves you without enough of either.
May 1, 2017
My rating: 4 stars
Audiobook narrator Wil Wheaton rating: 4 stars
This was a fun short story with an interesting concept (the whole Rip-Off story line). I liked this story and think it would be cool if they were to make this into a 30-minute film adaptation or something.
I don’t have much else to say since the story was so short but Wil Wheaton did a good job as the narrator of this book.
Audiobook narrator Wil Wheaton rating: 4 stars
This was a fun short story with an interesting concept (the whole Rip-Off story line). I liked this story and think it would be cool if they were to make this into a 30-minute film adaptation or something.
I don’t have much else to say since the story was so short but Wil Wheaton did a good job as the narrator of this book.
February 23, 2014
This was a quick and interesting little short that blurred the lines between science fiction and horror. I was very glad to read it, and there's not too much I can say about the plot without giving anyway anything. But the story was great. The ending was not as surprising as it might have been, but the journey to getting there was well worth the read.
December 28, 2021
Good tale about mortals meddling in the affairs of gods (and goddesses), specially without doing their homework first!
Great short story, with a well-thought-out twist at the end, very different from most of Scalzi's writing. Refreshing and fun, I do not regret paying the $0.99 it cost at the Subterranean Press' website.
Great short story, with a well-thought-out twist at the end, very different from most of Scalzi's writing. Refreshing and fun, I do not regret paying the $0.99 it cost at the Subterranean Press' website.
September 14, 2013
Something different from John Scalzi, a horror/SF tale involving a scientist and a vision he'd had all his life. Only seen in fire and his efforts to rescue his muse. I was surprised by the ending. As one should be with all good stories.
September 14, 2013
In a tale of a scientist obsessed with fire who pursues his muse down a path precariously teetering between inspiration and madness, John Scalzi steps outside his usual realms. It's science fiction fantasy infused with a pinch of The Twilight Zone, and a dash of Edgar Allan Poe.
November 28, 2013
There isn't much to say other than if you have half an hour and want to read an interesting short story go for it. It's classic Scalzi, fun, imaginative and through provoking without getting too serious. And it has a lot of fire in it. FIRE! FIRE!.
May 25, 2014
A great shorter work from Scalzi, not like anything else of his I've read. An engineer sees a woman whenever he's around fire (his "muse of fire") and devotes his life to freeing her from the dimension she is bound to (Hell).
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews