Hindsight

by W.D. County, Virtual Voice (Narrator)

A few months ago, Nathan Ember suffered a near-death experience that gave him the ability to see 24 hours into the past, like a double image superimposed over the present. He can hear and see yesterday’s people and events, but no one in the past can see or hear him. The unique ability cost Nathan his job as an air traffic controller and now he eeks out a living as a private detective specializing in very recent crimes. The knowledge he gains sometimes leads to a reward, a finder’s fee, or goodwill from the police investigators. He hears of an unusual murder that occurred the night before and heads to the scene to watch it happen.

In the morning he heads to the police department, certain that his timely and valuable information will be appreciated. He’s shocked to discover that a psychic, Galena Torres, has already provided the same intel to the police. Nathan confronts Galena at her home and is stunned to discover her past self can see and hear him. Yesterday’s Galena thinks he’s a ghost and proves it by sticking her arm through his body. Today’s Galena is surprised to learn Nathan is very much alive. Nathan becomes disoriented talking to the past and present Galena simultaneously.

The interplay of past, present, and future is confusing, but Nathan and Galena are attracted to each other and quickly adapt to the odd relationship. They partner in hopes of solving the complex murder, not realizing that the killer is more dangerous than they can imagine. Especially when he focuses his cunning brutality on them.

Audible Audio

Published June 4, 2025

About the author

I enjoy writing speculative fiction, often with a slight metaphysical flavor. I have a keen appreciation for technology, drawing on experience as a nuclear reactor operator aboard the ballistic missile submarine USS Sam Houston (SSBN 609), a quality assurance manager at the Three Mile Island Nuclear Station, and a custom application developer for the federal government and major companies. My publication credits include The Scent of Distant Worlds, Sammi and Oasis at the Bottom of the Sea, as well as short stories in the e-zine Spinetingler and various anthologies. I finished tenth in the horror genre for the 79th annual Writer’s Digest short story competition. My nonfiction includes articles in Lotus Advisor and Contact magazines. I have a Master of Fine Arts degree in writing from Lindenwood University and reside in Lees Summit, Missouri with my lovely wife and my beautiful Miata hardtop convertible.

Reviews

[Steven Finkelstein · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nathan Ember has been blessed, or perhaps cursed, with an odd ability. He can suddenly see with stunning clarity events that happened 24 hours in the past. This is understandably disconcerting to him, and it costs him his air traffic controller job. He decided to make a go of it as a private detective.

When he heads to a murder scene to see what took place there, he gets the facts, but then, everything goes awry. He learns that Galena Torres, a psychic, has the same information he does and has scooped him with the police. Now, Galena and Nathan must team up. They’re a mismatched pair, but they quickly begin to respect each other. They will both need all of their resources if they’re to outwit a killer who is now giving them his undivided attention.

[Ivana S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hindsight is a clever, genre-blending thriller that kept me intrigued from start to finish. I was immediately hooked by Nathan Ember’s strange and fascinating ability to see 24 hours into the past. The concept is original and executed with just the right balance of suspense, sci-fi, and emotional depth. The dynamic between Nathan and Galena is quirky and compelling, watching them navigate the past and present simultaneously is equally confusing and captivating (in the best way). The writing is sharp, the pacing tight, and the plot twists land with impact. It’s a story about connection, perception, and danger, and it manages to feel grounded and wildly imaginative. It’s smart, stylish, and surprisingly heartfelt. A standout in the sci-fi mystery realm.

[Margarita Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one of the most exciting novel that I read in the last time. “Hindsight” has a unique plot where the main character has the skills to look into the past just for 24 hours. That will help them to resolve a strange case of assassination. But also, this will put them in some troubles that they have to figure out. this novel has a mix is suspense, drama and overall supernatural power, that make it very exciting to read it in just one seat. If you are looking for a great fiction novel you should read pick this one. You will not regret. I highly recommend it.

[S Tyty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hindsight is one of those original books that blends science fiction, mystery, and a bit of romance in a way that just works. I really liked how naturally the supernatural elements blended into the detective storyline. It never felt forced. The writing kept a good pace, and the story managed to be emotionally grounded and intellectually intriguing. I genuinely didn’t know how it would all unfold.
If you enjoy detective fiction with a sci-fi edge and a touch of dark humor, this book is absolutely worth reading.

[Carlos Perea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great twist to the genre

Beyond the time-viewing ability and the murder mystery, the heart of the story lies in the characters' unusual connection. W.D. County does a great job playing with the concept of time without getting too technical or overwhelming. The dual timelines are handled in a way that’s easy to follow, and the back-and-forth adds a fresh energy to the story.
If you like mystery, a hint of romance, and a unique paranormal twist, this is a great pick.