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Into the Unknown A science Fiction Anthology
Into the Unknown - A Science Fiction Anthology
What lies beyond the known?
An anomaly in space attracts the curious and the obsessive. An artificial intelligence expresses very real needs.
A civilization lives out its last days on a doomed generation ship.
From the recesses of a closet to the dark side of the Moon, from mysterious islands to alien worlds and the furthest reaches of unexplored space, join eleven authors as they explore the mysteries that lie within our technology, our universe, and ourselves.
Embark on a science fiction expedition … Into the Unknown.
Edited by Emma Berglund, Jason Clor and Rohan O’Duill
Contributors - A. Raven Demory, Jason Clor, Rohan O’Duill, S.A. Sackinger, Briana Bedore, H.L.Hinkle, J.P. Reynolds, Duncan Ellis, T. E. LaMonte, Emma Berglund, Wendy Wee.
All proceeds from the sale of this anthology go to The World Literacy Foundation.
What lies beyond the known?
An anomaly in space attracts the curious and the obsessive. An artificial intelligence expresses very real needs.
A civilization lives out its last days on a doomed generation ship.
From the recesses of a closet to the dark side of the Moon, from mysterious islands to alien worlds and the furthest reaches of unexplored space, join eleven authors as they explore the mysteries that lie within our technology, our universe, and ourselves.
Embark on a science fiction expedition … Into the Unknown.
Edited by Emma Berglund, Jason Clor and Rohan O’Duill
Contributors - A. Raven Demory, Jason Clor, Rohan O’Duill, S.A. Sackinger, Briana Bedore, H.L.Hinkle, J.P. Reynolds, Duncan Ellis, T. E. LaMonte, Emma Berglund, Wendy Wee.
All proceeds from the sale of this anthology go to The World Literacy Foundation.
195 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2022
About the author
Rohan O'Duill
8 books53 followersRohan is an Irish science fiction author descended from the oral storytellers of both the ancient Celts and Vikings… probably. Telling stories has been an essential part of human culture for thousands of years. Stories give us joy but they also teach us lessons and pass wisdom down through the generations.
That yearning to become a storyteller started young in Rohan, but a school system designed for academics and not the chaotic brilliance of a dyslexic mind stymied that aspiration.
But that smoldering desire to pass on stories, to express his creative soul, couldn't be contained. Inspired by the words of Rohan’s doppelganger Commander Riker, “Fear is the true enemy, the only enemy,” he started to write. At first Rohan spewed words onto the page like he had contracted the simian flu. But, with the help of his friends, Rohan began to sculpt those words into something palpable, something both ancient and new. An invite to everyone to share in the story and, most importantly, have some fun.
That yearning to become a storyteller started young in Rohan, but a school system designed for academics and not the chaotic brilliance of a dyslexic mind stymied that aspiration.
But that smoldering desire to pass on stories, to express his creative soul, couldn't be contained. Inspired by the words of Rohan’s doppelganger Commander Riker, “Fear is the true enemy, the only enemy,” he started to write. At first Rohan spewed words onto the page like he had contracted the simian flu. But, with the help of his friends, Rohan began to sculpt those words into something palpable, something both ancient and new. An invite to everyone to share in the story and, most importantly, have some fun.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 5, 2022
Loved this collection. These stories capture the yearning, joy - or horror of first contact, the tension of existing in hostile environments and with equally hostile people. It's neat to see some people venture into the unknown - and sometimes they don't come back. Happy to have met Öb and known Luce ("Don't just be, always become"). I also want to run away on treasure-seeking adventures with Jack. I will never forget the scene with Liv's risotto. The Pet was very thoughtful and still lurks in my mind. Alinda was fast-paced and high stakes. Deliverance was written so neatly to make me feel the confusion of Neralie.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2022
Sci-Fi Anthology: Into the Unknown . . .
Eleven stories of mystery, discovery, and adventure lead the reader into answering the question of “What lies beyond the known?” All proceeds from the sale of this anthology go to The World Literacy Foundation. Heartfelt thanks go to the contributors listed in the blurb: Contributors - A. Raven Demory, Jason Clor, Rohan O’Duill, S.A. Sackinger, Briana Bedore, H.L.Hinkle, J.P. Reynolds, Duncan Ellis, T. E. LaMonte, Emma Berglund, and Wendy Wee.
There is plenty of action going on here! There is suspense in some of the tales that keeps building and hold the reader’s attention. The world-building can be amazing, the story lines usually fast-paced and intriguing all the way. The characters are well-described, with emotions that jump off the page and let the reader feel everything they are feeling. I was amazed at how much I enjoyed the variety in this Anthology. All the factors that draw me personally into a good sci-fi story were right here. Grab your copy and experience the excitement of a story well told. And know that your purchase is going to help a very good cause in the hands of the World Literacy Foundation. Thank you again, authors, for making this possible.
Eleven stories of mystery, discovery, and adventure lead the reader into answering the question of “What lies beyond the known?” All proceeds from the sale of this anthology go to The World Literacy Foundation. Heartfelt thanks go to the contributors listed in the blurb: Contributors - A. Raven Demory, Jason Clor, Rohan O’Duill, S.A. Sackinger, Briana Bedore, H.L.Hinkle, J.P. Reynolds, Duncan Ellis, T. E. LaMonte, Emma Berglund, and Wendy Wee.
There is plenty of action going on here! There is suspense in some of the tales that keeps building and hold the reader’s attention. The world-building can be amazing, the story lines usually fast-paced and intriguing all the way. The characters are well-described, with emotions that jump off the page and let the reader feel everything they are feeling. I was amazed at how much I enjoyed the variety in this Anthology. All the factors that draw me personally into a good sci-fi story were right here. Grab your copy and experience the excitement of a story well told. And know that your purchase is going to help a very good cause in the hands of the World Literacy Foundation. Thank you again, authors, for making this possible.
August 16, 2022
This anthology brings together the imaginations of eleven rising stars in speculative fiction as they explore the limitless expanse of what we don't know, be it outer space, inner space, cyber space, or mind space. Many of these stories express a strong 'hard' science fiction aspect but many fearlessly venture into other themes and genres as well. Styles and perspectives also take many forms; one of the joys of these tales is that the reader doesn't quite know which variety of unknown they'll be experiencing!
* Venture to one of a myriad of asteroids that harbors a dark secret
* Explore the implications of a truly personal digital assistant
* Join a future "land-rush" to the outer reaches of our solar system
* Discover the hidden dangers of long-distance relationships
* Struggle for survival and enlightenment on a hostile alien world
These adventures and more await within this eclectic collection.
Fans of the 'Love, Death, and Robots' video series will find this book similar in theme by its fearless exploration of a very broad premise (There is a formal content warning in the preface, which - while polite - to this reviewer detracted from the surprise of discovering events as they unfold). Given the tide of the times in 2022, many of the stories express a rather pessimistic view of the multiverse, yet there are ironically humorous tales too.
Several of the contributions appear as segments that could extend or connect to a much larger narrative, kind of a literary amuse-bouche, leaving this reader wanting to find out what comes next from these writers (and then searching their bibliographies)...
Five out of five stars for this one!
Anxiously awaiting the publication of a possible sequel: "Further Into The Unknown"
* Venture to one of a myriad of asteroids that harbors a dark secret
* Explore the implications of a truly personal digital assistant
* Join a future "land-rush" to the outer reaches of our solar system
* Discover the hidden dangers of long-distance relationships
* Struggle for survival and enlightenment on a hostile alien world
These adventures and more await within this eclectic collection.
Fans of the 'Love, Death, and Robots' video series will find this book similar in theme by its fearless exploration of a very broad premise (There is a formal content warning in the preface, which - while polite - to this reviewer detracted from the surprise of discovering events as they unfold). Given the tide of the times in 2022, many of the stories express a rather pessimistic view of the multiverse, yet there are ironically humorous tales too.
Several of the contributions appear as segments that could extend or connect to a much larger narrative, kind of a literary amuse-bouche, leaving this reader wanting to find out what comes next from these writers (and then searching their bibliographies)...
Five out of five stars for this one!
Anxiously awaiting the publication of a possible sequel: "Further Into The Unknown"
June 29, 2022
I was given an Advance Reader Copy of Into The Unknown in exchange for an honest review.
Eleven stories. Eleven takes on what the unknown holds for us. Eleven worlds, waiting to be explored.
These stories are reminiscent of golden-age science fiction, with non-stop adventures and strange worlds that don't follow the laws of earth. The characters, all too human, regularly face that sinking feeling when the pieces click into place and they realize exactly what the rules are. There are some excellent pieces of horror, from sentient maggots to forgetting the coffee grinder on a twenty-year space journey.
While the style reminds me of the best of classic science fiction, the themes are decidedly modern. Like The Expanse, Into The Unknown is science fiction with a political bite. Humanity's relationship with technology is explored through multiple angles. Pet, by Wendy Wee, asks what it means for humanity if we allow AI to make our decisions for us; Marriage Clause, by HL Hinkle, questions our humanity if we abuse AI which is bound to serve us. Climate change is also a recurring theme, with stories of dying colony ships, or of life on an uninhabitable earth.
These stories explore the push and pull that drive us into the unknown, and the adventures that await us there. A must read for all fans of classic science fiction.
Eleven stories. Eleven takes on what the unknown holds for us. Eleven worlds, waiting to be explored.
These stories are reminiscent of golden-age science fiction, with non-stop adventures and strange worlds that don't follow the laws of earth. The characters, all too human, regularly face that sinking feeling when the pieces click into place and they realize exactly what the rules are. There are some excellent pieces of horror, from sentient maggots to forgetting the coffee grinder on a twenty-year space journey.
While the style reminds me of the best of classic science fiction, the themes are decidedly modern. Like The Expanse, Into The Unknown is science fiction with a political bite. Humanity's relationship with technology is explored through multiple angles. Pet, by Wendy Wee, asks what it means for humanity if we allow AI to make our decisions for us; Marriage Clause, by HL Hinkle, questions our humanity if we abuse AI which is bound to serve us. Climate change is also a recurring theme, with stories of dying colony ships, or of life on an uninhabitable earth.
These stories explore the push and pull that drive us into the unknown, and the adventures that await us there. A must read for all fans of classic science fiction.
August 14, 2022
I came across this book by chance, shortly after I finished the last season of “Love, Death, and Robots” and craved more stories that would take me away from everyday life and into the…well, unknown. Just as the title of this collection of short stories says, I didn’t know what awaited me when I started reading, but I decided to give it a try and venture into uncharted territories. I’m glad I did, because not once have I been disappointed, bored, or wanted to turn back.
This anthology is an amazingly good read, and I would recommend it to everyone who enjoys fun, provocative, and well-written short stories. It made me laugh, cheer, sympathize, and, most importantly, think. I’ve always appreciated when science fiction not only offered glimpses into the world of the future but produced characters I could relate to and care for. So, as much as I loved daring visions of the future in these tales, I very much enjoyed the wide range of humans (and other beings) that I got to know along the journey.
There are eleven stories in this collection of SciFi shorts, and they will take you on a wonderful ride across the ages and universes. From cyberpunk to steampunk, the styles and topics are different but equally capturing and entertaining. I loved the format, and after a busy day, I often rewarded myself with a story before going to bed. Of course, I have the favorites that I reread several times, to extract every ounce of meaning and information, or simply have fun, but I won’t say which. I suggest you read the book and decide for yourself.
This anthology is an amazingly good read, and I would recommend it to everyone who enjoys fun, provocative, and well-written short stories. It made me laugh, cheer, sympathize, and, most importantly, think. I’ve always appreciated when science fiction not only offered glimpses into the world of the future but produced characters I could relate to and care for. So, as much as I loved daring visions of the future in these tales, I very much enjoyed the wide range of humans (and other beings) that I got to know along the journey.
There are eleven stories in this collection of SciFi shorts, and they will take you on a wonderful ride across the ages and universes. From cyberpunk to steampunk, the styles and topics are different but equally capturing and entertaining. I loved the format, and after a busy day, I often rewarded myself with a story before going to bed. Of course, I have the favorites that I reread several times, to extract every ounce of meaning and information, or simply have fun, but I won’t say which. I suggest you read the book and decide for yourself.
August 25, 2022
A cracking scifi anthology that I will be purchasing in paperback when it is released in that format.
Thank you so much Rohan and Booksprout for my ebook copy.
There are 11 short stories to send you tumbling into the unknown, each with their own unique perspectives.
The Pet especially makes for an interesting read especially with AI getting smarter. Are we in charge of the technology or is the technology in charge of us?
Thank you so much Rohan and Booksprout for my ebook copy.
There are 11 short stories to send you tumbling into the unknown, each with their own unique perspectives.
The Pet especially makes for an interesting read especially with AI getting smarter. Are we in charge of the technology or is the technology in charge of us?
August 17, 2022
A science fiction anthology with uniquely written stories by a variety of authors. Anthologies are a great way to discover new authors and their unique approach to the genre it is set in. I wasn’t familiar with most of these authors, but it was a nice surprise. There are eleven stories that varied in themes and characters, but melded together perfectly. Each story, contains themes that are familiar to readers of sci-fi and some bring in a new and refreshing tropes. It’s very distinctive and thrilling.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 13, 2022
I had the chance to review an ARC of this anthology and when I say I couldn’t put it down, I truly couldn’t put it down. A new fan of anthologies myself, I love the ability to explore several stories over the course of one book - in this case, eleven of them! If you’re a fan of exploring strange new worlds, science fiction, and the great beyond (whether that beyond is space or examining new technology!) this book is for you. Grounded in themes that highlight the human experience - each story is a new yet familiar adventure. One thing is for certain, there is nothing boring about Into The Unknown!
Oh, it is worth mentioning there are definitely some horror elements present here - as a long time lover of horror that was a plus for me! After all, there’s always something uniquely exciting and horrifying about exploring the unknown, isn’t there?
Oh, it is worth mentioning there are definitely some horror elements present here - as a long time lover of horror that was a plus for me! After all, there’s always something uniquely exciting and horrifying about exploring the unknown, isn’t there?
September 24, 2022
Wide-ranging adventures. Energetic and imaginative, traversing space. Briana Bedore in “The Baron of the Moon” coins a new word, “atmoshroud,” for a protective film on the moon-sky. In J.P. Reynolds’ “It’s Not You, It’s the Anomaly,” a set of talking clothes named Öb says: “I have been trying to reach you for some time, but have had difficulty penetrating the hull of your living quarters and the hull of your consciousness simultaneously.”
June 22, 2022
From distant galaxies to claustrophobic smart homes, Into the Unknown is a thrilling, thought-provoking sci-fi anthology by eleven fresh voices in the genre. These stories barrel headfirst into the mysteries, wonder, and horror that dwell just outside of the everyday. The authors’ visions are grounded in universal human experiences—the frustrations of work, the pang of long-distance romance, and the struggles of coming of age—that bring these imaginative new worlds to life. Delve into the unknown, and you just may find your new favourite author!
July 30, 2022
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
"Into The Unknown" is a fabulous collection of scifi short fiction, in very much an old-school, classic style of SF anthologies. The variety of authors and thus voices makes every new story a fresh and intriguing glimpse into a new world, and many of them offer surprising takes on both classic tropes and new ideas.
Similar, in a sense, to the anthology works of Larry Niven ("N-Space", etc) and the collections that had Gardner Dozois' imprimatur on them over the decades, the collection is not limited to a single overall style or viewpoint, other than all of the stories being, fundamentally, very strongly science fiction, in its purest definition. The sub-genres range from military-sf to steam-punk exploration to space opera to AI terror to fun romance in a space-y setting, and all of them work well for what they're going for.
Not every single story contained is absolutely excellent, but the overall quality of the collection is such that even the handful of tales that felt under-developed or incomplete were still entertaining.
In essence, I would recommend this collection to anyone who grew up reading Azimov's or The Outer Limits and the like, and wants some good old scifi tales running through their brains.
"Into The Unknown" is a fabulous collection of scifi short fiction, in very much an old-school, classic style of SF anthologies. The variety of authors and thus voices makes every new story a fresh and intriguing glimpse into a new world, and many of them offer surprising takes on both classic tropes and new ideas.
Similar, in a sense, to the anthology works of Larry Niven ("N-Space", etc) and the collections that had Gardner Dozois' imprimatur on them over the decades, the collection is not limited to a single overall style or viewpoint, other than all of the stories being, fundamentally, very strongly science fiction, in its purest definition. The sub-genres range from military-sf to steam-punk exploration to space opera to AI terror to fun romance in a space-y setting, and all of them work well for what they're going for.
Not every single story contained is absolutely excellent, but the overall quality of the collection is such that even the handful of tales that felt under-developed or incomplete were still entertaining.
In essence, I would recommend this collection to anyone who grew up reading Azimov's or The Outer Limits and the like, and wants some good old scifi tales running through their brains.
August 20, 2022
Anthology of science fiction from writers' group.
This is a collection of science fiction stories from a group of writers who obviously share ideas and themes. Some of the stories are not so short and would benefit from editing to keep the pace and reduce the telling. Most have the twist or thought provoking ending hallmark of short stories. One seemed to be setting up a whole new world of stories.
There are eleven tales in all with quirky bios of each author. There are trigger warnings given of: cannibalism; gore; profanity; violent imagery disturbing imagery and implied violence. These do not apply to all stories, but I feel that by listing the triggers by story title some of the impact is lost. Another factor denying the full five stars is that there is significant overlap of themes and settings with the juxtaposition detracting from the impact of surrounding tales.
There is a variety of styles on offer and riffs on the genre with romance and mystery sub-plots in some. It is likely you will find something pleasing within the text and sufficient material to provoke thought and contemplation of self and future possibilities. My personal favourite was "The Pet".
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is a collection of science fiction stories from a group of writers who obviously share ideas and themes. Some of the stories are not so short and would benefit from editing to keep the pace and reduce the telling. Most have the twist or thought provoking ending hallmark of short stories. One seemed to be setting up a whole new world of stories.
There are eleven tales in all with quirky bios of each author. There are trigger warnings given of: cannibalism; gore; profanity; violent imagery disturbing imagery and implied violence. These do not apply to all stories, but I feel that by listing the triggers by story title some of the impact is lost. Another factor denying the full five stars is that there is significant overlap of themes and settings with the juxtaposition detracting from the impact of surrounding tales.
There is a variety of styles on offer and riffs on the genre with romance and mystery sub-plots in some. It is likely you will find something pleasing within the text and sufficient material to provoke thought and contemplation of self and future possibilities. My personal favourite was "The Pet".
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 15, 2022
So, I am one of the contributors and an editor of this anthology, so I am obviously biassed. But I would like to say how great some of the writing is here from a number of first time authors.
'Its not you its the anomaly' is maybe my favourite from the bunch. A lot of humour and a very relatable character. 'Marriage clause' was brilliantly written and I loved the the practical and very real MC. 'Always become is a dark and brooding masterpiece. 'Deliverance' creates a very claustrophobic and atmospheric piece as a fleet of generation ships are slowly decaying and falling apart as the MC fails to find a new home for the inhabitants. 'The pet' asks some really interesting questions about where we are heading with AI. 'The Baron of the moon' is excellently written and scared the bejaysus out of me. 'Extramural' is a really stylish piece of writing and a big story for a short story. 'Marbles' is beautifully written and really brings you into the story. 'Birds of fortune' is a romantic steampunk adventure that adds a bit of levity to the anthology. 'The Oort' is a race for first contact.
Alinda is the story I wrote, but you will have to make your own mind up about that one.
'Its not you its the anomaly' is maybe my favourite from the bunch. A lot of humour and a very relatable character. 'Marriage clause' was brilliantly written and I loved the the practical and very real MC. 'Always become is a dark and brooding masterpiece. 'Deliverance' creates a very claustrophobic and atmospheric piece as a fleet of generation ships are slowly decaying and falling apart as the MC fails to find a new home for the inhabitants. 'The pet' asks some really interesting questions about where we are heading with AI. 'The Baron of the moon' is excellently written and scared the bejaysus out of me. 'Extramural' is a really stylish piece of writing and a big story for a short story. 'Marbles' is beautifully written and really brings you into the story. 'Birds of fortune' is a romantic steampunk adventure that adds a bit of levity to the anthology. 'The Oort' is a race for first contact.
Alinda is the story I wrote, but you will have to make your own mind up about that one.
February 8, 2023
Don't Waste Your Time
This anthology of several short Science Fiction stories misses the mark. A few of the stories were mildly interesting, but not enough to make it worth your time.
This anthology of several short Science Fiction stories misses the mark. A few of the stories were mildly interesting, but not enough to make it worth your time.
July 24, 2022
As with any collection some stories are better than others. I'm not a big horror fan, so I appreciated the tales that didn't get too gory or scary.
Proud to say that our friend Duncan Ellis has a contribution here and I loved his ideas.
Proud to say that our friend Duncan Ellis has a contribution here and I loved his ideas.
November 14, 2022
Amazon Rating: ☆★★★★
Book Rating: ☆☆★★★
—
Alinda - 3.5/5 stars - A crew has been hired to pick up something shady from some shady high-up militaresque people - I remember loving the prose of the first story. The descriptors were quite imaginative and had me chewing over them. I also like the story idea and admit I've contemplated it a bit. There was a slight Expanse feel to everything: the world, ships and characters. But I admit I was torn from Emerson a couple of times. There seemed to be a few jumps that left me confused as to where and when I was. It felt like it wanted to be a longwr tail and as a short story, it could've been handled maybe a little differently. I still enjoyed it a lot. I just got confused a couple of times (I could've just been extra tired)
Pet - 3.5/5 - A lady, her pet dog and her AI-controlled house have to weather out a hurricane - I liked the simplicity. And the logic behind it. I also found myself saying the exact same things as the protagonist, (which is uber rare for me!) My mind rejected the statements just like the protag. How dare you think that! But the beauty is the logic behind it. Though I do question if I'd make the same decisions. I'm sure plenty of us would (perhaps I would too) though I'd like to say I wouldn't.
Deliverance - 4/5 - tbh I can't recall what I read at all. That's so embarrassing to admit. But my brain is drawing a big blank. All I remember is that this was quite a unique story, something I— oooh, I just remembered what it was about, lol. Funny how the brain does that. One keyword - unique - and it all comes back. A survival floatia with one mission: Find a new home before the ships break apart. I loved the premise of this. And I loved the conspiracy that unfolded around it. Wasn't too sure about the execution. Again I became a little confused once or twice. But again that might be exhaustion sapping my brain power. But despite that, this is the kind of world I would enjoy watching on TV. Either as an episodic or serial-type thing. So much potential. But that's my mind going a little off-topic and hijacking someone else's universe (good world-building has that effect on me)
Extramurel - 3/5 - two siblings with dreams of escaping their home and venturing into space but theres something a bit odd about their house - I admit I didn't really like this story, it was a 2 for me but I feel others might enjoy it so gave it a 3 on that likelihood. I didn't enjoy the character interaction or dialogue. I don't mind a science lesson in stories, actually, I enjoy them. But I don't think I've ever come across one in short story format. It just didn't work for me.
Birds of fortune - 2/5 - Indiana Jones on an airship - this story isn't doing anything for me. The main character is too caught up in the sexy male character she bearly knows who just so happens to invite her and her alone on an adventure. I guess if you are into potential romance. I can't even enjoy the adventure side as every instance seems to be overshadowed by her schoolgirl crush behaviour. And sitting in conclusion I'm left wondering why this is selected for a scifi anthropology? I was wondering if there would be some alien connection but I was left with … I don't know what … a maybe.
Baron of the Moon - 4/5 - the ruler of the moon and his partner have disappeared somewhere on the far side of the moon, meanwhile the vultures are circling in. What happens if he returns? - off the bat I enjoy the writing style. Descriptive and imaginative. I don't really have much to say about this story except that I thoroughly enjoyed it: writing, concept and execution. There is an old-school feel to it, like 50s to 70s-styled scifi, something A.E. van Vogt would dig. Really hits the nostalgia.
Marbles - 3.5/5 - alone in the desert with a paranoid grandparent - If I'm being 100% honest I have no idea what was going on. But that's ok, I enjoyed this story regardless. And I think that's the point. Seeing the world through the eyes of a child with only a half-crazed relative to glimpse through the rest. Or perhaps I just need to read it again.
Oort - 2/5 - ok, This is a soild no from me. I like that this story is uses real physics but there are a lot of problems with it. The assumption of the mystery moon maintaining its current location for 20-30 years is one of them. Seems like the dumbest risk one can imagine for just two points of data. An awful lot of people are secretly running around doing secret things. I have a bit of hatred for storylines where I'm internally screaming "why haven't you told anyone?" … Lack of communication isn’t a good story prompt in my mind. Not a major one anyway. Not saying others won't like it. It is well written but it's one of those human behaviour tropes I hate. The more I read the more I’m frustrated. Just the pure assumption of everything (including the "aliens"). And there could've been a unique dynamic where they were all in radio contact with the other ships and have interesting friendship-rivalry at play. There's certainly potential. I'm sure some folk will love it, but my rational brain was in despair more than once.
Marriage Clause - 4/5 - long distance relationships are rarely what they seem - Loved this story. Was a bit gailliamsque, which is my thing. Thought the dress was a bit extreme but hey, stranger things have happened. Great descriptive style too.
It's Not You It's the Anomaly - 3.5/5 - a reasonable and enjoyable story. I like the premise of the anomaly and without giving away spoilers the resulting technicolour spell. The character's realisation of his own shortcomings was nice too, it’s a lesson many of us could learn.
Always Become - 3.5/5 - again another solid story. Simple and imaginative. Pictures come alive. Don’t really have much to say on top of that. I liked the native flora and fauna concepts and I’d explore that world. Though I do wonder how safe I’d be.
Conclusion: there is a wide variety here. As you can see some I really enjoyed and some I did not. I feel that means there is something here for everyone. You might very well love Some of the stories that didn't draw me in, and might not be keen on the ones I loved.
—
My rating Systems:
Amazon Rating: (because they suck when it comes to book ratings)
5 – Fantastic work. Anything from brilliant to highly likeable.
4 – A decent solid piece of writing with a lot going for it. I really dig your jive.
X – No rating if I didn’t like it or think others won’t like it.
All other Book Rating Systems:
5 – Absolutely genius. I probably want to marry you.
4 – Fantastic story. I loved it and will pick up your other work without hesitation.
3 – A good, solid story. I enjoyed it and if it wasn’t quite my thing I’m sure others would dig it.
2 – I wasn’t into it. Some potential but missed opportunities.
1 – Yeah, na.
Typically my Amazon score is my honest rating + an extra star.
I try to star-rate with the intended audience in mind, not my own personal feelings.
Book Rating: ☆☆★★★
—
Alinda - 3.5/5 stars - A crew has been hired to pick up something shady from some shady high-up militaresque people - I remember loving the prose of the first story. The descriptors were quite imaginative and had me chewing over them. I also like the story idea and admit I've contemplated it a bit. There was a slight Expanse feel to everything: the world, ships and characters. But I admit I was torn from Emerson a couple of times. There seemed to be a few jumps that left me confused as to where and when I was. It felt like it wanted to be a longwr tail and as a short story, it could've been handled maybe a little differently. I still enjoyed it a lot. I just got confused a couple of times (I could've just been extra tired)
Pet - 3.5/5 - A lady, her pet dog and her AI-controlled house have to weather out a hurricane - I liked the simplicity. And the logic behind it. I also found myself saying the exact same things as the protagonist, (which is uber rare for me!) My mind rejected the statements just like the protag. How dare you think that! But the beauty is the logic behind it. Though I do question if I'd make the same decisions. I'm sure plenty of us would (perhaps I would too) though I'd like to say I wouldn't.
Deliverance - 4/5 - tbh I can't recall what I read at all. That's so embarrassing to admit. But my brain is drawing a big blank. All I remember is that this was quite a unique story, something I— oooh, I just remembered what it was about, lol. Funny how the brain does that. One keyword - unique - and it all comes back. A survival floatia with one mission: Find a new home before the ships break apart. I loved the premise of this. And I loved the conspiracy that unfolded around it. Wasn't too sure about the execution. Again I became a little confused once or twice. But again that might be exhaustion sapping my brain power. But despite that, this is the kind of world I would enjoy watching on TV. Either as an episodic or serial-type thing. So much potential. But that's my mind going a little off-topic and hijacking someone else's universe (good world-building has that effect on me)
Extramurel - 3/5 - two siblings with dreams of escaping their home and venturing into space but theres something a bit odd about their house - I admit I didn't really like this story, it was a 2 for me but I feel others might enjoy it so gave it a 3 on that likelihood. I didn't enjoy the character interaction or dialogue. I don't mind a science lesson in stories, actually, I enjoy them. But I don't think I've ever come across one in short story format. It just didn't work for me.
Birds of fortune - 2/5 - Indiana Jones on an airship - this story isn't doing anything for me. The main character is too caught up in the sexy male character she bearly knows who just so happens to invite her and her alone on an adventure. I guess if you are into potential romance. I can't even enjoy the adventure side as every instance seems to be overshadowed by her schoolgirl crush behaviour. And sitting in conclusion I'm left wondering why this is selected for a scifi anthropology? I was wondering if there would be some alien connection but I was left with … I don't know what … a maybe.
Baron of the Moon - 4/5 - the ruler of the moon and his partner have disappeared somewhere on the far side of the moon, meanwhile the vultures are circling in. What happens if he returns? - off the bat I enjoy the writing style. Descriptive and imaginative. I don't really have much to say about this story except that I thoroughly enjoyed it: writing, concept and execution. There is an old-school feel to it, like 50s to 70s-styled scifi, something A.E. van Vogt would dig. Really hits the nostalgia.
Marbles - 3.5/5 - alone in the desert with a paranoid grandparent - If I'm being 100% honest I have no idea what was going on. But that's ok, I enjoyed this story regardless. And I think that's the point. Seeing the world through the eyes of a child with only a half-crazed relative to glimpse through the rest. Or perhaps I just need to read it again.
Oort - 2/5 - ok, This is a soild no from me. I like that this story is uses real physics but there are a lot of problems with it. The assumption of the mystery moon maintaining its current location for 20-30 years is one of them. Seems like the dumbest risk one can imagine for just two points of data. An awful lot of people are secretly running around doing secret things. I have a bit of hatred for storylines where I'm internally screaming "why haven't you told anyone?" … Lack of communication isn’t a good story prompt in my mind. Not a major one anyway. Not saying others won't like it. It is well written but it's one of those human behaviour tropes I hate. The more I read the more I’m frustrated. Just the pure assumption of everything (including the "aliens"). And there could've been a unique dynamic where they were all in radio contact with the other ships and have interesting friendship-rivalry at play. There's certainly potential. I'm sure some folk will love it, but my rational brain was in despair more than once.
Marriage Clause - 4/5 - long distance relationships are rarely what they seem - Loved this story. Was a bit gailliamsque, which is my thing. Thought the dress was a bit extreme but hey, stranger things have happened. Great descriptive style too.
It's Not You It's the Anomaly - 3.5/5 - a reasonable and enjoyable story. I like the premise of the anomaly and without giving away spoilers the resulting technicolour spell. The character's realisation of his own shortcomings was nice too, it’s a lesson many of us could learn.
Always Become - 3.5/5 - again another solid story. Simple and imaginative. Pictures come alive. Don’t really have much to say on top of that. I liked the native flora and fauna concepts and I’d explore that world. Though I do wonder how safe I’d be.
Conclusion: there is a wide variety here. As you can see some I really enjoyed and some I did not. I feel that means there is something here for everyone. You might very well love Some of the stories that didn't draw me in, and might not be keen on the ones I loved.
—
My rating Systems:
Amazon Rating: (because they suck when it comes to book ratings)
5 – Fantastic work. Anything from brilliant to highly likeable.
4 – A decent solid piece of writing with a lot going for it. I really dig your jive.
X – No rating if I didn’t like it or think others won’t like it.
All other Book Rating Systems:
5 – Absolutely genius. I probably want to marry you.
4 – Fantastic story. I loved it and will pick up your other work without hesitation.
3 – A good, solid story. I enjoyed it and if it wasn’t quite my thing I’m sure others would dig it.
2 – I wasn’t into it. Some potential but missed opportunities.
1 – Yeah, na.
Typically my Amazon score is my honest rating + an extra star.
I try to star-rate with the intended audience in mind, not my own personal feelings.
Read
March 3, 2023While I wasn't sure about some of the stories in this anthology (to me they needed to be longer; great ideas but not enough time to develop), my absolute favorite was "Pet" by Wendy Wee. It explores an interesting idea about our relationship with AI all while telling a micro-narrative in such a deft way you aren't quite sure how to feel about it. A brilliant and thought-provoking short with just the right pacing.
March 12, 2023
Into the Unknown was an intriguing, sometimes eerie, collection of stories, each of which I enjoyed very much. They all stood very well on their own and dipped into diverse themes and genres like horror, fantasy, adventure, and speculative fiction. It's a great work, and I'm excited to read more from the authors involved.
June 3, 2023
I could only read the first four before quitting. None of the stories relate to the setup in the preface. Skip it.
The title of the compilation (probably from Signals e-magazine stories) was unoriginal. I counted at least 32 results with that exact name on the first two Amazon search pages.
Many questions use said as a tag instead of asked.
Much of the dialog could employ more contractions for better flow. This could be the mix of British versus American writers. Spelling styles weren’t consistent either.
They need transition stars to indicate a scene break in an e-book.
The collection needs editing. Examples are provided for each short.
ALINDA
Eventually, the atmosphere reminded me of the first Alien movie and the sequel. The action tone is that of an Arnold or Bruce Willis movie, with lots of one-liners. But I saw no setting or descriptions for four pages. The author never says what the title location, Alina, is; although, five paragraphs from the end, we finally learn it’s an asteroid. The description of the big, important artifact is limited to “a hexagonal container” that only one person ever sees. He also never tells us what a Strat is. We hear a couple references to Sink but never discuss gender or specialties. Science/logic flaws: How can a knock reverberate in vacuum? Or someone hear a reply through a double hull? The naked people change from corpses to unconscious without visible inspection or scanning. If an AI is formidable enough to fight a war, they probably have a name for it other than the AI. Two drones attached to the hull, and then the same two bogies are incoming. The operative suddenly has a disk drive in her pack with no mention of how it got there. If the flying drones don’t have thrusters, how did they fly through space earlier when they were incoming? The POV character targets the naked humans but never pulls a trigger or fires.
Spelling and Grammar:
Eery should be eerie
Titanium(dash)covered fingers
“The shipwreck we are looking for should be hundreds of years old,” period not comma
Has ever got (gotten, though emerged would be a stronger word) In fact, the word got is overused.
“Bring one of them— (who/what? vague antecedent)
THE PET
A funny problem with an AI assistant. No setting or description of people or places. Clunky repetitive prose examples:
he sprints to the door and barks at it. “What is it?” I say. He turns to me, then turns back to the door and continues barking. … I walk to the door and investigate through the peephole.
He paws at the door and whimpers, and it feels like I’m being stabbed a million times. “I’m so sorry, Max,” I say through the door. … I hasten to the door and look through the peephole.
she says, throwing my earlier question back at me. I throw my hands up and huff
too many instances of using the other person’s name at the start or end of each sentence in dialog.
Logic issues: She gets up on her feet after she’s already standing. Why bang on a door while all the other people are sequestered indoors during a hurricane? Who would hear you?
Spelling and Grammar:
When two verbs share the same subject, don’t use a comma between them. Example: I scoff, and open the door.
“No?!” only use one punctuation mark.
No comma before a trailing dependent clause: She can’t feel bothered,(cut) since she’s not human.
My eyes go to Max (comma) and I feel bad for that thought.
Another voice claps (wrong word) back.
DELIVERANCE
The smoothest and slickest style, but the opening scene has nothing to do with the story.
The next seven pages of information leads to more questions than answers. The scenario has potential, but then it gets violent, confusing, and contradictory, with chunks out of order.
Spelling and grammar:
Sun lamps – one word not two
Once over is hyphenated
All twelve employees were present (comma)yet people were sitting idle at their workstations or laughing into the adjacent break room.
Give me a minute, I’ll reset it. (comma splice)
Four sentences began with ellipses unnecessarily.
EXTRAMURAL
A lot of looking, laughing, standing, and nodding, probably due to the dislike of the word said. Too much using the person’s name in dialog and a lack of pronouns. Awkward and repetitive prose:
“Hello,” Julian said, standing next to Alice. “I’m Julian and this is Alice. …Are we on a spaceship?” Alice looked sideways at Julian, pointing at the window. “Obviously we’re on a spaceship.” She turned back to the couple in the doorway. “Where is this spaceship?” The man and woman looked at each other, then between Alice and Julian. It was the woman who smiled first, tentatively, nodding. “Yes, this spaceship.
Spelling and grammar:
Typo. The sole instance of Jeff should be Jaff.
Commas not colons for dialog tags.
figure out if that was–“ end quote wrong direction
“I—“ Julian swallowed end quote wrong direction
Pea pod, star drive – one word not two
Hi(comma) mum (capitalize)
Hi(comma) Julian
Hi(comma) sis
It opened to his keycode(comma) and he stepped inside
Is dad(capitalized) going to be home soon?
His door was closed(comma) and Alice’s was slightly open.
The bed was rumpled(comma) and her clothes were piled up on it
She was sounding a surprised shout(comma) and he couldn’t help
he pushed her braids out of her eyes,(no comma) and looked around the room again.
I wasn’t expecting the light(comma) and I couldn’t help reaching out.
I’m Julian (comma)and this is Alice.
He ran at the wall(comma) but the picture was gone.
Liss’s eyes crinkled(comma) and she started to cry
Watching Alice’s face(comma) Julian noticed the light on her skin change.
Mum and dad(capitalize, insert missing verb) looking for us
Tell mum and dad. (capitalize both)
BIRDS OF FORTUNE
Periods should go inside the quotes.
No space after the period and before end quote
End of quote interruptions should be emdash not a simple hyphen.
as if its heart was beating. (were)
No one knows why(comma) and it’s been a mystery exactly where this kingdom was located.”
The tea ends up in the wrong pipe(comma) and I cough,
The last piece of the biscuit goes into his mouth(comma) and he chews thoughtfully.
Jack looks up at the sound(comma) and I quickly close my mouth
Then the moment is gone(comma) and he takes off across the deck.
Ant coughs to a start(comma) and two metallic antennae emerge from the head to steer with.
One second Ant swings slowly in the wires(comma) and the next we’re free falling(run-on) and the wind’s rushing by.
the trees are bending and shuddering alarmingly(comma) and the undergrowth rustles
I press the first button I see(comma) and somehow the vehicle starts.
It opens on top of the round vehicle(comma) and a head pops up.
he pulls the protruding part of the right death flower to the side (comma) and the statue unfolds a wing,
He locks my gaze(comma) and I can’t breathe.
I’m sure you remember the headlines in the press, there were columns written about him for months. (comma splice)
I went to several of his lectures, they were fascinating. (comma splice)
THE BARON OF THE MOON
Opened with an 87 syllable sentence
Point blank as a adjective should be hyphenated
End quotes should be consistent: two break the convention
they wanted to come back with us…’’
They’re in all of you!’’
Mateo’s hands curled into fists(comma) and her heart surged
no one needs bones for a funeral, they barely need an explanation. (comma splice)
He slipped away(comma) and Mateo followed.
as if she was a stubborn child. (were)
He dropped his napkin(comma) and a handful of fat maggots spilled out of it while another struggled free from his nostril.
she spat,(no comma) and fired.
MARBLES
Clean other than missing commas between compound sentences.
The house erupted into static(comma) and I sat awake.
The weatherman came on(comma) and Grandpa stopped
My bowl was empty (comma) and I set it on the porch rail
The sky was my favorite shade of pink(comma) and Grandpa’s garden was blooming
And nine more of the same.
OORT
First three verbs are all found
We found alien presence in the solar system. I just never expected they’d boot the head of the company that found it. Of course, they didn’t believe me when it was I who found the alien craft out in the Oort Cloud.
Some of the prose was underwhelming.
Ben flipped the switch to start the countdown. It was the main pilot board that counted. Everything started with that program.
Slow-down, sling-shot, make-up, air-lock – one word, no hyphen
Half way, slow down – one word
“Greet the Aliens”. Period goes inside quote
I’d like to talk specifics(comma) and we want to keep this trip hush-hush.
you’re Engineering(comma) and the two of us are Navigation.
We don’t have the technology to accelerate that fast(comma) and it certainly wasn’t natural.
why are we sitting around here?! (pick one punctuation)
20(spell out) years was a long time(comma) and everything they needed had to come with them.
Saturn isn’t in a position to use(comma) or I’d include it as well.
Moon Base has launched a ship and it’s heading outsystem.
They were at an impasse(comma) and they both knew it.
Three weeks out from the asteroid belt(comma) Ben caught a new problem.
The ship performed its duties perfectly(comma) and the speed coming out of Jupiter was sufficient to improve over the Mars ship’s speed.
Ibrahim sat to the left of the main console and Ben(comma) and Alexia sat to the right of him.
The cucumbers are ripe(comma) and so are the tomatoes.
the attitude of the rocket changed(comma) and they were climbing out of the gravity well.
The hapless thruster that had been fixed broke off(comma) and fuel leaked from the ship.
the airlock flashed green(comma) and Alexia moved out into space
Alexia set the mended thruster in its home just ten minutes before it was needed,(no comma) and hurried back inside.
MARRIAGE
One-time – one word
It wasn’t that I didn’t want to marry him, it was just complicated. (comma splice)
Doors hissed shut(comma) and lights flickered
ANOMALY
poorly-cared-for, don’t use hyphens with ly adverbs
repetition:
Janus looks in what must be the direction of Julia 15’s workstation where someone who must be Julia is craning her neck in our direction. “Ah, I see her right there!” I say, moving in Julia’s direction.
Being able to sense your body while all of your senses tell you that there is, in fact, no such thing as a body is violently disorienting. But the shapes that are forming don’t make any sense.
I accepted(comma) and we clinked the necks of the bottles.
I just bumped into Sang-Kyu (comma) and he gave me something to pass along to you.
we weren’t exactly an obvious pairing, but she seemed to like me, so I went with it. (run-on)
These guys actually believe in something(comma) and it’s terrifying.
they converted the researcher housing into a suite of executive lavatories(comma) and we took the opportunity to move in together.
This kind of stuff is in his blood, he’s got psychic relatives going back to Earth-times.(comma splice)
my wife is out there(comma) and she’s never going to take me back if I let her die!
I reach Julia’s workstation(comma) and… I take a knee in front of her.
My outrage fades(comma) and I shift to catatonia.
“ …we don’t really (don’t begin quote with a space)
The colors coalesce(comma) and shapes form out of the uniformly vibrant void.
Everything clicks into place(comma) and suddenly I’m alone in a version of the station that feels almost right
I could be speaking with an alien(comma) or maybe the Anomaly is scrambling my brain
I’m not a scientist and hopefully, in the future, we won’t be so stupid as to fire missiles at the Anomaly.
but my wife is out there(comma) and I’m worried (run-on)
The swirls of color disappear(comma) and Rik materializes in front of me
I saved her(comma) and now she’ll have to take me back, but then (run-on)
ALWAYS BECOME
For a moment starts sentences 5 times in a short period.
Life forms, light years – should be hyphenated
Pole star is one word
Biotek should be biotech
Something is given(comma) and something is taken.
Something caught in my throat(comma) and I gagged.
Her eyes goggled(comma) and I recoiled.
The title of the compilation (probably from Signals e-magazine stories) was unoriginal. I counted at least 32 results with that exact name on the first two Amazon search pages.
Many questions use said as a tag instead of asked.
Much of the dialog could employ more contractions for better flow. This could be the mix of British versus American writers. Spelling styles weren’t consistent either.
They need transition stars to indicate a scene break in an e-book.
The collection needs editing. Examples are provided for each short.
ALINDA
Eventually, the atmosphere reminded me of the first Alien movie and the sequel. The action tone is that of an Arnold or Bruce Willis movie, with lots of one-liners. But I saw no setting or descriptions for four pages. The author never says what the title location, Alina, is; although, five paragraphs from the end, we finally learn it’s an asteroid. The description of the big, important artifact is limited to “a hexagonal container” that only one person ever sees. He also never tells us what a Strat is. We hear a couple references to Sink but never discuss gender or specialties. Science/logic flaws: How can a knock reverberate in vacuum? Or someone hear a reply through a double hull? The naked people change from corpses to unconscious without visible inspection or scanning. If an AI is formidable enough to fight a war, they probably have a name for it other than the AI. Two drones attached to the hull, and then the same two bogies are incoming. The operative suddenly has a disk drive in her pack with no mention of how it got there. If the flying drones don’t have thrusters, how did they fly through space earlier when they were incoming? The POV character targets the naked humans but never pulls a trigger or fires.
Spelling and Grammar:
Eery should be eerie
Titanium(dash)covered fingers
“The shipwreck we are looking for should be hundreds of years old,” period not comma
Has ever got (gotten, though emerged would be a stronger word) In fact, the word got is overused.
“Bring one of them— (who/what? vague antecedent)
THE PET
A funny problem with an AI assistant. No setting or description of people or places. Clunky repetitive prose examples:
he sprints to the door and barks at it. “What is it?” I say. He turns to me, then turns back to the door and continues barking. … I walk to the door and investigate through the peephole.
He paws at the door and whimpers, and it feels like I’m being stabbed a million times. “I’m so sorry, Max,” I say through the door. … I hasten to the door and look through the peephole.
she says, throwing my earlier question back at me. I throw my hands up and huff
too many instances of using the other person’s name at the start or end of each sentence in dialog.
Logic issues: She gets up on her feet after she’s already standing. Why bang on a door while all the other people are sequestered indoors during a hurricane? Who would hear you?
Spelling and Grammar:
When two verbs share the same subject, don’t use a comma between them. Example: I scoff, and open the door.
“No?!” only use one punctuation mark.
No comma before a trailing dependent clause: She can’t feel bothered,(cut) since she’s not human.
My eyes go to Max (comma) and I feel bad for that thought.
Another voice claps (wrong word) back.
DELIVERANCE
The smoothest and slickest style, but the opening scene has nothing to do with the story.
The next seven pages of information leads to more questions than answers. The scenario has potential, but then it gets violent, confusing, and contradictory, with chunks out of order.
Spelling and grammar:
Sun lamps – one word not two
Once over is hyphenated
All twelve employees were present (comma)yet people were sitting idle at their workstations or laughing into the adjacent break room.
Give me a minute, I’ll reset it. (comma splice)
Four sentences began with ellipses unnecessarily.
EXTRAMURAL
A lot of looking, laughing, standing, and nodding, probably due to the dislike of the word said. Too much using the person’s name in dialog and a lack of pronouns. Awkward and repetitive prose:
“Hello,” Julian said, standing next to Alice. “I’m Julian and this is Alice. …Are we on a spaceship?” Alice looked sideways at Julian, pointing at the window. “Obviously we’re on a spaceship.” She turned back to the couple in the doorway. “Where is this spaceship?” The man and woman looked at each other, then between Alice and Julian. It was the woman who smiled first, tentatively, nodding. “Yes, this spaceship.
Spelling and grammar:
Typo. The sole instance of Jeff should be Jaff.
Commas not colons for dialog tags.
figure out if that was–“ end quote wrong direction
“I—“ Julian swallowed end quote wrong direction
Pea pod, star drive – one word not two
Hi(comma) mum (capitalize)
Hi(comma) Julian
Hi(comma) sis
It opened to his keycode(comma) and he stepped inside
Is dad(capitalized) going to be home soon?
His door was closed(comma) and Alice’s was slightly open.
The bed was rumpled(comma) and her clothes were piled up on it
She was sounding a surprised shout(comma) and he couldn’t help
he pushed her braids out of her eyes,(no comma) and looked around the room again.
I wasn’t expecting the light(comma) and I couldn’t help reaching out.
I’m Julian (comma)and this is Alice.
He ran at the wall(comma) but the picture was gone.
Liss’s eyes crinkled(comma) and she started to cry
Watching Alice’s face(comma) Julian noticed the light on her skin change.
Mum and dad(capitalize, insert missing verb) looking for us
Tell mum and dad. (capitalize both)
BIRDS OF FORTUNE
Periods should go inside the quotes.
No space after the period and before end quote
End of quote interruptions should be emdash not a simple hyphen.
as if its heart was beating. (were)
No one knows why(comma) and it’s been a mystery exactly where this kingdom was located.”
The tea ends up in the wrong pipe(comma) and I cough,
The last piece of the biscuit goes into his mouth(comma) and he chews thoughtfully.
Jack looks up at the sound(comma) and I quickly close my mouth
Then the moment is gone(comma) and he takes off across the deck.
Ant coughs to a start(comma) and two metallic antennae emerge from the head to steer with.
One second Ant swings slowly in the wires(comma) and the next we’re free falling(run-on) and the wind’s rushing by.
the trees are bending and shuddering alarmingly(comma) and the undergrowth rustles
I press the first button I see(comma) and somehow the vehicle starts.
It opens on top of the round vehicle(comma) and a head pops up.
he pulls the protruding part of the right death flower to the side (comma) and the statue unfolds a wing,
He locks my gaze(comma) and I can’t breathe.
I’m sure you remember the headlines in the press, there were columns written about him for months. (comma splice)
I went to several of his lectures, they were fascinating. (comma splice)
THE BARON OF THE MOON
Opened with an 87 syllable sentence
Point blank as a adjective should be hyphenated
End quotes should be consistent: two break the convention
they wanted to come back with us…’’
They’re in all of you!’’
Mateo’s hands curled into fists(comma) and her heart surged
no one needs bones for a funeral, they barely need an explanation. (comma splice)
He slipped away(comma) and Mateo followed.
as if she was a stubborn child. (were)
He dropped his napkin(comma) and a handful of fat maggots spilled out of it while another struggled free from his nostril.
she spat,(no comma) and fired.
MARBLES
Clean other than missing commas between compound sentences.
The house erupted into static(comma) and I sat awake.
The weatherman came on(comma) and Grandpa stopped
My bowl was empty (comma) and I set it on the porch rail
The sky was my favorite shade of pink(comma) and Grandpa’s garden was blooming
And nine more of the same.
OORT
First three verbs are all found
We found alien presence in the solar system. I just never expected they’d boot the head of the company that found it. Of course, they didn’t believe me when it was I who found the alien craft out in the Oort Cloud.
Some of the prose was underwhelming.
Ben flipped the switch to start the countdown. It was the main pilot board that counted. Everything started with that program.
Slow-down, sling-shot, make-up, air-lock – one word, no hyphen
Half way, slow down – one word
“Greet the Aliens”. Period goes inside quote
I’d like to talk specifics(comma) and we want to keep this trip hush-hush.
you’re Engineering(comma) and the two of us are Navigation.
We don’t have the technology to accelerate that fast(comma) and it certainly wasn’t natural.
why are we sitting around here?! (pick one punctuation)
20(spell out) years was a long time(comma) and everything they needed had to come with them.
Saturn isn’t in a position to use(comma) or I’d include it as well.
Moon Base has launched a ship and it’s heading outsystem.
They were at an impasse(comma) and they both knew it.
Three weeks out from the asteroid belt(comma) Ben caught a new problem.
The ship performed its duties perfectly(comma) and the speed coming out of Jupiter was sufficient to improve over the Mars ship’s speed.
Ibrahim sat to the left of the main console and Ben(comma) and Alexia sat to the right of him.
The cucumbers are ripe(comma) and so are the tomatoes.
the attitude of the rocket changed(comma) and they were climbing out of the gravity well.
The hapless thruster that had been fixed broke off(comma) and fuel leaked from the ship.
the airlock flashed green(comma) and Alexia moved out into space
Alexia set the mended thruster in its home just ten minutes before it was needed,(no comma) and hurried back inside.
MARRIAGE
One-time – one word
It wasn’t that I didn’t want to marry him, it was just complicated. (comma splice)
Doors hissed shut(comma) and lights flickered
ANOMALY
poorly-cared-for, don’t use hyphens with ly adverbs
repetition:
Janus looks in what must be the direction of Julia 15’s workstation where someone who must be Julia is craning her neck in our direction. “Ah, I see her right there!” I say, moving in Julia’s direction.
Being able to sense your body while all of your senses tell you that there is, in fact, no such thing as a body is violently disorienting. But the shapes that are forming don’t make any sense.
I accepted(comma) and we clinked the necks of the bottles.
I just bumped into Sang-Kyu (comma) and he gave me something to pass along to you.
we weren’t exactly an obvious pairing, but she seemed to like me, so I went with it. (run-on)
These guys actually believe in something(comma) and it’s terrifying.
they converted the researcher housing into a suite of executive lavatories(comma) and we took the opportunity to move in together.
This kind of stuff is in his blood, he’s got psychic relatives going back to Earth-times.(comma splice)
my wife is out there(comma) and she’s never going to take me back if I let her die!
I reach Julia’s workstation(comma) and… I take a knee in front of her.
My outrage fades(comma) and I shift to catatonia.
“ …we don’t really (don’t begin quote with a space)
The colors coalesce(comma) and shapes form out of the uniformly vibrant void.
Everything clicks into place(comma) and suddenly I’m alone in a version of the station that feels almost right
I could be speaking with an alien(comma) or maybe the Anomaly is scrambling my brain
I’m not a scientist and hopefully, in the future, we won’t be so stupid as to fire missiles at the Anomaly.
but my wife is out there(comma) and I’m worried (run-on)
The swirls of color disappear(comma) and Rik materializes in front of me
I saved her(comma) and now she’ll have to take me back, but then (run-on)
ALWAYS BECOME
For a moment starts sentences 5 times in a short period.
Life forms, light years – should be hyphenated
Pole star is one word
Biotek should be biotech
Something is given(comma) and something is taken.
Something caught in my throat(comma) and I gagged.
Her eyes goggled(comma) and I recoiled.
October 10, 2022
A fun and eerie read!!!!
One of my resolutions earlier this year was to read more short stories. I had gone away from short stories in more recent times; I used to love reading sci-fi short story anthologies in particular, so this book took me right back! I love when you open an anthology and you wonder what kind of weird shit directions you're going to go in--Into the Unknown did not disappoint.
A collection of eleven tales, eleven styles and flavors and focuses. Deep space gone wrong, AI gone rogue, inter-galactical political intrigue, Indiana Jones meets space? Getting married when your betrothed lives a six month space journey away. The search for life off and outside our planet and the wonder (fear and sometimes chaos--a few times, horror) that happens when we finally touch it.
In the end, was it worth it? Did you find the answers you were looking for? (From the last story, 'Always Become'---which had a cool riff on cancerfication (!!) ((And was also one of my favorites). Hopping from galaxy to galaxy, atmosphere to atmosphere ((and a few stories, though this may not be the case for other readers, genuinely freaked me out!))--if you're a sci-fi fan, then I recommend you pick it up!
One of my resolutions earlier this year was to read more short stories. I had gone away from short stories in more recent times; I used to love reading sci-fi short story anthologies in particular, so this book took me right back! I love when you open an anthology and you wonder what kind of weird shit directions you're going to go in--Into the Unknown did not disappoint.
A collection of eleven tales, eleven styles and flavors and focuses. Deep space gone wrong, AI gone rogue, inter-galactical political intrigue, Indiana Jones meets space? Getting married when your betrothed lives a six month space journey away. The search for life off and outside our planet and the wonder (fear and sometimes chaos--a few times, horror) that happens when we finally touch it.
In the end, was it worth it? Did you find the answers you were looking for? (From the last story, 'Always Become'---which had a cool riff on cancerfication (!!) ((And was also one of my favorites). Hopping from galaxy to galaxy, atmosphere to atmosphere ((and a few stories, though this may not be the case for other readers, genuinely freaked me out!))--if you're a sci-fi fan, then I recommend you pick it up!
August 29, 2022
I was given an Advance Reader Copy of Into The Unknown and here is my honest review.
"Into the unknown" is an amazing collaboration of authors all over the world. The mix in different backgrounds gives the short stories a wide variety of subjects, angles and twists. My first thoughts are regarding the presentness of these stories of the future. A global network around a beloved topic: sci-fi.
Several stories takes on the subjects of what makes a home and who we regard as friends. There are dark ones as well as more light hearted, humorous that references the classic adventure genre set in a steam punk world. All with a clear joy for story telling.
I'm not gonna rate them all individually, there are too many, and I couldn't give them straight A's. But I will say there are enough golden nuggets in this rich collection that warrant a read of the whole lot. Very exciting to see where they go from here.
"Into the unknown" is an amazing collaboration of authors all over the world. The mix in different backgrounds gives the short stories a wide variety of subjects, angles and twists. My first thoughts are regarding the presentness of these stories of the future. A global network around a beloved topic: sci-fi.
Several stories takes on the subjects of what makes a home and who we regard as friends. There are dark ones as well as more light hearted, humorous that references the classic adventure genre set in a steam punk world. All with a clear joy for story telling.
I'm not gonna rate them all individually, there are too many, and I couldn't give them straight A's. But I will say there are enough golden nuggets in this rich collection that warrant a read of the whole lot. Very exciting to see where they go from here.
June 6, 2023
Into the Unknown: A Science Fiction Anthology
Sci-Fi
Various Authors
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I'm trying read more anthologies and this was a great one.
I really liked the different writing styles of each of the authors and I'll definitely be looking at their other works.
My favourite stories were Always Become by Jason Clor and Deliverance by T. E. LaMonte, I wish they were longer.
I liked how the stories included themes of hope and change as well as suspense and action. I think there's something for everyone in this anthology.
Also, all proceeds from the sale of this anthology go to The World Literacy Foundation, which I think is great!
I would recommend looking at the trigger warnings for each story.
Sci-Fi
Various Authors
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I'm trying read more anthologies and this was a great one.
I really liked the different writing styles of each of the authors and I'll definitely be looking at their other works.
My favourite stories were Always Become by Jason Clor and Deliverance by T. E. LaMonte, I wish they were longer.
I liked how the stories included themes of hope and change as well as suspense and action. I think there's something for everyone in this anthology.
Also, all proceeds from the sale of this anthology go to The World Literacy Foundation, which I think is great!
I would recommend looking at the trigger warnings for each story.
February 7, 2023
This science fiction anthology satisfies. The best stories balance intriguing speculative concepts with character growth and human feeling. The piece I like best is “The Baron of the Moon” by Briana Bedore, grotesque space horror with a human heart and, especially for such a brief piece, meticulous worldbuilding. Other standouts include the Octavia Butler-esque “Always Become”, the human drama of “Extramural”, the elliptical and evocative “Marbles”, the wry “The Pet”, and the fun sci-fi action of “Alinda”. All this for a few bucks, and the proceeds benefit the World Literacy Foundation, so you can get your sci-fi fix and do your bit for literacy at the same time.
August 21, 2022
Love all the different takes on the topic and settings. The similarities of the theme aswell as the individuality from the writers. Couldn't find myself stop reading to find out what the next stop of the journey was going to be. Some still in my thoughts, the story itself, as of what will happen next and from other characters perspective.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 4, 2022
Huh. Been awhile since I read a short story collection. And especially a recently published one. This one I read because a friend has a story published here. I can't say that the collection as a whole was for me. None of the stories really grabbed me. And way too many of them had horror elements. And I'm not a fair judge of my friend's story, I enjoy his voice too much to be partial.
August 20, 2022
As a fan of science fiction, I enjoyed the underlying themes presented in the stories. While some were heavier than others, there is a good mix of the two, keeping the reader entertained throughout. Good writing makes or breaks any story, and this anthology has been made. Give it a read, it's great!.
July 9, 2023
The stories in this anthology are OK. Not great; not horrible. Just OK. They don't seem to have any common theme or idea. Just a group of stories that all got published together.
Read it on KU or if you can otherwise read it for free. Otherwise, don't risk spending money.
Read it on KU or if you can otherwise read it for free. Otherwise, don't risk spending money.
July 11, 2023
The writing was good for most of the stories. Unfortunately, some of them seem to have exactly the same theme as the previous one. In some ways it was like reading almost the same story over again with a different ending.
October 24, 2022
A collection of 11 stories involving space travel
October 5, 2024
Really awful stuff. Stories read like bad high school creative writing class. I found myself cringing on every page. Read it if you want a laugh.
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