Some of today's top science fiction writers explore the futures that might have been, including original stories from Julie E. Czerneda and other great names in the genre.
Having written 25 novels (and counting) published by DAW Books, as well as numerous short stories, and editing several anthologies, in 2022, Julie E. Czerneda was inducted in the Canadian Science Fiction and Fantasy Hall of Fame. Her science fiction and fantasy combines her training and love of biology with a boundless curiosity and optimism, winning multiple awards. Julie's recent releases include the standalone novel To Each This World, her first collection Imaginings, and A Shift of Time, part of her Night's Edge fantasy series. For more visit czerneda.com Julie is represented by Sara Megibow of Megibow Literary Agency LLC.
Some stories better than others (of course), but really liked the premise that the divergence was from scientific reasons, instead of the more usual military battle/political figure ones.
There is nothing really ground breaking in this anthology but it is a good basic starter for anyone who is interested in alternate history science fiction stories.
A gathering of short stories all based on the premise of slightly altered history. The concepts for all of these stories were each very interesting. What if the “printing press” had been invented by the ancient Sumerians? What if the causes of Black Plague had been figured out before it was introduced to Europe. And many others. As with all compilations some suited my tastes better than did others. I find that some are way too formally written for me. I felt they lacked humor and emotion that I enjoy. However there were some that even in their short delivery showed me characters and fluid reading. It was worth the read in any case.
Some of today's top science fiction writers explore the futures that might have been, including original stories from Julie E. Czerneda and other great names in the genre.
I was looking for more by Charles Stross, and though this collection of short stories by many authors would be fun. I was very disappointed, though I did enjoy the Charles Stross story in the collection. On the whole, the description of each short story tended to be far superior than the stories themselves.
Pandemic possibilities are most memorable. Can horror story be more than present-day Corona virus? Bubonic Plague rat cause is found sooner, or Conan Doyle and mentor Bell infect each other with AIDS.