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Warriors #2
Warriors 2
From George R. R. Martin's Introduction to
"People have been telling stories about warriors for as long as they have been telling stories. Since Homer first sang the wrath of Achilles and the ancient Sumerians set down their tales of Gilgamesh, warriors, soldiers, and fighters have fascinated us; they are a part of every culture, every literary tradition, every genre. All Quiet on the Western Front, From Here to Eternity, and The Red Badge of Courage have become part of our literary canon, taught in classrooms all around the country and the world. Our contributors make up an all-star lineup of award-winning and bestselling writers, representing a dozen different publishers and as many genres. We asked each of them for the same thing―a story about a warrior. Some chose to write in the genre they're best known for. Some decided to try something different. You will find warriors of every shape, size, and color in these pages, warriors from every epoch of human history, from yesterday and today and tomorrow, and from worlds that never were. Some of the stories will make you sad, some will make you laugh, and many will keep you on the edge of your seat." The stories in the second mass market volume of this book Introduction : Stories of the Spinner Rack, by George R. R. Martin Seven Years from Home, by Naomi Novik Dirae, by Peter S. Beagle Ancient Ways, by S. M. Stirling The Scroll, by David Ball Recidivist, by Gardner Dozois Ninieslando, by Howard Waldrop Out of the Dark, by David Weber Many of these writers are bestsellers. All of them are storytellers of the highest quality. Together they make a volume of unforgettable reading.
"People have been telling stories about warriors for as long as they have been telling stories. Since Homer first sang the wrath of Achilles and the ancient Sumerians set down their tales of Gilgamesh, warriors, soldiers, and fighters have fascinated us; they are a part of every culture, every literary tradition, every genre. All Quiet on the Western Front, From Here to Eternity, and The Red Badge of Courage have become part of our literary canon, taught in classrooms all around the country and the world. Our contributors make up an all-star lineup of award-winning and bestselling writers, representing a dozen different publishers and as many genres. We asked each of them for the same thing―a story about a warrior. Some chose to write in the genre they're best known for. Some decided to try something different. You will find warriors of every shape, size, and color in these pages, warriors from every epoch of human history, from yesterday and today and tomorrow, and from worlds that never were. Some of the stories will make you sad, some will make you laugh, and many will keep you on the edge of your seat." The stories in the second mass market volume of this book Introduction : Stories of the Spinner Rack, by George R. R. Martin Seven Years from Home, by Naomi Novik Dirae, by Peter S. Beagle Ancient Ways, by S. M. Stirling The Scroll, by David Ball Recidivist, by Gardner Dozois Ninieslando, by Howard Waldrop Out of the Dark, by David Weber Many of these writers are bestsellers. All of them are storytellers of the highest quality. Together they make a volume of unforgettable reading.
363 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2010
About the author
George R.R. Martin
1,511 books121k followersGeorge Raymond Richard "R.R." Martin was born September 20, 1948, in Bayonne, New Jersey. His father was Raymond Collins Martin, a longshoreman, and his mother was Margaret Brady Martin. He has two sisters, Darleen Martin Lapinski and Janet Martin Patten.
Martin attended Mary Jane Donohoe School and Marist High School. He began writing very young, selling monster stories to other neighborhood children for pennies, dramatic readings included. Later he became a comic book fan and collector in high school, and began to write fiction for comic fanzines (amateur fan magazines). Martin's first professional sale was made in 1970 at age 21: The Hero, sold to Galaxy, published in February, 1971 issue. Other sales followed.
In 1970 Martin received a B.S. in Journalism from Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, graduating summa cum laude. He went on to complete a M.S. in Journalism in 1971, also from Northwestern.
As a conscientious objector, Martin did alternative service 1972-1974 with VISTA, attached to Cook County Legal Assistance Foundation. He also directed chess tournaments for the Continental Chess Association from 1973-1976, and was a Journalism instructor at Clarke College, Dubuque, Iowa, from 1976-1978. He wrote part-time throughout the 1970s while working as a VISTA Volunteer, chess director, and teacher.
In 1975 he married Gale Burnick. They divorced in 1979, with no children. Martin became a full-time writer in 1979. He was writer-in-residence at Clarke College from 1978-79.
Moving on to Hollywood, Martin signed on as a story editor for Twilight Zone at CBS Television in 1986. In 1987 Martin became an Executive Story Consultant for Beauty and the Beast at CBS. In 1988 he became a Producer for Beauty and the Beast, then in 1989 moved up to Co-Supervising Producer. He was Executive Producer for Doorways, a pilot which he wrote for Columbia Pictures Television, which was filmed during 1992-93.
Martin's present home is Santa Fe, New Mexico. He is a member of Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America (he was South-Central Regional Director 1977-1979, and Vice President 1996-1998), and of Writers' Guild of America, West.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/george...
Martin attended Mary Jane Donohoe School and Marist High School. He began writing very young, selling monster stories to other neighborhood children for pennies, dramatic readings included. Later he became a comic book fan and collector in high school, and began to write fiction for comic fanzines (amateur fan magazines). Martin's first professional sale was made in 1970 at age 21: The Hero, sold to Galaxy, published in February, 1971 issue. Other sales followed.
In 1970 Martin received a B.S. in Journalism from Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois, graduating summa cum laude. He went on to complete a M.S. in Journalism in 1971, also from Northwestern.
As a conscientious objector, Martin did alternative service 1972-1974 with VISTA, attached to Cook County Legal Assistance Foundation. He also directed chess tournaments for the Continental Chess Association from 1973-1976, and was a Journalism instructor at Clarke College, Dubuque, Iowa, from 1976-1978. He wrote part-time throughout the 1970s while working as a VISTA Volunteer, chess director, and teacher.
In 1975 he married Gale Burnick. They divorced in 1979, with no children. Martin became a full-time writer in 1979. He was writer-in-residence at Clarke College from 1978-79.
Moving on to Hollywood, Martin signed on as a story editor for Twilight Zone at CBS Television in 1986. In 1987 Martin became an Executive Story Consultant for Beauty and the Beast at CBS. In 1988 he became a Producer for Beauty and the Beast, then in 1989 moved up to Co-Supervising Producer. He was Executive Producer for Doorways, a pilot which he wrote for Columbia Pictures Television, which was filmed during 1992-93.
Martin's present home is Santa Fe, New Mexico. He is a member of Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America (he was South-Central Regional Director 1977-1979, and Vice President 1996-1998), and of Writers' Guild of America, West.
http://us.macmillan.com/author/george...
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 23, 2020
Warriors 2 is seven tales of warriors from various genre's of fiction. These stories range from Science Fiction to Historical Fiction, to Fantasy. They include:
Seven Years from Home, by Naomi Novik. The tale of a new planet's mysteries.
Dirae, by Peter S. Beagle. A tale of revenge and memory.
Ancient Ways, by S. M. Stirling. A story set in Mr. Stirling's Emberverse.
The Scroll, by David Ball. A story of tests and torture.
Recidivist, by Gardner Dozois. A story of survival, A.I.s and the end of all things.
Ninieslando, by Howard Waldrop. A story of a very different WWI.
Out of the Dark, by David Weber. A novella of alien invasion with a surprise twist. I will admit I didn't read this novella because I had previously read a full length novel version of Out Of The Dark. This tale has two types of reviews. People either really like it or really dislike it. I fall into the first group. I personally think it is the best stand alone novel ever written by David Weber of whom I am a huge fan.
This book as with Warriors 1 is a good read.
Seven Years from Home, by Naomi Novik. The tale of a new planet's mysteries.
Dirae, by Peter S. Beagle. A tale of revenge and memory.
Ancient Ways, by S. M. Stirling. A story set in Mr. Stirling's Emberverse.
The Scroll, by David Ball. A story of tests and torture.
Recidivist, by Gardner Dozois. A story of survival, A.I.s and the end of all things.
Ninieslando, by Howard Waldrop. A story of a very different WWI.
Out of the Dark, by David Weber. A novella of alien invasion with a surprise twist. I will admit I didn't read this novella because I had previously read a full length novel version of Out Of The Dark. This tale has two types of reviews. People either really like it or really dislike it. I fall into the first group. I personally think it is the best stand alone novel ever written by David Weber of whom I am a huge fan.
This book as with Warriors 1 is a good read.
Read
August 3, 2016I received this book as an ARC/promotional copy through the First Reads program.
~~~
“Seven Years from Home” by Naomi Novik
Genre: Ecological-Conscious Planetary Romance SF & Biopunk SF
Ruth Patrona is sent on a "diplomatic" mission to stir the spirits among the Melidans and instigate them to war against the Esperigans. Her boss, Ambassador Kostas, and she were ordered to maintain a balance of power between the two combatants, until the two parties waste away their strength in a worthless war. The rulers of the world believe that at the end of a long war, when the two civilizations are drained of resources and energy, they will surely understand the benefits of a galactic union. Riiight.
Naomi Novik creates in the Melidans one of the strangest and most unique civilizations that I have encountered in a long time. I don't want to spoil your pleasure of discovery, hence I won't get into details. Spectacular ending down the lines "don't presume that just because we didn't attack, it means that we can't fight."
“Dirae” by Peter S. Beagle
Genre: Low Fantasy/ Urban Fantasy
While the main character can't remember anything about herself, if you expected another regular amnesia-story, you'd be mistaken. She simply "wakes up" whenever an act of violence is committed and blacks out after she helps the victims. She can't recall how she arrived there or where she lives when she doesn't save the day. The Police regards her as a vigilante and has orders to arrest her. Then one day she "wakes up" next to a woman who's been in coma for some time now and things become even murkier.
The story is confusing in the beginning, although for a good reason—the main character is in a dazed state, hence the reader must share the same experience. Peter S. Beagle concludes the plot with an emotional bang and a twist I didn't foresee. The writing benefits from an original storytelling technique when describing the main character's first experiences. Overall, an excellent read.
“Ancient Ways” by S. M. Stirling
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic SF
In a post-apocalyptic Russia, the society has returned to its Middle Ages organization, where the Tartars are ruthless and lawless. No explanation is given for the decline of the modern civilisation, except that two generations ago, during Sergey's grandfather's life, the machines stopped working.
When Sergey runs into young Dorzha, he first considers killing him for his horses. However Sergey changes his mind, when he learns that the Tartars are following this stranger—chances are that even if he kills the other now, the Tartars will still their chase. So instead, he promises Dorzha to help him find a kidnapped princess, whose bodyguard the young man used to be.
This story benefits from a good dose of Russian elements, which make the world believable. One of the secondary characters is very strong headed and amusing in her ways, providing an unexpected source of humor.
“The Scroll” by David Ball
Genre: Alternate History SF
After being taken slave, Baptiste, a French engineer for Louis XIV is trapped in a heartwrenching game. Moulay Ismaïl, Alouite sultan of Morocco is, for lack of a better word, a sadistic bastard, whose only joy is torturing people—either physically or emotionally. Because he seems to be also a genius, or at least an amazing judge of character, he is extremely skilled in hurting others. When Moulay Ismaïl notices Baptiste, he makes his daily purpose to break the Frenchman.
This is one of the saddest stories I read in a long time. David Balldevelops Baptiste's torment very smartly, showing a good grasp of psychology.
“Recidivist” by Gardner Dozois
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic SF
The world has become the playground of a group of AIs, who behave like a wayward children.
The premise of this story is excellent and the world envisioned great. However I felt that this story needed a stronger ending, a twist.
“Ninieslando” by Howard Waldrop
Genre: Alternate History SF
While fighting on the British side during World War I, Tommy's job is to guard a sector of No-Man’s Land. During a strange incident, he is injured and left behind in the disputed zone. However the ones who rescue him are neither his side nor the Germans, but a handful of people building a better world under No-Man’s Land.
The me, the true skill in writing a short story comes from the ending... or the "punch line," if you want, or the twist, as James Patterson once said in Castle. If the story has also a subtext then you have a real gem. This story has them all. The first part of the story reads like historical fiction—and while WWI isn't one of my favorite topics, I couldn't put the story down, so well it was presented. The second part—the true SF section—was interesting and original. Yet, what took this story from good to great was its subtextual ending. This was probably my favorite story from the collection.
“Out of the Dark” by David Weber
Genre: Military SF with a touch of low fantasy
First of all, this is not a short story or even a novelette, but a fully fledged novella, so expect a more involved plot and character development.
A ship full of Shongairi, one of the most aggressive civilizations in the Universe, returns to Earth after four hundred years. Yet instead of the Level Three civilization they expected (one sub-developed, which the Imperial laws allow to be assimilated), they discovered that humans reached Level Two (which makes them untouchable). Unfortunately for humans, Shongairi regard the laws more as guidelines and attack ensues. The story follows several groups of humans in their fight against the invading forces.
This is a heavily military story, which includes lots technical details and descriptions of skirmishes. The ending is not what you would expect from the military SF genre, though David Weber did a good job at integrating the fantastic element.
~~~
This review was also posted at http://www.andreeadaia.com/blog/?p=159.
~~~
“Seven Years from Home” by Naomi Novik
Genre: Ecological-Conscious Planetary Romance SF & Biopunk SF
Ruth Patrona is sent on a "diplomatic" mission to stir the spirits among the Melidans and instigate them to war against the Esperigans. Her boss, Ambassador Kostas, and she were ordered to maintain a balance of power between the two combatants, until the two parties waste away their strength in a worthless war. The rulers of the world believe that at the end of a long war, when the two civilizations are drained of resources and energy, they will surely understand the benefits of a galactic union. Riiight.
Naomi Novik creates in the Melidans one of the strangest and most unique civilizations that I have encountered in a long time. I don't want to spoil your pleasure of discovery, hence I won't get into details. Spectacular ending down the lines "don't presume that just because we didn't attack, it means that we can't fight."
“Dirae” by Peter S. Beagle
Genre: Low Fantasy/ Urban Fantasy
While the main character can't remember anything about herself, if you expected another regular amnesia-story, you'd be mistaken. She simply "wakes up" whenever an act of violence is committed and blacks out after she helps the victims. She can't recall how she arrived there or where she lives when she doesn't save the day. The Police regards her as a vigilante and has orders to arrest her. Then one day she "wakes up" next to a woman who's been in coma for some time now and things become even murkier.
The story is confusing in the beginning, although for a good reason—the main character is in a dazed state, hence the reader must share the same experience. Peter S. Beagle concludes the plot with an emotional bang and a twist I didn't foresee. The writing benefits from an original storytelling technique when describing the main character's first experiences. Overall, an excellent read.
“Ancient Ways” by S. M. Stirling
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic SF
In a post-apocalyptic Russia, the society has returned to its Middle Ages organization, where the Tartars are ruthless and lawless. No explanation is given for the decline of the modern civilisation, except that two generations ago, during Sergey's grandfather's life, the machines stopped working.
When Sergey runs into young Dorzha, he first considers killing him for his horses. However Sergey changes his mind, when he learns that the Tartars are following this stranger—chances are that even if he kills the other now, the Tartars will still their chase. So instead, he promises Dorzha to help him find a kidnapped princess, whose bodyguard the young man used to be.
This story benefits from a good dose of Russian elements, which make the world believable. One of the secondary characters is very strong headed and amusing in her ways, providing an unexpected source of humor.
“The Scroll” by David Ball
Genre: Alternate History SF
After being taken slave, Baptiste, a French engineer for Louis XIV is trapped in a heartwrenching game. Moulay Ismaïl, Alouite sultan of Morocco is, for lack of a better word, a sadistic bastard, whose only joy is torturing people—either physically or emotionally. Because he seems to be also a genius, or at least an amazing judge of character, he is extremely skilled in hurting others. When Moulay Ismaïl notices Baptiste, he makes his daily purpose to break the Frenchman.
This is one of the saddest stories I read in a long time. David Balldevelops Baptiste's torment very smartly, showing a good grasp of psychology.
“Recidivist” by Gardner Dozois
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic SF
The world has become the playground of a group of AIs, who behave like a wayward children.
The premise of this story is excellent and the world envisioned great. However I felt that this story needed a stronger ending, a twist.
“Ninieslando” by Howard Waldrop
Genre: Alternate History SF
While fighting on the British side during World War I, Tommy's job is to guard a sector of No-Man’s Land. During a strange incident, he is injured and left behind in the disputed zone. However the ones who rescue him are neither his side nor the Germans, but a handful of people building a better world under No-Man’s Land.
The me, the true skill in writing a short story comes from the ending... or the "punch line," if you want, or the twist, as James Patterson once said in Castle. If the story has also a subtext then you have a real gem. This story has them all. The first part of the story reads like historical fiction—and while WWI isn't one of my favorite topics, I couldn't put the story down, so well it was presented. The second part—the true SF section—was interesting and original. Yet, what took this story from good to great was its subtextual ending. This was probably my favorite story from the collection.
“Out of the Dark” by David Weber
Genre: Military SF with a touch of low fantasy
First of all, this is not a short story or even a novelette, but a fully fledged novella, so expect a more involved plot and character development.
A ship full of Shongairi, one of the most aggressive civilizations in the Universe, returns to Earth after four hundred years. Yet instead of the Level Three civilization they expected (one sub-developed, which the Imperial laws allow to be assimilated), they discovered that humans reached Level Two (which makes them untouchable). Unfortunately for humans, Shongairi regard the laws more as guidelines and attack ensues. The story follows several groups of humans in their fight against the invading forces.
This is a heavily military story, which includes lots technical details and descriptions of skirmishes. The ending is not what you would expect from the military SF genre, though David Weber did a good job at integrating the fantastic element.
~~~
This review was also posted at http://www.andreeadaia.com/blog/?p=159.
June 9, 2016
A collection of stories about warriors, mostly but not solely sff. One story was fantastic--the rest ranged from mediocre to outright awful.
"Seven Years from Home" by Naomi Novik. An academic goes to a far off planet that is right on the tipping point of a civil war between colonists who transform themselves to adapt to the planet, and colonists who want to terraform the planet to match themselves. I love the technology used here (bio-transformations are my favorite sf trope, but are so rarely used), but the real brilliance of this story is in the way it twisted and turned as I read it. Not that the narrator is unreliable or even hiding things, but that they're telling a story where they assume we know their background and context, and not knowing those things means I had to constantly readjust my interpretation of the plot and the narrator's motives. I found this story fascinating and would definitely read it again.
"Dirae" by Peter S Beagle. A specter fights crime and injustice in their city, but wonders where it came from and what motivates it. Super dark.
"Ancient Ways" by SM Stirling. In the future, a Cossak and a Kalmyk ally themselves. This took so long to get going, and I didn't care about the characters or world at all, so I didn't finish this.
"The Scroll" by David Ball. In 17th century Morocco, an engineer is tortured for 42 pages and then dies. Unpleasant but also boring.
"Recidivist" by Gardner Davois. After they gain consciousness, AIs turn on humans and play with them (and the very make up of the Earth) for their amusement. One old man tries to stop them. The ever-changing Earth was cool, but the main character had so little personality that I didn't care whether he succeeded at stopping the AIs or not. (And of course, like so many stories in this collection .
"Ninieslando" by Howard Waldrop. In the midst of WWI, soldiers create a mini oasis of peace where they speak Esperanto. Of course they cannot escape the trenches forever.
"Out of the Dark" by David Weber. Evil aliens try to conquer the Earth but are shocked, shocked I tell you to discover how adaptable and amazing humanity is. The end reveal that
"Seven Years from Home" by Naomi Novik. An academic goes to a far off planet that is right on the tipping point of a civil war between colonists who transform themselves to adapt to the planet, and colonists who want to terraform the planet to match themselves. I love the technology used here (bio-transformations are my favorite sf trope, but are so rarely used), but the real brilliance of this story is in the way it twisted and turned as I read it. Not that the narrator is unreliable or even hiding things, but that they're telling a story where they assume we know their background and context, and not knowing those things means I had to constantly readjust my interpretation of the plot and the narrator's motives. I found this story fascinating and would definitely read it again.
"Dirae" by Peter S Beagle. A specter fights crime and injustice in their city, but wonders where it came from and what motivates it. Super dark.
"Ancient Ways" by SM Stirling. In the future, a Cossak and a Kalmyk ally themselves. This took so long to get going, and I didn't care about the characters or world at all, so I didn't finish this.
"The Scroll" by David Ball. In 17th century Morocco, an engineer is tortured for 42 pages and then dies. Unpleasant but also boring.
"Recidivist" by Gardner Davois. After they gain consciousness, AIs turn on humans and play with them (and the very make up of the Earth) for their amusement. One old man tries to stop them. The ever-changing Earth was cool, but the main character had so little personality that I didn't care whether he succeeded at stopping the AIs or not. (And of course, like so many stories in this collection .
"Ninieslando" by Howard Waldrop. In the midst of WWI, soldiers create a mini oasis of peace where they speak Esperanto. Of course they cannot escape the trenches forever.
"Out of the Dark" by David Weber. Evil aliens try to conquer the Earth but are shocked, shocked I tell you to discover how adaptable and amazing humanity is. The end reveal that
July 28, 2011
I received this book for free through GoodReads First Reads. I liked the collection as a whole. This may have been one of the first collections I've read where I liked all the stories. I wasn't familar with any of the authors except Peter S. Beagle so it was nice to branch out.
"Seven Years from Home" by Naomi Novik was about a woman who travels from a government in the galaxy that is hoping to colonize a planet. However, there are two types of people living on the planet: those who seek to use the planet in whatever way they like and those that have genetically modified themselves to adapt to their environment and keep it whole. The main character is sent to those that are genetically modified and comes to identify with the people she is with. I liked the way it was told and it had some interesting technology thrown in there.
"Dirae" by Peter S. Beagle. This one was my favorite. I loved how it was told and how the character and writing became more aware and complex as the story went on. It was a little hard to get into at first but well worth it.
"Ancient Ways" by S. M. Stirling. This story was about two people from two different cultures teaming up to rescue a princess from a third culture. I liked it and thought it was a neat story. My favorite part was when they talked about technology in the past and how it could never have happened.
"The Scroll" by David Ball. This was a good story just really sad.
"Recidivist" by Gardner Dozois. This was my least favorite. It was a little complicated and too strange for my tastes.
"Ninieslando" by Howard Waldrop. This was a cute story about soldiers in World War II trying to create a more utopian society and living under the noses of the German and French/English armies.
"Out of the Dark" by David Weber. I liked this novella. It was about an alien society trying to take over the world. War and guns don't interest me that much in stories so I skimmed over the parts describing the military terms and equipment. I figured out the secret twist pretty early which is rare for me, but I won't spoil it for anyone else. I did like what the aliens had to say about our psychology.
Overall, I think this is the best collection of stories I've read in awhile.
"Seven Years from Home" by Naomi Novik was about a woman who travels from a government in the galaxy that is hoping to colonize a planet. However, there are two types of people living on the planet: those who seek to use the planet in whatever way they like and those that have genetically modified themselves to adapt to their environment and keep it whole. The main character is sent to those that are genetically modified and comes to identify with the people she is with. I liked the way it was told and it had some interesting technology thrown in there.
"Dirae" by Peter S. Beagle. This one was my favorite. I loved how it was told and how the character and writing became more aware and complex as the story went on. It was a little hard to get into at first but well worth it.
"Ancient Ways" by S. M. Stirling. This story was about two people from two different cultures teaming up to rescue a princess from a third culture. I liked it and thought it was a neat story. My favorite part was when they talked about technology in the past and how it could never have happened.
"The Scroll" by David Ball. This was a good story just really sad.
"Recidivist" by Gardner Dozois. This was my least favorite. It was a little complicated and too strange for my tastes.
"Ninieslando" by Howard Waldrop. This was a cute story about soldiers in World War II trying to create a more utopian society and living under the noses of the German and French/English armies.
"Out of the Dark" by David Weber. I liked this novella. It was about an alien society trying to take over the world. War and guns don't interest me that much in stories so I skimmed over the parts describing the military terms and equipment. I figured out the secret twist pretty early which is rare for me, but I won't spoil it for anyone else. I did like what the aliens had to say about our psychology.
Overall, I think this is the best collection of stories I've read in awhile.
June 11, 2012
This book was very difficult for me to rate since I liked some of the stories very much and not so much others. All the stories were interesting and well written, but I didn't care much for some of the subjects.
“Seven Years from Home” by Naomi Novik - 5 stars - one of my favorite;
“Dirae” by Peter S. Beagle - 4 stars - very interesting story line and the way it was presented;
“Ancient Ways” by S. M. Stirling - 3.5 stars - this story had potential, but it could have been better (I had higher expectations of it);
“The Scroll” by David Ball - 4.5 stars - this story was really good, but very sad and it disturbed me deeply, that I had to stop reading it several times;
“Recidivist” by Gardner Dozois and “Ninieslando” by Howard Waldrop - 3 stars - my least favorite stories;
"Out of the Dark" by David Weber - 4 stars - this story was my biggest disappointment. Up to the last 10 pages this novella was my favorite, 5 stars without any doubt. And then it came the last pages (I really hopped all the time that David Weber will do better than follow the cliché) ... and the story dropped to 2 stars. In the end I decided to give it 4 stars for the most of the story was really good.
“Seven Years from Home” by Naomi Novik - 5 stars - one of my favorite;
“Dirae” by Peter S. Beagle - 4 stars - very interesting story line and the way it was presented;
“Ancient Ways” by S. M. Stirling - 3.5 stars - this story had potential, but it could have been better (I had higher expectations of it);
“The Scroll” by David Ball - 4.5 stars - this story was really good, but very sad and it disturbed me deeply, that I had to stop reading it several times;
“Recidivist” by Gardner Dozois and “Ninieslando” by Howard Waldrop - 3 stars - my least favorite stories;
"Out of the Dark" by David Weber - 4 stars - this story was my biggest disappointment. Up to the last 10 pages this novella was my favorite, 5 stars without any doubt. And then it came the last pages (I really hopped all the time that David Weber will do better than follow the cliché) ... and the story dropped to 2 stars. In the end I decided to give it 4 stars for the most of the story was really good.
April 23, 2016
These stories weren't as good as the one in the first book but there were two gems in it:
The second story - Dirae by Peter S. Beagle - blew my mind. Such an awesome, awesome, awesome story. Yes, the idea isn't something that wasn't done before but still. It's my favourite story from both books.
The second one was the novella "Out of the Dark" by David Weber. Buttons pushed! I love the main characters and I love the plot of the novella. Earth being invaded by aliens and the humans fighting back. We get the POV of various human and alien fighters and the twist in the end. HOLY COW! So did not see this coming! Yeah, the aliens are basically intelligent dogs but it's okay. The rest of the story makes it up.
The second story - Dirae by Peter S. Beagle - blew my mind. Such an awesome, awesome, awesome story. Yes, the idea isn't something that wasn't done before but still. It's my favourite story from both books.
The second one was the novella "Out of the Dark" by David Weber. Buttons pushed! I love the main characters and I love the plot of the novella. Earth being invaded by aliens and the humans fighting back. We get the POV of various human and alien fighters and the twist in the end. HOLY COW! So did not see this coming! Yeah, the aliens are basically intelligent dogs but it's okay. The rest of the story makes it up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2013
An accurate review of this book is hard to do since its several writers involved. Some of the stories I cared more for than others. But the David Weber story was a gem. Gives a whole new perspective on the planet Earth and its inhabitants. Buy the book for that story and get the others as a bonus.
August 5, 2012
very mixed collection of stories. Some are absolutely wonderfull and others are rubbish.
April 8, 2024
Aș fi dorit să citesc al doilea volum al antologiei realizate de George R. R. Martin și Gardner Dozois încă de anul trecut, dar când există un război real la câteva sute de kilometri distanță de casă nu prea mai găsești vreo satisfacție literară în povestiri unde bătăliile reprezintă tema principală…
În acest context, s-ar putea ca opiniile mele să dezavantajeze valoarea reală a textelor și îmi cer scuze față de viitorii cititori ai antologiei dacă acest lucru se va întâmpla.
“Vulturul și iepurele” de Steven Saylor
Saylor stăpânește perfect acea regulă a scriitorului care spune că nu trebuie să-ți plictisești nici măcar cu un singur rând cititorul. Așadar forma povestirii este impecabilă, în ceea ce privește fondul însă... ei bine, eu consider că în perioada războaielor punice amândouă taberele, atât cea romană cât și cea cartagineză, erau la fel de barbare. Adversarii capturați în luptă erau ori uciși ori trimiși în sclavie, astfel că soarta cea crudă a prizonierilor cartaginezi prezentați de autor nu a reușit să trezească în mine vreo fărâmă de emoție. Dacă ar fi câștigat Cartagina războiul, probabil că și peste ruinele Cetății Eterne ar fi fost împrăștiată sare, pentru ca nici măcar buruienile să nu mai poată răsări acolo.
Nota 8,3
“Groapa” de James Rollins
Lumea privită prin ochii unui câine de luptă. Povestire cu dedicație specială pentru toți idioții care aruncă în arenă animale și apoi pariază pe viața acestora.
Fără notă
“Afară din beznă” de David Weber
Ireal. Citeam și nu-mi venea să cred că așa ceva este posibil. O povestire scrisă de un scriitor american, în care noi, românii, ne batem de la egal la egal cu o civilizație extraterestră care ne-a invadat planeta. Cinste eroilor noștri care îi înfruntă pe dușmani, printre care îi putem enumera aici pe profesoara universitară Elisabeta Cantacuzino, sergentul Alexandru Ionescu, infanteriștii Mircea Basarab și Tache Brătianu, tanchistul Nicolae Băsescu sau curierul Maria Averescu. O mână de români, hotărâți să apere Alba Iulia, barajul Vidraru, pădurile carpatine, copiii, nevoile și neamul de asalturile nemiloșilor extratereștri (Weber a studiat foarte bine nu numai istoria și geografia României, ci și percepția neaoșă asupra oricărei confruntări militare ce a avut loc vreodată pe aceste meleaguri, în care noi am fost mereu doar o mână de oameni iar inamicul a venit de fiecare dată câtă frunză și iarbă).
Nota 10
“Fetele de la Avenger” de Carrie Vaughn
Un superb omagiu adus femeilor aviator ce au contribuit la victoria aliaților în al doilea război mondial.
Fără notă
“Căi străvechi” de S. M. Stirling
Autorul, fără a oferi prea multe detalii despre felul în care a regresat civilizația umană până în epoca barbară (iar acest regres reprezintă de fapt împingerea forțată a textului într-o zonă SF, lucru care nu cred că era necesar, pentru că mai sunt povestiri în această antologie care nu se încadrează în acest gen literar), ne prezintă un cocktail istoric cu cazaci, tătari, palate și prințese demne de a fi salvate. Ușor de citit și la fel de ușor de îndepărtat din minte.
Fără notă
“Ninieslando” de Howard Waldrop
Război, front și soldați, pentru a se încadra în tema propusă de antologie. Ideea lui Waldrop, aceea de a inventa o lume subterană, aflată între tranșeele combatanților, este cea care face dintr-un text oarecum mediu unul deosebit.
Nota 7,9
“Recidivistul” de Gardner Dozois
Povestire bună, chiar dacă nu iese din registrul propagandei anti divinitate ce pare a fi obsedant în aproape tot ce a scris Dozois.
Nota 7,8
“Legiune este numele meu” de David Morrell
Povestire al cărei principal argument este expresia “Ordinul se execută nu se discută”, unul dintre cele mai mari imbecilisme pe care a putut să le producă mintea umană și care a fost pe parcursul istoriei scuza perfectă pentru pierderea a sute de milioane de vieți.
Fără notă
“Apărătorii frontierei” de Robert Silverberg
Varianta science-fiction a romanului “Deșertul tătarilor” de Dino Buzzati.
Nota 9,2
“Pergamentul” de David Ball
Un scriitor extrem de talentat, care alături de Silverberg și de Martin ne oferă cele mai bune lucrări din această antologie și nu cred că este o întâmplare faptul că ultimele trei povestiri sunt și cele mai valoroase.
Fără notă
“Cavalerul misterios” - (poveste din cele Șapte regate) de George R. R. Martin
Această nuvelă face parte din seria aventurilor cavalerilor Duncan și Aegon și vă recomand să citiți „Cavalerul rătăcitor”, „Sabia jurată” și „Cavalerul misterios” în această ordine (nuvelele pot fi găsite în volumul “Cavalerul celor șapte regate” care a fost publicat și în limba română).
Nota 9,7
http://www.bucurestifm.ro/2024/04/08/...
În acest context, s-ar putea ca opiniile mele să dezavantajeze valoarea reală a textelor și îmi cer scuze față de viitorii cititori ai antologiei dacă acest lucru se va întâmpla.
“Vulturul și iepurele” de Steven Saylor
Saylor stăpânește perfect acea regulă a scriitorului care spune că nu trebuie să-ți plictisești nici măcar cu un singur rând cititorul. Așadar forma povestirii este impecabilă, în ceea ce privește fondul însă... ei bine, eu consider că în perioada războaielor punice amândouă taberele, atât cea romană cât și cea cartagineză, erau la fel de barbare. Adversarii capturați în luptă erau ori uciși ori trimiși în sclavie, astfel că soarta cea crudă a prizonierilor cartaginezi prezentați de autor nu a reușit să trezească în mine vreo fărâmă de emoție. Dacă ar fi câștigat Cartagina războiul, probabil că și peste ruinele Cetății Eterne ar fi fost împrăștiată sare, pentru ca nici măcar buruienile să nu mai poată răsări acolo.
Nota 8,3
“Groapa” de James Rollins
Lumea privită prin ochii unui câine de luptă. Povestire cu dedicație specială pentru toți idioții care aruncă în arenă animale și apoi pariază pe viața acestora.
Fără notă
“Afară din beznă” de David Weber
Ireal. Citeam și nu-mi venea să cred că așa ceva este posibil. O povestire scrisă de un scriitor american, în care noi, românii, ne batem de la egal la egal cu o civilizație extraterestră care ne-a invadat planeta. Cinste eroilor noștri care îi înfruntă pe dușmani, printre care îi putem enumera aici pe profesoara universitară Elisabeta Cantacuzino, sergentul Alexandru Ionescu, infanteriștii Mircea Basarab și Tache Brătianu, tanchistul Nicolae Băsescu sau curierul Maria Averescu. O mână de români, hotărâți să apere Alba Iulia, barajul Vidraru, pădurile carpatine, copiii, nevoile și neamul de asalturile nemiloșilor extratereștri (Weber a studiat foarte bine nu numai istoria și geografia României, ci și percepția neaoșă asupra oricărei confruntări militare ce a avut loc vreodată pe aceste meleaguri, în care noi am fost mereu doar o mână de oameni iar inamicul a venit de fiecare dată câtă frunză și iarbă).
Nota 10
“Fetele de la Avenger” de Carrie Vaughn
Un superb omagiu adus femeilor aviator ce au contribuit la victoria aliaților în al doilea război mondial.
Fără notă
“Căi străvechi” de S. M. Stirling
Autorul, fără a oferi prea multe detalii despre felul în care a regresat civilizația umană până în epoca barbară (iar acest regres reprezintă de fapt împingerea forțată a textului într-o zonă SF, lucru care nu cred că era necesar, pentru că mai sunt povestiri în această antologie care nu se încadrează în acest gen literar), ne prezintă un cocktail istoric cu cazaci, tătari, palate și prințese demne de a fi salvate. Ușor de citit și la fel de ușor de îndepărtat din minte.
Fără notă
“Ninieslando” de Howard Waldrop
Război, front și soldați, pentru a se încadra în tema propusă de antologie. Ideea lui Waldrop, aceea de a inventa o lume subterană, aflată între tranșeele combatanților, este cea care face dintr-un text oarecum mediu unul deosebit.
Nota 7,9
“Recidivistul” de Gardner Dozois
Povestire bună, chiar dacă nu iese din registrul propagandei anti divinitate ce pare a fi obsedant în aproape tot ce a scris Dozois.
Nota 7,8
“Legiune este numele meu” de David Morrell
Povestire al cărei principal argument este expresia “Ordinul se execută nu se discută”, unul dintre cele mai mari imbecilisme pe care a putut să le producă mintea umană și care a fost pe parcursul istoriei scuza perfectă pentru pierderea a sute de milioane de vieți.
Fără notă
“Apărătorii frontierei” de Robert Silverberg
Varianta science-fiction a romanului “Deșertul tătarilor” de Dino Buzzati.
Nota 9,2
“Pergamentul” de David Ball
Un scriitor extrem de talentat, care alături de Silverberg și de Martin ne oferă cele mai bune lucrări din această antologie și nu cred că este o întâmplare faptul că ultimele trei povestiri sunt și cele mai valoroase.
Fără notă
“Cavalerul misterios” - (poveste din cele Șapte regate) de George R. R. Martin
Această nuvelă face parte din seria aventurilor cavalerilor Duncan și Aegon și vă recomand să citiți „Cavalerul rătăcitor”, „Sabia jurată” și „Cavalerul misterios” în această ordine (nuvelele pot fi găsite în volumul “Cavalerul celor șapte regate” care a fost publicat și în limba română).
Nota 9,7
http://www.bucurestifm.ro/2024/04/08/...
July 2, 2020
Cartea este o colecție de povestiri care de care mai bună. Exceptând ”Cavalerul misterios”, pe care o citisem anterior și pe care mi-ar fi greu să o judec ca povestire de sine stătătoare, în afara universului de Gheața și Foc, cele mai bune au fost primele 5, iar cea mai buăa prima, ”Vulturul și iepurele”.
O mențiune specială merge la ”Afară din beznă”, a cărei acțiune se desfășoară în România, în timpul unui atac extraterestru și care surprinde destul de bine aspecte culturale românești. Cel mai puțin mi-a plăcut ”Ninieslando”, care mi s-a părut cam fără sens.
Povestirile fac parte din genuri diferite și au abordări diferite, singurul lucru pe care îl au în comun fiind că prezintă povestea unui război, indiferent de felul acestuia, din perspectiva unuia sau a mai multor războinici. Fiecare războinic are propriile sale îndoieli de înfruntat și decizi de luat, iar fiecare război are atât un plan fizic cât și unul psihlogic.
O mențiune specială merge la ”Afară din beznă”, a cărei acțiune se desfășoară în România, în timpul unui atac extraterestru și care surprinde destul de bine aspecte culturale românești. Cel mai puțin mi-a plăcut ”Ninieslando”, care mi s-a părut cam fără sens.
Povestirile fac parte din genuri diferite și au abordări diferite, singurul lucru pe care îl au în comun fiind că prezintă povestea unui război, indiferent de felul acestuia, din perspectiva unuia sau a mai multor războinici. Fiecare războinic are propriile sale îndoieli de înfruntat și decizi de luat, iar fiecare război are atât un plan fizic cât și unul psihlogic.
September 17, 2020
Seven stories about warriors edited by George R.R. Martin and Gardner Dozois. They are all science fiction and/or fantasy.
Here are my ratings:
1. Seven Years from Home by Naomi Novik-- 5 stars I thought this was an excellent science fiction story and, for me, the best in the bunch. Two groups of colonists contend with each other for control of a planet and Ruth, as a diplomat from the "Confederacy," finds herself siding with one group against the other.
2. Dirae by Peter S. Beagle--4 stars an urban fantasy with a female vigilante who is also a specter. I like the way Beagle wrote this and I really liked the ending.
3. Ancient Ways by S.M. Stirling-- 4 stars The main reason I read this book was to read the Stirling story set in his "Emberverse." The story is set in the Ukraine which has reverted back to a medieval level and our hero is a Cossack. OK story which gets the 4 stars because it's Stirling.
4. The Scroll by David Ball--3 stars If you like page after page of torture and torment...a disturbing story which I didn't much care for. But it was set in a most interesting location--Morocco.
5. Recidivist by Gardner Dozois--3 stars The AIs have taken over the world but one man will not stop fighting them. Again, an OK story.
6. Ninieslando by Howard Waldrop--5 stars The second best... Waldrop writes some quirky stories, which I like. This alternate history of World War I pushed some of my buttons, in a good way..
7. Out of the Dark by David Weber--3 stars Overall good military SF by Weber and I am sure that for many who read this book this novella was the best story in the book. I think the ridiculous ending ruined it for me! But I won't give it only 2 stars...
Overall, this collection rates 4 stars! Especially because of Novik's and Waldrop's stories.
Here are my ratings:
1. Seven Years from Home by Naomi Novik-- 5 stars I thought this was an excellent science fiction story and, for me, the best in the bunch. Two groups of colonists contend with each other for control of a planet and Ruth, as a diplomat from the "Confederacy," finds herself siding with one group against the other.
2. Dirae by Peter S. Beagle--4 stars an urban fantasy with a female vigilante who is also a specter. I like the way Beagle wrote this and I really liked the ending.
3. Ancient Ways by S.M. Stirling-- 4 stars The main reason I read this book was to read the Stirling story set in his "Emberverse." The story is set in the Ukraine which has reverted back to a medieval level and our hero is a Cossack. OK story which gets the 4 stars because it's Stirling.
4. The Scroll by David Ball--3 stars If you like page after page of torture and torment...a disturbing story which I didn't much care for. But it was set in a most interesting location--Morocco.
5. Recidivist by Gardner Dozois--3 stars The AIs have taken over the world but one man will not stop fighting them. Again, an OK story.
6. Ninieslando by Howard Waldrop--5 stars The second best... Waldrop writes some quirky stories, which I like. This alternate history of World War I pushed some of my buttons, in a good way..
7. Out of the Dark by David Weber--3 stars Overall good military SF by Weber and I am sure that for many who read this book this novella was the best story in the book. I think the ridiculous ending ruined it for me! But I won't give it only 2 stars...
Overall, this collection rates 4 stars! Especially because of Novik's and Waldrop's stories.
August 15, 2011
All these stories were already in the first Warriors book. The never published before comment is a load of crap. Thankfully it was just a library book and not something I wasted money on. I never saw any indication these were reprinted from the first volume.
September 15, 2011
Good short stories, not a strong as the first vol but still enjoyable. Stirling's novella on Russia was the best. Skip the Weber entry as it is available in an expanded version as a stand alone novel.
January 27, 2012
Pretty good but the first one was better. I guess they can't all be winners.
December 2, 2012
a great collection of stories collected by a number of great authors, inspired me to read more in the area of fantasy and science fiction
June 22, 2014
wierd stories, confusing most of the time
October 29, 2014
Great sequel to dunk and egg saga.
June 8, 2020
Primele trei povestiri sunt puternice (Vulturul si iepurele, Groapa, Afara din bezna), celelalte sunt doar interesante.
November 9, 2017
A great collection of stories. The collection deserves 5 Stars for the final story, Out of the Dark, alone.
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