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Summary
| Stars | Reviews | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| 5 Stars | 25 | 66% |
| 4 Stars | 12 | 32% |
| 3 Stars | 0 | 0% |
| 2 Stars | 0 | 0% |
| 1 Star | 1 | 3% |
| 4.6 Stars | 38 Reviews | 100% |
5-Star Reviews
25) Pratibha Malav’s Review ★★★★★
By Pratibha Malav on 08 January 2024 (Amazon IN, Goodreads, and Instagram)
In Future Dreams and Nightmares, the latest offering from multi-award-winning speculative fiction author Donald Firesmith, readers are treated to a collection of 11 science fiction gems that transcend the boundaries of imagination. Each story in this captivating anthology introduces a fresh set of characters and propels readers into thrilling journeys that oscillate between the realms of dreams and nightmares.
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The book invites readers to escape the mundane and immerse themselves in a world of excitement and adventure. Firesmith’s writing style is impeccable, seamlessly blending intricate plots with vivid descriptions. Whether you’re a fan of fantasy, science fiction, or suspense, this collection promises something for every reader.
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Some of the story titles, such as “MEMORIES,” “A MIND FULL OF MEMORIES,” “A JUMP TOO FAR,” and “CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE FOURTH KIND,” serve as enticing glimpses into the diverse themes explored within the anthology. Each title hints at the depth and complexity that Firesmith injects into his storytelling.
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In Future Dreams and Nightmares, Donald Firesmith proves once again that he possesses an innate gift for storytelling. His ability to captivate and ignite the imagination is unparalleled, making this collection a must-read for enthusiasts of speculative fiction. Whether you seek a break from the ordinary or a thrilling exploration of futuristic possibilities, this book delivers a compelling and unforgettable reading experience.
24) Embark on a Journey into the Unknown with Future Dreams and Nightmares ★★★★★
By Dr. Melissa Caudle on 01 November 2023 (Dr. Mel’s Message Review)
Prepare to be spellbound as I introduce you to a literary masterpiece that transcends time and space — Future Dreams and Nightmares by the brilliant Donald Firesmith. This extraordinary collection of 14 science fiction tales will transport you into worlds of dreams and nightmares, and I am thrilled to give it a resounding five-star review!
If you crave the kind of mind-bending storytelling that made “The Twilight Zone” and “The Outer Limits” legendary, then this book is a must-read for you. Donald Firesmith’s imagination knows no bounds as he weaves intricate narratives that challenge the very fabric of reality. Each story is a portal to a different dimension, where the boundaries of science, ethics, and morality are put to the test.
Futures Dreams and Nightmares is a mesmerizing collection that showcases Donald Firesmith’s mastery of speculative fiction. With every turn of the page, you’ll find yourself immersed in a new and captivating world. Firesmith’s storytelling prowess is unparalleled, drawing you in with gripping plots, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes.
From an oligarch’s deathbed confession to a time traveler’s quest to undo humanity’s extinction, these stories will keep you on the edge of your seat, pondering the limitless possibilities of the universe. Firesmith seamlessly blends cutting-edge science with profound human dilemmas, leaving readers both awestruck and contemplative.
Are you ready to embark on a journey that will challenge your perceptions of the future? I wholeheartedly recommend Future Dreams and Nightmares to all science fiction aficionados, dreamers, and seekers of intellectual thrills. This book is a treasure trove of creativity, imagination, and intellectual stimulation.
Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the realms of the unknown. Grab your copy of Future Dreams and Nightmares by Donald Firesmith, and let your mind soar through the corridors of possibility. Dive into the depths of science fiction’s finest storytelling today!
Happy reading.
23) Brianna Schultz’s Review ★★★★★
By Jenifer Ali on 22 October 2023 (Goodreads Review)
I won this in a giveaway a few months ago.
I thought the stories were interesting and definitely gave off some Twilight Zone vibes. A couple of the stories were a little weird, but the other ones more than made up for it. I think if you like a quick read and enjoy Sci-Fi, you’ll enjoy this book.
22) Extraordinary ★★★★★
By Jenifer Ali on 21 September 2023 (Amazon IN Review and Goodreads Review)
Future Dreams and Nightmares was my recent read that showcased the ability of the author to think outside the box. With a futuristic approach,the author has penned a collection of short stories that will offer impressive stories to fall for.
The one I enjoyed the most was “Everlife.” The story is about deceit, a break of trust, and confusion that lingers around Alexis when she’s brought back the third time of resurrection.
She was trying to recall the last two years that she had been told about, but the entry of the insurance agent who had started developing feelings for her second clone reveals the reality laid hidden.
With one such extraordinary story and many more to get yourself entertained with,enjoy this amazing read for a perfect weekend getaway.
21) Great one, highly recommended ★★★★★
By Shahitiya on 15 September 2023 (Amazon IN Review and Goodreads Review)
Future Dreams and Nightmares is my second book written by author Donald Firesmith. I have been a big fan of science fiction stories since I was a kid. Over the years, as I grew older, somehow I lost my appreciation for science fiction stories, as I found most of them silly with no deeper meaning.
Author Donald Firesmith reintroduces me to science fiction stories. The stories in the book Future Dreams and Nightmares are not only about science fiction; rather, they speak to the greater good of mankind. The language is simple and can be easily understood by readers all over the world. What I especially loved was “author’s comments” after each story. My favourite stories are “We Service All” and “istory is Written.”
20) Startling ★★★★★
By Abhishek Pathak on 14 September 2023 (Amazon IN Review and Goodreads Review)
I stumbled upon this book while exploring Amazon for some science fiction books. I googled author Donald Firesmith, and I was impressed. I quickly grabbed the book and started reading.
The short stories are not only about science fiction; however, they talk about human behaviour and action consequences.
I simply loved the story “Memories.” It is my favorite from the book. In just a few words, author Donald Firesmith portrayed such complex human emotions with ease.
The other stories that I like are – “A Jump Too Far,” “Questioning God,” and “The Great Dust Storm of 2047.”
Future Dreams and Nightmares is a testament to his skill as a writer, offering readers an enthralling, multifaceted journey into the heart of speculative fiction. Each story is a carefully constructed masterpiece, a testament to Firesmith’s dedication to the genre.
19) Entangled in the wires of insensitivity, vulnerability of human minds ★★★★★
By Garv (Rethi VA) on 14 September 2023 (Amazon IN ReviewGoodreads Review)
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The cover’s visual appeal was the major convincing factor for me to pick it up. It gives off an old-school library book vibes, which is tough to find in bookstores but is a must-have in school libraries. 11/10 to the cover designer, Natasja Hellenthal, for her exceptional ability to visualize and summarize the content of the book onto the cover.
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The title aptly portrays the storyline of the book. It is basically a collection of short stories, each underlying the same theme and plotline: – dreams of the commons and their aperture towards nightmares. The author has done an excellent job carving out the middle ground between human emotions and sparking introspection for an entirely modernised future society.
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Each story begins on a completely normal note, with a human doing human activities and displaying human connections. But as the story progresses, it becomes more and more entangled in the wires of insensitivity, vulnerability of human minds, viciousness of technology, and many more human traits of wrongdoing.
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A pretty simple message that the book tries to convey could be that the overdose of technology, which has become a fad nowadays, could either be the end of human civic society or take it to levels unimaginable.
It is a risky gamble, so are you in for it?
Signing off
🌸🦋🧿
18) A journey you won’t regret ★★★★★
By Nadia on 5 September 2023 (Amazon US Review)
In these stories, whether from human or alien perspectives, there’s a captivating absence of drastic shifts in how minds work.
Firesmith’s visionary tales infuse timeless themes with renewed energy. His futuristic world-building rejuvenates these ancient longings, often leading to conclusions that may seem sudden or open-ended. Yet, that’s the essence of the unknown future – a realm of unpredictability.
This compilation offers a swift journey. I assure you, choosing this adventure is a decision you won’t regret.
17) Reedsy.com Review ★★★★★
By BooksShelf on 28 August 2023 (Reedsy.com’s Review)
Must read 🏆
Future Dreams and Nightmares by veteran author Donald Firesmith is a new collection of vastly imaginative short stories, all featuring the common thread that involves a person being in a dreamlike state or consciousness. Each offering is a little gem that reflects a future vision where humans continue to forge on: some frightening, others hopeful.
It is difficult for me to choose a favorite because of the imaginative variety in plots and characters. And, too, a reader’s mood at the moment when picking up this type of volume certainly can play a role in their opinion. However, I’ll give it a go with one that certainly took me by surprise.
“We Service All” starts out much like the beginning of a novel from one of my favorite subgenres: the space opera. The main character, Jack, is an older trader with a lot of living behind him. Having spent the previous 15 months in space, a short layover at a spaceport allows him the opportunity to get off his ship and engage in a bit of R&R and, perhaps, contact with another human. Surprisingly, Jack gets more than he bargained for, but maybe just what he needs during his sojourn. The author sets up Jack’s story simply and without unnecessary diversion from his ultimate goal for his character. I was completely taken by surprise by the direction the story took. I loved this one so much that I read it twice.
The stories are of varying lengths, and the book is a perfect choice to grab when you need an entertaining diversion but have a limited amount of time in which to indulge. I was completely engaged as I read the entire collection, one story after another, during two well-spent evenings.
I recommend FUTURE DREAMS AND NIGHTMARES to science fiction, speculative fiction, and horror readers and those looking for a great way to pass some time or spend an evening reading something new.
16) Bookshelf’s.com Review ★★★★★
By BooksShelf on 17 August 2023 (Booksshelf’s Review and Goodreads Review)
In these stories, whether from human or alien perspectives, there’s a captivating absence of drastic shifts in how minds work.
Firesmith’s visionary tales infuse timeless themes with renewed energy. His futuristic world-building rejuvenates these ancient longings, often leading to conclusions that may seem sudden or open-ended. Yet, that’s the essence of the unknown future – a realm of unpredictability.
This compilation offers a swift journey. I assure you, choosing this adventure is a decision you won’t regret.
15) Jackie Tansky’s Review ★★★★★
By Jackie Tansky on 10 July 2023 (Goodreads Review)
I’ve always loved the Twilight Zone and Outer Limits and this collection definitely didn’t disappoint. For lovers of this genre and for those that are new to this, don’t miss out.
14) Solid Sci-Fi Collection! ★★★★★
By Stan Schup on 29 June 2023 (Amazon US Review and Goodreads Review)
I noticed that my wife had a copy of this paperback on her nightstand and I just couldn’t resist borrowing it. I have always favored science fiction since as far back as I can remember (books, movies, TV series). Who can forget Rod Taylor in The Time Machine (1960)? I was glued to the television when Twilight Zone (1959-1964) or Outer Limits (1963-1965) came on and yes, I watched the original Star Trek from 1966 to 1969, so I have a long history of enjoying this type of story. Having said that, I feel qualified to say that this anthology of short stories reflects the same imagination and creativity that made those shows the classics that are still enjoyed and talked about to this day. I would be hard pressed to pick a favorite – maybe “We Service All” or “Close Encounters of the Fourth Kind” – but I found all of them to be fascinating, enjoyable, and worth reading over again. If you are a fan of the genre, you can’t go wrong with this collection of inspired stories.
13) Thanks again, Donald, another great book! ★★★★★
By Pamela S. Davis on 23 June 2023 (Amazon US Review)
I enjoyed the various themes of the stories in this book. Well written and definitely thought-provoking. I’m looking forward to your next one. Till then, be well, my friend.
12) Imaginative, complex and eerie ★★★★★
By Nadim Barsoum on 7 June 2023 (Amazon US Review and Goodreads Review)
Donald Firesmith is a capable author with an obvious love for science and an imagination that allows him to take you on a journey to examine and imagine what can come to pass. Not just this, but also live through the complexities, struggles and repercussions should certain events play out in our future as a human society that is invariably embracing science and technology. I found myself asking what progress “means” and whether it is always desirable or “good.” Although I prefer more dialog in the stories I read, I thoroughly enjoyed mentally exploring the universes that the author describes in this book.
11) Brilliant book as always ★★★★★
By Ann Daniel on 4 June 2023 (Amazon UK Review)
I was very honored to be asked by the great Mr. Donald Firesmith to proofread this for him, and since he is one of my favorite authors, it’s an honor I take very seriously, and of course, I love to do it.😀📖 This book was a great little read which was a mix of some old favorites and some new surprises. I actually love the mix of old and new stories, some may not like that and would like them to all be new, but I actually enjoy the mix. As always, the stories are very well written and so fun to read. With this book, you get several short stories filled with twists and turns, because they are short stories, you can pick it up and read a couple and put it down and come back to it another day, or if you’re like me, you can sit and read it in one go lol. I highly recommend all his books, especially the short stories, and the Hell Holes series and The Secrets of Hawthorn House, and I look forward to the next one I get to proofread. 😀📚
10) Fabulous Future! ★★★★★
By Ann Keeran on 30 May 2023 (Amazon US Review and Goodreads Review)
Amazon: It’s amazing what the future holds, especially when the dreams come from the diabolical mind of one Donald Firesmith. Check out these short stories to find out what might await us in our future. Brilliant!
Goodreads: What will the future hold? Donald Firesmith has some spectacular ideas for what might happen. Read Future Dreams and Nightmares if you dare!
9) What Dreams and Screams May Come! ★★★★★
By Margaret Bentley on 27 May 2023 (Amazon US Review and Goodreads Review)
I loved this unusual anthology. Many of them had very surprising twists. Extremely entertaining read! Love this author’s work.
I was given an ARC by the author for proofing and an honest voluntary review which this is.
8) An intriguing collection of short stories. ★★★★★
By Kanyon (K.K.’s Book(Re)Marks!) on 27 May 2023 (Amazon US Review, Goodreads Review, and BookBubs Review)
A wonderful collection of intriguing short stories! Every story was very well written and held my attention from beginning to end. I started this anthology in the morning and had it done by the afternoon. A couple of highlights: “Everlife” is my favorite story, and “A Jump Too Far” is a story that is still on my mind hours later. I would recommend this collection of stories, especially if you’re looking for something quick to read. I look forward to reading more from this author!
7) Great stories that make you think ★★★★★
By Christie Schneider on 27 May 2023 (Amazon CA Review and Goodreads Review)
Some of these short stories I LOVED, like Closer Encounters of the Fourth Kind. Some I really liked “A Mind Full of Memories.” While others, I just liked the story, like “Everlife.” Overall, I really enjoyed these short stories.
Memories- a great short story. I loved its premise, and it’s a little surprise twist.
Mind Trap- I loved this one.
A Mind Full of Memories- a very different story. I really liked it.
Everlife- this story made me really think, Would I want an Everlife??
Original Equipment- I hope that we don’t get to this stage of the world.
A Jump Too Far- is an interesting concept. But not one I really want to live through.
We Service All- an interesting story.
Closer Encounters of the Fourth Kind- when I read the first paragraph, I wasn’t sure that I wanted to read it so I skipped it. However, once I really started and got into the story, I have to say that it was actually my favorite story.
History is Written- this story really makes one think about getting all sides of history. Also makes me angry to think about book banning and book editing, if you don’t want to read a book, don’t read it, but you can’t tell other people what books they can and can’t read because you don’t like what is about.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
6) A fantastical collection of short stories! ★★★★★
By Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews on 27 May 2023 (Amazon US Review, Goodreads Review, Amy’s Bookshelf Review, and Instagram Review)
Donald Firesmith writes short stories in this anthology with Future Dreams and Nightmares. I am a huge fan of Donald Firesmith. Whatever he writes, I know, without expectation, that it’s going to be interesting and very intriguing. This book confirmed what I already knew. Some of the stories reminded me of the Twilight Zone television show (yes, I watched the reruns), but it also reminded me of something I watched recently, which was Stephen King’s collection of Nightmares and Dreamscapes. Yes, the stories are that good. I don’t know what inspires Firesmith, but I’m glad he shares his intriguing and magnificent stories with readers. I am always honored to read his work. He is one of my favorite authors (and I do have a lot of authors that are favorites), but he’s one of them who I get excited to read when he makes a review request. I read the stories twice, but my favorite of all the stories was Everlife, and I found it very interesting that you could “buy” resurrection. Each story had characters that were people, so lifelike, even if the story seemed like a nightmare or a dream. It felt real, just reading them. Who are we to say what is impossible or improbable? The author weaves a tangled web of stories and captures the reader. Future Dreams and Nightmares is a definite recommendation by Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy’s Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book to also write a review.
5) Each will blow your mind in many different ways… ★★★★★
By Nancy Allen (The Avid Reader) on 18 May 2023 (Amazon US Review, Goodreads Review, and BookBub Review)
What an interesting set of short stories Future Dreams and Nightmares has. Each one will keep you guessing and a whole lot to think about. There is plenty of suspense and mystery to keep them interesting and very intriguing. Each will blow your mind in many different ways. Each is a blast to read.
MEMORIES
Imagine walking into a clinic expecting one thing but walking out with something entirely different. Would the results be good or bad? Payback is a … Great story with a twist.
MIND TRAP
A very interesting story with several twists. The title is very fitting. Evil little man. But is he the only one?
A MIND FULL OF MEMORIES
Imagine waking up, and your life is completely different than you imagined or thought it to be. What a mind-twister this one is.
EVERLIFE
Imagine your life not being what you believe it to be. Full of mystery and suspense with many, many twists.
ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT
Imagine being able to upgrade more than your memories. Leaves you with a lot to think about.
A JUMP TOO FAR
The suspense kept me anxiously awaiting, wanting to know what exactly was too far.
WE SERVICE ALL
The title is very fitting but leaves you with a lot to think about. Wondering what lies between the pages. If you could have your heart’s desire, should you even if you know it may not be real? Would it be harmful or helpful?
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE FOURTH KIND
This one is full of twists that will keep you hanging on to every word waiting for the big climax. How far should you go to be nice to someone? How far should you go to show someone that you mean them no harm?
HISTORY IS WRITTEN
Makes you wonder if you can really and truly believe anything you have been told or taught. If any of it is real or not.
Grab a copy of Future Dreams and Nightmares today, and be prepared to have your mind blown just a little.
4) Now THIS is a book I absolutely love! ★★★★★
By George Graham on 12-28 April 2023 (Amazon US Review and Goodreads Review)
It’s not often that I read a short story collection and like it. Typically the endings leave me hanging too much. Sure, it’s a short story, so the author can’t give total closure, but I at least would like to know basically how it ends. Donald Firesmith delivers!! Not only are they all fun, suspenseful, and interesting stories, but I felt satisfied after each story. The other thing that was a pleasant surprise was that normally I can guess what the ending will be for short stories. Maybe I got one right in this collection (I pretty much say “one” to soothe my ego!). The rest had me thinking, “I didn’t see that coming!” and that’s a good thing! I’ve read multiple books by this author and searched his work out because I’m always left rewarded as a reader. I believe you will be too! Please look for his other works! You won’t be disappointed!
3) Brandon’s Review ★★★★★
By Brandon Cooper on 12 April 2023 (Goodreads Review)
** spoiler alert ** I want to put out a disclaimer that I was a beta reader of this book, and I enjoyed it thoroughly.
My favorite stories were “Memories,” which dealt with a guy trying to forget his terrible crimes against humanity and instead finding out that karma has something special in store for him. Probably the second best read for me was “Everlife”, which deals with the prospect of reincarnation into a new body and delves into a murder plot. “Everlife” is one story I feel like would have made a great book on its own. Overall, I enjoy this book, as a good short story is sometimes more enthralling than a full-fledged novel.
2) Margaret’s Review ★★★★★
By Margaret Osburn on 12 April 2023 (Goodreads Review)
I received an ARC free from the author, and this is my voluntary honest review.
Oh wow!
Fantastic writing! You are glued to your seat!
Amazing stories! So thought-provoking!
Outstanding characters!
Don’t miss it!
1) A treasure trove of sci-fi treats… ★★★★★
By Kim Schup on 11 April 2023 (Amazon US Review, Goodreads Review, and BookBub Review)
This anthology features a solid collection of visionary sci-fi short stories from the award-winning author whose fertile imagination spawned the Hell Holes series, not to mention several other popular fantasy and paranormal gems. Each flight of fiction, despite the brevity necessitated by the short story format, is carefully plotted and features a wide array of well-developed and engaging characters. I particularly enjoyed the dizzying kaleidoscope of unexpected twists offered up in this medley of mind-bending tales.
This collection offers 9 thought-provoking stories for your leisure-time perusal:
MEMORIES – If we had the power to selectively sanitize our memories, would it be our salvation or our most tempting path to damnation?
MIND TRAP – What crimes might be realized should we perfect the ability to preserve our mind perpetually?
A MIND FULL OF MEMORIES – Is medical intervention always in the best interest of the patient; just because we can do something, does that always mean we should?
EVERLIFE – While cloning might seem like the ultimate insurance policy, what happens when someone really wants you out of the way?
ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT – Can extreme medical intervention be taken too far?
A JUMP TOO FAR – If you could jump from one reality to another, could you learn to live with the consequences?
WE SERVICE ALL – How could a trip to an interstellar brothel provide the soul-soothing balm needed to mend the tormented mind of a forlorn cargo ship pilot?
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS OF THE FOURTH KIND – As humans venture to the stars and encounter other species, would it truly be wise to adopt a “When-in-Rome…” policy?
HISTORY IS WRITTEN – Do you believe any history book offers an unbiased and complete account of transpired events?
I was provided with an advance copy of this book, for which I thank the author, but I am sharing my honest and unbiased review on a completely voluntary basis.
4-Star Reviews
12) *Goodreads Giveaway ★★★★☆
Karla on 21 March 2024 (Goodreads Review)
Great stories, short but pack a lot in. Especially enjoyed the writer’s short notes after each story.
11) A compelling assortment of sci-fi shorts ★★★★☆
Wishing Shelf Book Awards on 20 October 2023 (Goodreads Review and Wishing Shelf Awards Review)
If anybody happens to be looking for a set of cleverly plotted sci-fi shorts, you can’t go too far wrong with this book from Donald Firesmith. The author seems keen from the outset to offer the reader not only futuristic and out of this world settings but also a range of often thought-provoking plots; as for the characters, there are plenty of multi-limbed,
greenish spaghetti covered monsters to keep any sci-fi/fantasy fan happy.
In many ways, the biggest strength of this book is – you never know what’s coming next. Whether it’s jumping time with a device called TOTS, first contact, or even visiting an interplanetary brothel, there’s a story here for everybody, often with a clever twist at the end. In terms of writing style, it’s also excellent, with a balanced mix of descriptive prose (important with so many exotic settings) and realistic dialogue – even when it’s in an alien language!
In terms of who is this book for, I’d recommend it to new adults and adults who enjoy being surprised. Every story has a new set of characters to get to know, and readers will love the eccentricity of it all. If ‘strange’ is your thing, this book is for you.
10) Engaging ★★★★☆
Stunning Bookworm (Harshita) on 20 September 2023 (Amazon IN Review and Goodreads Review)
Future Dreams and Nightmares by Donald Firesmith, is a collection of short stories that is both interesting and exciting. These stories are surely going to take the readers on an unforgettable journey.
The stories comprising the genre of science fiction hold some great topics. A successful medical procedure without informed consent has deadly consequences. Government-approved history lessons hide a forbidden truth. Each story introduces us to a new protagonist. These thrilling stories have the tendency to keep the reader thrilled till the end.
According to me, the book is very engaging. This is a perfect read when one doesn’t get much time to get involved in reading big novels. Although it is science fiction, it is easy to read. The narration and writing style is appropriate. I loved the title and cover of the book. Overall, it was a good read for me.
9) Twinkle Arora’s review ★★★★☆
Twinkle Arora on 19 September 2023 (Goodreads Review)
Future Dreams and Nightmares by Donald Firesmith is a collection of thrilling and adventurous short stories. Each story is unique and different from each other, which will take you to the world of alternate realities. Twists and turns in the book will keep the readers hooked till the end. The author has narrated each story very well, which has elements like fiction, science, fantasy, thrills, suspense, mystery, etc. He weaved his words like magic. The language used is simple and easy to understand. Characters are well developed and described by the author. The flow of each [story] is well-paced.
In a nutshell, it was an engaging read.
8) Loved it ★★★★☆
Soundarya Tiwari on 15 September 2023 (Amazon IN Review and Goodreads Review)
By I am not, in general, a big fan of science fiction stories. I don’t mind reading them; however, I never, as such, understood the appeal. One of my friends suggested this book, and as it was short stories, I thought, If I don’t like the first two stories, I will not continue with the book. However, I could simply put the book down until I read the last word. It is a treat for the mind. What I most like about the book is that, more than the science gibberish, the author appealed to the kind soul within us. Each story has a deeper meaning.
My favourite story among the lot is “The Unintended Consequences.” It explores the ethical dilemmas faced by a neurosurgeon whose successful operation unexpectedly violates his Hippocratic oath.
These narratives challenge readers to grapple with the complexities of medical ethics and the potential dangers of unchecked scientific advancements. You’ll come across apocalyptic visions, moral conundrums, and deep moments of contemplation as you read through these pages, and all of them are guaranteed to stick with you long after you put the book down.
7) Kept me hooked ★★★★☆
By Pooja Jena on 14 September 2023 (Amazon IN Review and Goodreads Review)
Don’t we all come across books that just draw us in, even when they’re not our go-to genre. This book had that magnetism for me. The intriguing collection of short tales Future Dreams and Nightmares by Donald Firesmith will transport you to a world filled with exotic parallel universes. Each one offers a distinct and fascinating reading experience with a variety of captivating stories.
With his captivating writing style and flawless storytelling, Firesmith excels at hooking readers with his stories. It doesn’t matter if you enjoy science fiction; this book offers something for you. Readers from all around the world could easily comprehend the language due to its simplicity. The “author’s comments after each story” were something I particularly enjoyed.
Each story introduces new characters and takes you on thrilling journeys, each better than the previous one.
6) Author Donald Firesmith reintroduces me to science fiction stories ★★★★☆
By Priyanka Mukherjee on 13 September 2023 (Amazon IN Review and Goodreads Review):
Future Dreams and Nightmares by author Donald Firesmith is a true gem for science fiction enthusiasts, offering eleven gripping tales that explore the boundless depths of imagination, leaving readers pondering the implications of each narrative long after they’ve turned the final page.
My favorite story is the very first one from the book. “Mind Trap,” begins with an oligarch’s deathbed confession, leading to a captivating exploration of justice, revenge, and the complexities of the human psyche. Firesmith deftly weaves a web of intrigue that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
This collection is a must-read for anyone who enjoys science fiction.
I simply loved this book and recommend this to all science fiction lovers.
5) Thought Provoking ★★★★☆
By Soumya (SKS) on 13 September 2023 (Amazon IN Review and Goodreads Review)
Future Dreams and Nightmares by Donald Firesmith is a captivating collection of short stories that will take you on a roller-coaster ride through a world of alternate realities. With a range of intriguing tales, each one presents a unique and unforgettable reading experience.
Firesmith’s storytelling is impeccable, and he has a knack for drawing readers into his narratives with his engaging writing style. Whether you’re a fan of fantasy, science fiction, or suspense, this book has something to offer everyone. Each story introduces new characters and takes you on thrilling journeys that will leave you hungry for more.
One standout story, “Mind Trap,” is particularly noteworthy. It delves into the intriguing concept of downloading one’s mind into a cloned or robotic body, a fascinating exploration of science fiction. The dialogue between Simon and Jacob in this tale is a highlight, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.
While the collection offers an abundance of suspense, mystery, and mind-blowing moments, there is one minor drawback: in some places, the endings of the stories are not as well-established as one might hope. However, this doesn’t detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book.
In conclusion, Future Dreams and Nightmares is a captivating and thrilling collection of short stories that will transport you to different worlds and challenge your imagination. Donald Firesmith’s storytelling prowess shines through, making this book a compelling choice for anyone seeking an escape from the ordinary and a journey into excitement and adventure. Despite some minor shortcomings, the book’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a recommended read for fans of speculative fiction and those who appreciate thought-provoking tales.
4) Joyce Asheazie’s Review ★★★★☆
By Joyce Asheazie on 1 September 2023 (Goodreads Review)
Future Dreams and Nightmares by Donald Firesmith is a captivating exploration of speculative fiction that delves into the realms of both hope and fear. With a skillful blend of vivid imagination and thought-provoking scenarios, Firesmith presents a collection of stories that transport readers to alternate realities and challenge conventional thinking. The book masterfully weaves together elements of science fiction, fantasy, and horror, offering a diverse range of narratives that keep readers engaged and intrigued. Whether it’s envisioning utopian futures or unraveling dystopian nightmares, Firesmith’s storytelling prowess shines through, making Future Dreams and Nightmares a compelling and thought-provoking read for fans of speculative fiction.
3) Read Ng’s Review ★★★★☆
By Read Ng on 7 July 2023 (Goodreads Review)
This was a GoodReads giveaway win of a Kindle ebook.
An anthology of short stories. Like all anthologies I liked some more than others. Overall the stories fit my style very well.
I did think the short paragraphs in the Afterword should have been placed just after you complete each of the stories. Maybe I read too much and thought all of the afterword comments to be just too obvious regarding how the stories themselves came about. I will add Firesmith to my list of authors to read.
Have a GoodReads.
2) Great variety ★★★★☆
By Gabriele B. Mccormick on 8 June 2023 (Amazon US Review)
This book was a very entertaining read. The stories ran the gamut of themes and emotions. Mr. Firesmith has a very creative mind. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys science fiction or simply wants a book of good and satisfying short stories.
1) Welcome to the future… ★★★★☆
By Melanie Savage on 7 June 2023 (Amazon US Review, Goodreads Review, and BookBub Review)
…and to a most enjoyable and thought-provoking collection of short stories in the speculative fiction genre. I had the privilege of reading this collection prior to publication (beta and ARC copies), and was blown away by author Donald Firesmith’s wide-ranging imagination and story-telling skills. Whether the POV is human or alien, nothing about the characters suggests a radical alteration in sentient psychology. We all dream and always will dream of immortality, vengeance, untold riches, and other coveted goals. We all desire to be free, to be loved, and to be of altruistic assistance to our fellow sapients, among other cherished ambitions. The scope and detail of Firesmith’s future vision make all this new again, and if endings are occasionally abrupt or inconclusive – well, who can say with certainty what the future actually holds? This set of mind-expanding vignettes is a quick ride on the FTL train to tomorrow, and I promise you will not regret the ride.
3-Star Reviews
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2-Star Reviews
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1-Star Reviews
1) Barbieprivilege’s Review ★☆☆☆☆
By Barbieprivilege on 4 July 2023 (Goodreads Review)
I saw this billed as sort of Twilight Zone, sort of Outer Limits and that’s just right up my alley. Started off okay! The first couple of tales are decently solid.
Sigh.
Then we get to “prostituted woman heals men with her pussy even though she’s literally an alien empath and could just heal their minds from afar” because, as you already know, men.
THEN we get to “lesbian space orgy with literal space children, but it’s okay because cultural relativity,” and unfortunately, we must now take this man’s word processing software away. Also, check his hard drive tbh.
Anyway, unfortunately, I have to suggest we ban men from writing until they can prove they will no longer make women breast boobily to and fro ://///
I won this in a Goodreads giveaway which clearly did not affect my review.