Sunset at SkyTyme and Other Unexpected Tales by Brad Ashmore
When I picked up Sunset at SkyTyme and Other Unexpected Tales, a collection of two novelettes and four short stories, I was looking for a stand alone science fiction book that would be a fun and easy read. I was thrilled to find this anthology by Brad Ashmore. Weighing in at 118 pages, this is an enjoyable read for both new or established readers of the sci-fi genre. It was published in 2019 by Unexpected Books.
I really enjoyed these stories. There are diverse settings involved, which was a great surprise. Ashmore takes us to space yet allows us to see what the future of Earth holds, as well. He braids the different locations throughout the collection to keep it fresh and exciting.
You start out underwater in “Kraken Encounter.” As the name suggests, this story is a suspenseful creature feature that will keep you turning the pages.
In “Take the Plunge,” Ashmore lets us see how the advancement and reliance upon technology could affect future generations. He uses humor to drive the story and make the reader reflect on how close this reality could actually be.
“The Heart of the Ice” takes you on an excursion in the everyday life of ice farmers. Just when you think it’s going to be a slog for the main character, the tables turn and the story becomes a thrilling adventure.
One of the most intriguing stories was “Alpha and Omega.” This tale is propelled by the intense emotions and feelings of a manipulative young man who learns that perhaps he can’t control everything. Or everyone.
“Sunset at SkyTyme” takes you on a journey with a man suffering from burnout. He loses his job in the rat race but is introduced to a unique opportunity that could change his life. Can this strange yet intriguing choice help him escape the monotony?
The story where I felt the characters were the most developed is “Venusian Paradise.” This futuristic tale feels pertinent in today’s world, focusing on how people manipulate and treat each other depending on their perceived station in life.
It’s not easy to create new worlds or settings in short spaces, but I thought Ashmore did a nice job of it. As a reader, I definitely got what I came for - an experience that took me to new worlds, entertained me, and made me think a little after I finished reading the book. Mission accomplished.
