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Ruas Estranhas (2012)

by George R.R. Martin(Favorite Author)

3.71 of 5 Votes: 4

languge

English

genre

Romance

publisher

Casa da Palavra

review 1: It's actually very difficult to accord five stars to an anthology nowadays, thanks to the obligatory duds that the editor incorporates only to appease the name-heavy crowd, and the flimsy stuff brought in only to titillate American teenagers. Fortunately, the "big daddy" of science-fiction: Gardner Dozois, and the undisputed overlord of fantasy at present: George R.R. Martin, do a decidedly fine job in bringing the assorted ware onto display in this anthology. Covers of anthologies are often misleading, and this one is no exception, as it conveys an impression of the book being peopled by the 'Twilight'-y sort of people, apart from bearing the frankly dubious tag of "urban fantasy". The contents are grittier, darker, sterner and much superior to what I had been apprehendin... moreg.The contents of this book are:(*) A brilliant introduction, "The Bastard Stepchild", from George R.R. Martin, that sets the tone of this anthology, in a suitably hard-hitting manner.1. "Death by Dahlia" by Charlaine Harris: a modestly written story with all too familiar figures that appeared to have been lifted out of some (many, in fact) television series rather than any literary landscape, this one was wafer-thin stuff, resembling the shiny foil covering the real thing.2. "The Bleeding Shadow" by Joe R. Lansdale: grossly over-written, an inflated piece that began and remained a piece of character-study, rather than a tautly told Lovecraftian horror.[I know, I know. The first two stories had been rather soporific and I had almost felt like "Oh dear, here we are again...", before the storm hit!]3. "Hungry Heart" by Simon R. Green: I have been unacquainted with the work of Mr. Green, and it seems that the situation has to be rectified ASAP. Really dark, really hard-boiled, really fast.4. "Styx and Stones" by Steven Saylor: This historical mystery was better! As a matter of fact, after reading this one I simply HAD TO order more books dealing with Gordianus the Finder! This story can be a classic definition of crime & detection against a disturbing backdrop where weird menace may or may not be at play. You HAVE TO read it to appreciate the stuff!5. "Pain and Suffering" by S.M. Stirling: Not great, but a good story, which could have been told better if the author had actually kept the ending a little more open.6. "It's Still the Same Old Story" by Carrie Vaughn: A neat, old-fashioned, dark story of crime, violence, vengeance and memories. Dark, sad, painful, and very good.7. "The Lady is a Screamer" by Conn Iggulden: A good story, that lost some of its sheen as it veered from the genial con-man area into the more personal territory of retribution.8. "Hellbender" by Laurie R. King: Brilliant characterisation, tight pace, scary look at science of the future, and overall superb story-telling. This one deserves multiple-reading.9. "Shadow Thieves" by Glen Cook: WHAT A BORE! The author seriously needs to learn the lessons of hard-boiled writing first, before tarnishing the paper/screen with such drudgery that is being attempted to be passed off as urban fantasy!10. "No Mystery, No Miracle" by Melinda M. Snodgrass: Average story, great setting, drab ending.11. "The Difference Between a Puzzle and a Mystery" by M.L.N. Hanover: Awesome! We need more!12. "The Curious Affair of the Deodand" by Lisa Tuttle: The author has already given us many unforgettable stories. Now, with this story, we can only hope that she has begun a terrific series. The writing is so good that the story, especially the protagonist duo, is practically begging an repeat appearance. More please!13. "Lord John and The Plague of Zombies" by Diana Gabaldon: a novella that was equally mysterious, rich, warm, cold, erotic, terrifying, soporific and thrilling! I really need to more of her stuff before I can appraise the author.14. "Beware the Snake" by John Maddox Roberts: another historical mystery, and another solid entertainer.15. "In Red, with Pearls" by Patricia Briggs: Finally, a proper noir set in a totally weird landscape. Awesome!16. "The Adakian Eagle" by Bradley Denton: I can only say "Thank You" to the author, who had finally given the Ace Performer his due by showcasing him in a chilling story set amidst all too real space & time.Overall, except for one complete dud, and a few overwritten drabs, this anthology is a superb example of what can be achieved when the editors apply themselves. Highly Recommended!
review 2: I think my liking for the multi-author short story compilation is fairlywell established....so here's another one!"Down These Strange Streets" is an urban fantasy collection focussing on detectives. As well as the Usual Suspects, such as Simon R Green's John Taylor, there are some from other areas- for instance, a couple of tales set in ancient Rome. A couple of the stories didn't really work for me-they weren't badly written, & were well - constructed, but just didn't do it for me. Aside from those, all of these atories kept me entertained, & in some cases wanting to seek out more by some authors I've not previously read.Definitely worth a look. less

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