Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
32(32%)
4 stars
33(33%)
3 stars
35(35%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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Creo que esta es una antología muy bien formada.

Cada uno de los cuentos se entrelaza con el siguiente, compartiendo teoría de mundos y una mitología de SciFi similar. Además, tienen ese deje de protesta y pacifismo que Martin usa como lección en muchas de sus historias.

La mejor parte es que, como en "Los reyes de la arena: Cuentos de terror", Martin crea mundos que te hacen querer saber más. Aunque los cuentos terminan justo donde deben, con un poco de imaginación, puedes conocer conclusiones completas.

Quizás sea mejor leer estas historias de manera entrelazada, ya que así se aprecia lo que comparten y se puede armar una cosmogonía más amplia. Y este libro cumple bien esa parte.

Lo negativo, como es habitual, recae en el tratamiento del sexo femenino. Aunque no hay mujeres destacadas, el hecho de que no sean vistas como carne es un avance.

En resumen, procedo al ranking.

"9.— Por Solo un Ayer": Me gustó este relato. Trata de un mundo postapocaliptico donde una comunidad sobrevive gracias a la ayuda mutua. Keith, el músico, ofrece conciertos y viaja en el tiempo gracias a una droga.

"8.— La Presentación": Es un debate sobre el progreso científico y el bienestar humano. Aunque el tema es importante, la historia no lleva a ningún lado.

"7.— Esa Otra Clase de Soledad": Un diario que cuenta la soledad de un hombre en una estación espacial. También muestra los efectos de la soledad en una persona.

"6.— El Héroe": Un hombre que ha servido 20 años en el ejército quiere retirarse, pero sus jefes lo quieren mantener. Es un gran inicio para una historia de traiciones y rebeliones.

"5.— La Negra Oscuridad de los Túneles": Siento mucho con esta historia. Explora un mundo postapocaliptico después de una guerra entre la Tierra y la Luna.

"4.—Ni las Llamas Multicolor de un Anillo Estelar": Muestra el humor de Martin y da información sobre su universo. Aunque el narrador es masculino, la coprotagonista es mujer.

"3.— Una Canción para Lya": Martin explora la soledad, la necesidad de creer en un dios y los extremos a los que podemos llegar. También muestra la secta Shkeen y su religión.

"2.— Y Siete Veces Digo: Al Hombre No Matarás": Es una historia sobre una secta guerrera que cree tener la verdad absoluta. Está bien contada y tiene un buen final.

"1.— La Neblina se pone por la Mañana": Es un debate sobre la curiosidad humana, el asombro y el progreso científico. También muestra el planeta de los Espectros y la lucha entre la realidad y la imaginación.
July 15,2025
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A disturbing volume of science fiction stories that leaves you with a million questions.

Without claiming to be a fanatic of books in the science fiction sphere, the volume in question left me with a desolate feeling. I constantly had the impression of loneliness and isolation.

This collection of stories seems to delve into the deepest recesses of the human psyche, exploring themes that are both thought-provoking and unsettling. Each story takes you on a journey through strange and unfamiliar worlds, filled with unique characters and situations.

As I turned the pages, I found myself completely immersed in the narrative, unable to tear myself away. The writing is engaging and the ideas presented are truly original. However, it also left me with a sense of unease, as if there were hidden meanings and messages that I was only beginning to understand.

Overall, this volume of science fiction stories is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the boundaries of the genre. It will challenge your preconceptions and leave you with a lot to think about long after you have finished reading.
July 15,2025
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Una Canción Para Lya se convirtió en uno de mis cuentos favoritos.

Just like every anthology, it is not perfect, but it is highly recommendable.

There is a caveat, though. These stories have a completely different tone from Game of Thrones. Do not expect anything similar here.

The tales in Una Canción Para Lya offer a unique and captivating experience. They take you on a journey through different worlds and emotions, each one with its own charm.

While it may not have the same grandeur and complexity as Game of Thrones, it has its own merits.

The writing is engaging, the characters are well-developed, and the plots are interesting enough to keep you hooked from start to finish.

If you are looking for something different, something that will transport you to another realm, then Una Canción Para Lya is definitely worth a read.
July 15,2025
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Hermosa, hermosa, hermosa antología. Hermosa y devastadora.

This anthology is truly beautiful, yet it has a certain power that can be quite devastating. It effortlessly earns five stars and has found its way into my favorites list, even though there were times when I was unable to finish a story.

I absolutely adored how George utilizes science fiction to conduct a comprehensive examination of vulnerability, fears, and everything that makes a human being, well, human.

It's truly excellent. The stories within this anthology take you on a journey through different worlds and perspectives, making you question and reflect on the human condition. Each tale is crafted with such skill and precision that it leaves a lasting impression. Whether it's exploring the depths of our emotions or imagining the possibilities of the future, this anthology has something for everyone. It's a must-read for any lover of science fiction or anyone interested in understanding the human psyche.
July 15,2025
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I really liked this anthology. These are some of the first stories he wrote, and just as I thought with Muerte de la Luz, his imagination and the basis of his future captivating writing style can already be noticed. And I don't take away the merit of these stories. Instead, I love A Song of Ice and Fire (will we ever see the end?).


The stories that I liked the most were 'With morning comes mistfall', 'Dark, dark were the tunnels' and 'A song for Lya'. Even those that didn't have plots that interested me as much, like 'Run to starlight' which is largely about American football (but still very entertaining), caught my attention in some way.


There are certain themes that are found in almost all the stories, such as loneliness in different forms and a certain kind of melancholy, and some common things that made me think that maybe everything is set in the same universe. It's interesting to read if you like science fiction and fantasy.


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With morning comes mistfall: 4★


The second kind of loneliness: 4★


Override: 4★


Dark, dark were the tunnels: 4★


The hero: 3★


fta: 3.5★ (very short, but I liked the ending)


Run to starlight: 3.5★


The exit to San Breta: 4★


Slide show: 4★


A song for Lya: 4★
July 15,2025
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4.5 I talked a little bit about all the stories... but in the review, hahahaha.

Here: http://miotrarealidadetinta.blogspot....

My two favorites, however, were "Una canción para Lya" and "Esa otra clase de soledad." ;)

These two stories really stood out to me. "Una canción para Lya" had a beautiful and touching narrative that drew me in from the start. The characters and their relationships were well-developed, and the story had a certain charm that made it truly memorable.

On the other hand, "Esa otra clase de soledad" had a more mysterious and thought-provoking atmosphere. It made me think about different aspects of life and relationships in a new way. The writing style was engaging, and I found myself completely immersed in the story.

Overall, I really enjoyed reading these two stories and would highly recommend them to others.
July 15,2025
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This story has been the biggest disappointment I've had so far this year.

Since I don't expect anything from the authors I read, I think the problem has precisely been that. I did expect things from Martin, because I had already had the opportunity to read the first of A Song of Ice and Fire, which is very different from this collection of stories.

Well, the stories, in general, have one (or two) common themes and that is a futuristic view of the earth, that part of fantasy called science fiction. In my impression, I think all (or at least most) of them develop in the same universe, but at different moments of it. We have, for example, the view of an apocalyptic world that falls into the hands of radiation and, further on, humans adapted to living underground as a result of a radioactive end of the world.

But what stands out in most of the tales are the new planets, different extraterrestrial races, some strange, others not so much; travels through what Martin calls space holes (which in my ignorance I don't know if they exist. Forgive me for not paying attention in my school classes) and research of all these wonders.

Yes, I'm not lying to you. When I came across this collection I was looking for books on reptilian conspiracy theories. I love those topics.

The problem I've generally had with the stories is that there's nothing impactful in them. They are very monotonous, boring, predictable and end as if they were ideas for which no more solution was found, as if Martin wanted to get rid of them to be able to continue with something much more important. I admit that, if it was to write A Song of Ice and Fire, I'll let it pass.

The story that gives the collection its name was actually one of the ones I liked the least. It deals with two superhumans (they're not called that, I clarify), one of them reads people's feelings and the other reads minds. They are taken to a planet to find out why humans are converting to the religion professed by the native extraterrestrials there, since this makes them commit suicide at some point in their lives.

Doesn't the premise sound good? Unfortunately, since I'm a rather solitary person and don't have the need to feel that people love me (which is basically the problem of the story), it seemed more of a stupidity to me than something impactful.

However, I also don't want to tell lies. There were some that, although I didn't love them, neither did I think they were a failure, like That other kind of loneliness, which if it weren't for the constant presence of Karen (do you notice that there's always a Karen?) would have been a thousand times better; or And seven times I say: Thou shalt not kill, which I think is very realistic, I find many parallels, but the end is too confusing and silly for what the rest was.

This doesn't mean that the same will happen to you. Given that my empathy generally lies on the ground with literary characters that don't awaken any maternal instinct in me, it's likely that you'll find the stories interesting and, perhaps, even love these stories.

The ideas, in general, seem great to me. What is a bit off is the execution of them. But no one is a genius and it's normal that there are more powerful stories than others.

As I understand it, these are Martin's first steps in literature. Like everyone else's, they're not perfect, but the path to digital evolution is important enough. Well there. Take motivation from this man if you happen to want to be writers: humble beginnings, but a prosperous future.
July 15,2025
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“La negra oscuridad de los túneles” - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

And with this story, a very enjoyable book comes to an end. It clearly shows the virtues that George R. R. Martin has for writing.

Martin's writing is truly captivating. He has the ability to create vivid and immersive worlds, filled with complex characters and intricate plots. The way he weaves together different storylines and perspectives keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end.

In this particular story, “La negra oscuridad de los túneles,” he once again展示了 his talent. The dark and mysterious atmosphere of the tunnels is palpable, drawing the reader in and making them feel as if they are right there with the characters.

Overall, this book is a testament to Martin's skill as a writer. It is a must-read for fans of fantasy and anyone who appreciates great storytelling. I look forward to reading more of his work in the future.
July 15,2025
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George R.R. Martin's series of short-stories is filled with profound insights.

They are short in length but carry a special emotional weight.

The scenes taken from the future are truly remarkable.

Only a master like George R.R. Martin could create such works.

Among them, my favorites have been 'A Different Kind of Solitude', 'Black, Black Were the Tunnels', and of course, 'A Song for Lya', which almost made me cry.

These short-stories offer a unique perspective on various themes and emotions.

They draw the readers in and make them experience a range of feelings.

Martin's writing style is engaging and his ability to create vivid imagery is outstanding.

Each story is a gem in its own right, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Whether it's the exploration of solitude, the darkness of tunnels, or the beauty of a song, Martin's stories have something for everyone.

They are a must-read for any fan of science fiction and fantasy.

Overall, this series of short-stories is a testament to Martin's talent as a writer.

It showcases his creativity and his ability to tell compelling stories that touch the heart.

I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally satisfying read.

July 15,2025
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It is indeed true that any book by the author is overshadowed by what he achieved with the "A Song of Ice and Fire" saga. However, it is a recommendable book for entertainment reading.

In the compilation of stories, there are some very good tales, such as the one titled "A Song for Lya" or "Not Even the Multicolored Flames of a Stellar Ring", and others that, in my opinion, are average.

Still, the book is recommendable. I continue to admire George Martin's ability to present the reader with something different from anything he has read before.

Martin's writing style is engaging and immersive, drawing the reader into the worlds he creates. The characters are well-developed and the plots are often complex and full of surprises.

Even though some of the stories may not be as strong as others, the overall collection is worth reading for fans of science fiction and fantasy. It offers a unique glimpse into Martin's creative mind and his ability to tell captivating stories.

So, if you're looking for a good read to pass the time, this book is definitely worth considering.
July 15,2025
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p73: He must take them to the People. This simple statement holds a certain mystery and importance. It makes one wonder who "them" are and why they need to be taken to the People.


p94: "...I'm sure you understand...." This phrase implies a sense of confidence in the understanding of the other person. It creates a connection between the speaker and the listener.


p95: "One problem remains, however," he said, coming to the director's rescue. The addition of "however" indicates a转折, suggesting that despite some progress or resolution, there is still an issue that needs to be addressed.


p139: I said, "You're taking away my stars." This line reveals a sense of loss or frustration. The "stars" could symbolize something precious or important to the speaker.


These stories are surprisingly good. They would give early Dean Koontz a run for his money. This comparison to a well-known author like Dean Koontz emphasizes the quality and appeal of these stories. It makes the reader eager to explore them further and discover what makes them so special.

July 15,2025
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"Song for lya" is truly a remarkable and captivating story. It delves into a plethora of profound themes, including religion, the concept of god, the power of love, and the presence of special abilities. The narrative weaves these elements together in a seamless and engaging manner, drawing the reader in and holding their attention from start to finish. I found myself completely enthralled by the story, unable to put it down. So much so that I ended up reading it not just once, but again and again. Each time I returned to the pages, I discovered new nuances and interpretations, further deepening my appreciation for this wonderful piece of literature.

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