Galaxy Press/BooksGoSocial provided an early galley for review.

I have had the opportunity to check out several past volumes in this yearly anthology of new writers, and I've always managed to find a few tales in each one that I enjoy. With twelve new writers showcased as well as a trio of veterans and artists, I knew there would be a good chance at finding treasure once more.

"Nonzero" by Tom Vandermolen presents one of those grim aspects of space exploration. You can feel for Susan as she is forced to face and accept the reality of her situation. Very powerful.

"The Imagalisk" by Galen Westlake has an interesting premise revolving around people's imaginary friends that really worked for me.

"Squiddy" by John Eric Schleicher has an odd alien element that makes this orovate eye story intriguing from the jump.

"Summer of Thirty Years" by Lisa Silverthorne gives us a couple reliving their summers decades after they have long since shuffled off the mortal coil. It is a beautiful story about love and sacrifice.

This is the fortieth collection of short stories and artwork of a fantasy/sf bent. I enjoyed this collection - some were darker than others but all were beautifully written I thought. There's so much talent on display here that I can't pick a favourite. Long may this series/ contest continue!

Another in the long line of Writers of the Future anthologies, this volume offers a selection of fantasy and sf tales that struck me as generally journeyman efforts. Which, given this is a contest for new writers, makes sense. Still, I felt that prior volumes have brought some more polished work. The contest has an excellent track record of producing fine writers and future winners of major awards, so I do not disparage its propensity for picking winners; I will follow this crew of writers in the future. I was entertained by Butter Side Down, appreciated Ashes to Ashes, Blood to Carbonfiber, and was impressed by Son, Spirit, Snake. Worth picking up.

Volume #40 in this excellent anthology series. I have discovered so many new authors and/or characters through this series. Writing a short story requires excellent skills. The writer must capture the readers attention, build the story, and set the perfect reveal all in the same length as a chapter in a novel. And as always, I loved some stories more than others but I appreciate the talent displayed here. Cover art by Dan Dos Santos is so beautiful, it can take your breath away. You can recognize his work anywhere.