The Catalog of Lost Objects

This novella was a perfect example of how a great original idea sometimes just isn’t enough. You also have to personally connect with the narration. And for some reason here the execution of this terrific idea left something to be desired. Although honestly not quite sure what that was. Maybe writing the review would help putting it into words. The plot consists of a dual narrative, one taking place in a near future where a woman joins a cult/commune and gets offered a chance to time travel, kinda sorta. And then in the far future, a scavenger travels in a sentient spaceship collecting various objects from the past, going by…you guessed it, the eponymous catalog. Turns out in the past someone figured out how to launch objects into the future, a vague attempt at immortality if there ever was one, and now these objects have a certain collectable value and appeal. But what if it wasn’t just objects that traveled through time. It’s such an intriguing concept, nostalgic, moody in the right way, haunting almost. There was just a certain distance to the narrative that wasn’t allowing the immersive reading experience I was hoping for. Then again, it’s entirely possible I was just really sleepy. At any rate, it’s such a quick read, it’s worth checking out for the concept alone. And who knows, maybe it’ll work for you. The writing had so many clever moments, including samples from the catalog itself. The world material reduced to objects and whatever meaning may be extrapolated from them, what a thought. Interesting read, something original for science fiction fans. Thanks Netgalley.

This is a short story with a strong start. The author has a nice readable style and the story of a man and his smart salvage ship looking for old time capsules was interesting. The second storyline cut in at the right place but then the alternating sections were to short. That hurt the pacing. The big reveal was somewhat incongruent and a bit weak.

The coda was a good idea but I don't think the payoff was there. I'll read more by this author to see if he improves with experience.

Book is about a modern day Sanford and Sons of the universe. Interesting take on how the world changes and what constitutes value in the future.

This novella was a beautiful little story that left me wanting more. There are two stories running in the book. There is one character in the past who joins a cult, and then there is the other main character in the future who is looking for lost artifacts that have been launched into space. Their stories come together, and I really enjoyed reading it, but I wish there was more exploration into the whole story. It’s still very much worth reading especially since it’s a quick read. I’d love to see a second novel set around the artifact collector.
I received a free ARC of this book from Netgalley in return for my honest review