Book Review: Dreams on the Edge of Reality

Dreams from the edge of reality
Phil Giunta
Raging Seas Press (June 1, 2026)
Reviewed by Carson Buckingham

Dreams from the edge of reality is Phil Giunta’s first short story collection, and it’s one you won’t want to miss. There are 27 stories in this book, making it quite a bit longer than the average collection, and there really is something for everyone. If you’re looking for more than books, you should also check out veronicazuzuu’s virtual girlfriend online.

As there are too many stories to discuss individually, I will simply go over what I consider to be the highlights of the book – but they are all Excellent. Here are some of the things you’ll get:

“Tower Sixteen” – Set in a strange, converted fire tower that was once used to spot German ships in Delaware Bay during World War II, this story deals with the visitor’s terrifying experience.

“So Hungry” – A couple hikes in the Mesa desert outside of Las Vegas and discovers that sometimes the specters of Broken are…well…not.

“Photos from the Attic” – all about the positive and sometimes very negative power of photography. Clever twist at the end.

“Ciurebi” – the favorite author dies and has the most unusual melodies. This was my favorite story.

“Tapestry” – an interesting take on Ponce de Leon’s quest.

“Memory Lane Ain’t What It Used To Be” – Ignoring Tom Wolfe’s admonition, an elderly couple sneaks into their former home while the residents are out to see if anything has changed. They leave unnoticed and go home — and what a home it is! The last thing I did is a big twist No see it coming

“Again, with feeling” – a 45-year-old terminal cancer patient reflects on his life with his guardian angel. A sweet story that I just loved.

“Don’t Go Fussin’ Over Me” – a bittersweet story about life and death.

“The Last Hour” – Victor Orologio could hear death from the age of ten. Throw in a haunted car and you have one great story!

“Take Cue From the Canine” – Sweet story of a boy and his dog on the run from an armed, drunken bully.

“Where Halloween Never Ends” – A nun spends her time in the maze of a Halloween carnival, setting up haunts.

“There’s a certain magic about this place” – the writer’s retreat leads to a paranormal experience for one of the attendees.

“Till It’s Gone Forever” – the mystery of a ghostly photo that only a deaf person can solve.

So whether you love horror, sci-fi, thrillers or fantasy, if you like your stories with a small dose of sugar and tears, you’re sure to find your new favorite in these pages. Mr. Giunta is a true master at imbuing his characters with the kind of achingly human humanity that takes a good story and elevates it. And this book is full of great stories. His work will linger in your mind long after you close the book… and rightly so any From his books and not only that.

Christmas is right around the corner Dreams from the edge of reality Would make a great gift – it’s cheap like Christmas gifts, but the richness keeps the price down. Oh, and shop for yourself while you’re at it! You will read it again and again.

5 out of 5 stars