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Rend the Dark #1
Rend the Dark
The great Ruins are gone. The titans. The behemoths. All banished to the Dark and nearly forgotten. But the cunning ones, the patient ones remain. They hide not in the cracks of the earth or in the shadows of the world. But inside us. Wearing our skin. Waiting. Watching.
Once haunted by visions of the world beyond, Ferran now wields that power to hunt the very monsters that he once feared. He is not alone. Others bear the same terrible burden. But Hunter or hunted, it makes no difference. Eventually, everything returns to the Dark.
Once haunted by visions of the world beyond, Ferran now wields that power to hunt the very monsters that he once feared. He is not alone. Others bear the same terrible burden. But Hunter or hunted, it makes no difference. Eventually, everything returns to the Dark.
104 pages, Paperback
First published October 15, 2015
About the author
Mark Gelineau
12 books403 followersEver since the day he discovered his grandfather's stacks of pulps,comics, and sci-fi and fantasy novels, Mark was fascinated. When he saw his first movie, Star Wars, he was hooked. Stories of adventure and far off worlds thrilled him then and inspire him now. It was this passion for imaginative storytelling that led him to writing and education. In addition to his own writing work, Mark has taught middle school English for the last thirteen years, and is excited to share his stories with his young son, Bryce.
Mark has partnered with Joe King, and the two have formed Gelineau and King, in order to bring an exciting new approach to the genre fiction that inspired him as a kid
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
March 20, 2017
Originally reviewed at Bookwraiths.
Rend the Dark is the type of genre blender story which I adore. Specifically this novella takes horror and fantasy themes, mixes them all together and concocts a powerful brew which is insightful, suspenseful, and meaningful. All the while, Mr. Gelineau and Mr. King also find time to give enough nods to world building and characterization to make this far from a one-and-done story, but rather serve as a true launching pad for a brand new series, one which demands to be followed to the end.
In the short prologue, Ferran, an acolyte of the Order of Talan (or “witch hunters” as most call them) is introduced; his life long ability to see the hidden demons who haunt the world bringing both sorrow and determination to his life from a young age. But while Ferran recalls his past, his eyes look to the future, and as he eventually hefts his short spear in one hand and wraps a long silver battle chain around his other, a reader’s pulse begins to pound, as this would be hero sets off to help rid the world of its hidden tormentors.
Once the main story begins, however, a new point of view character is quickly introduces: Hileon the magister. This ordinary government agent is anxiously waiting the arrival of strangers to his territory. His mind is a whirl, his fears are great; even the presence of his friend and fellow magister Riffolk as well as the formidable warder Aker is not sufficing to set his mind at ease. The reason is fairly simple: strange occurrences and disappearances are happening.
Naturally, on cue, two strangers appear. One is Ferran; the other is his fellow witch hunter Mireia. The two having been summoned by Warder Aker, who fears that worse than bandits are loose in the march. And when demons are mentioned as the possible culprits, poor Hileon’s legs grow weak from even contemplating something so awful, and he and Riffolk attempt to shout down even the remote possibility of such beings even existing. But soon circumstances bring the matter into focus, taking Hileon, Ferran and all the rest down into the depths of darkness and despair, as the true nightmares of the world arise around them!
To my eyes, the beauty of Rend is two fold: it is short in length but filled with depth. Or, in other words, Mr. Gelineau and Mr. King gift readers with a quick, horror-infused adventure story in a fantasy world, which is amazingly well developed. How they accomplish this is truly mesmerizing. A statement here, a flashback there, a short comment, and this fantasy world and its denizens quickly begin to materialize before your eyes. All the while, you hardly notice it occurring because you are so focused on the terrifying situations which our main characters are attempting to navigate their way through. And while I could complain about the story not being long enough, I won’t, because I’m completely sold on the authors’ vision and fully intend to ride this amazing novella series until it ends!
I received this book from the authors and Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank both of them for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
Rend the Dark is the type of genre blender story which I adore. Specifically this novella takes horror and fantasy themes, mixes them all together and concocts a powerful brew which is insightful, suspenseful, and meaningful. All the while, Mr. Gelineau and Mr. King also find time to give enough nods to world building and characterization to make this far from a one-and-done story, but rather serve as a true launching pad for a brand new series, one which demands to be followed to the end.
In the short prologue, Ferran, an acolyte of the Order of Talan (or “witch hunters” as most call them) is introduced; his life long ability to see the hidden demons who haunt the world bringing both sorrow and determination to his life from a young age. But while Ferran recalls his past, his eyes look to the future, and as he eventually hefts his short spear in one hand and wraps a long silver battle chain around his other, a reader’s pulse begins to pound, as this would be hero sets off to help rid the world of its hidden tormentors.
Once the main story begins, however, a new point of view character is quickly introduces: Hileon the magister. This ordinary government agent is anxiously waiting the arrival of strangers to his territory. His mind is a whirl, his fears are great; even the presence of his friend and fellow magister Riffolk as well as the formidable warder Aker is not sufficing to set his mind at ease. The reason is fairly simple: strange occurrences and disappearances are happening.
Naturally, on cue, two strangers appear. One is Ferran; the other is his fellow witch hunter Mireia. The two having been summoned by Warder Aker, who fears that worse than bandits are loose in the march. And when demons are mentioned as the possible culprits, poor Hileon’s legs grow weak from even contemplating something so awful, and he and Riffolk attempt to shout down even the remote possibility of such beings even existing. But soon circumstances bring the matter into focus, taking Hileon, Ferran and all the rest down into the depths of darkness and despair, as the true nightmares of the world arise around them!
To my eyes, the beauty of Rend is two fold: it is short in length but filled with depth. Or, in other words, Mr. Gelineau and Mr. King gift readers with a quick, horror-infused adventure story in a fantasy world, which is amazingly well developed. How they accomplish this is truly mesmerizing. A statement here, a flashback there, a short comment, and this fantasy world and its denizens quickly begin to materialize before your eyes. All the while, you hardly notice it occurring because you are so focused on the terrifying situations which our main characters are attempting to navigate their way through. And while I could complain about the story not being long enough, I won’t, because I’m completely sold on the authors’ vision and fully intend to ride this amazing novella series until it ends!
I received this book from the authors and Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I’d like to thank both of them for allowing me to receive this review copy and inform everyone that the review you have read is my opinion alone.
February 28, 2016
I feel like me giving Gelineau and King’s novellas 5 stars is not even a surprise anymore. I am addicted. Addicted. I suspect you guys are some sort of sorcerers because there is no other explanation for how you manage to make such amazing stories. There’s action, humor, awesome supernatural creatures, friendship…and even a plot twist. How on Earth do you guys manage to include every single one of these aspects into such a short story? I loved the characters & I loved the setting, of course. Now excuse me, Skinshaper is waiting for me.
You can read this review on BookishFever.
*E-copy provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review via Netgalley.*
June 26, 2017
Once the world was filled with horrible monsters called Ruins. The massive Ruins were sent back to the Dark from whence they came, but the clever and patient ones remain. The remaining hide in plain sight and are a blight on those who do not believe the old stories. Fortunately the world still has acolytes of the Order of Talan watching over it.
Rend the Dark was the first story I heard about in the Echoes of the Ascended series and the one I was most excited about. I don't like to watch monster movies, but reading about the creatures of darkness that go bump in the night is quite exhilarating for me.
Rend the Dark has the familiar tropes of many monster hunter stories yet that doesn't bother me in the least. The ancient Ruins hide among men, hidden from all except those with special abilities like the sight. Ferran and Mireia are two such special individuals. They arrive at the call from Warden Aker of suspicious activities in the Greenhope march.
Ferran and Mireia are a quality duo that I truly appreciate. Ferran has a deep hate of the ancient evil and a desire to prove himself worthy. Mireia seems to have a deep compassion for people along with devotion to the cause. I look forward to more stories about them.
Rend the Dark is easily my favorite story in the Echoes of Ascended series thus far.
4.5 out of 5 stars
Rend the Dark was the first story I heard about in the Echoes of the Ascended series and the one I was most excited about. I don't like to watch monster movies, but reading about the creatures of darkness that go bump in the night is quite exhilarating for me.
Rend the Dark has the familiar tropes of many monster hunter stories yet that doesn't bother me in the least. The ancient Ruins hide among men, hidden from all except those with special abilities like the sight. Ferran and Mireia are two such special individuals. They arrive at the call from Warden Aker of suspicious activities in the Greenhope march.
Ferran and Mireia are a quality duo that I truly appreciate. Ferran has a deep hate of the ancient evil and a desire to prove himself worthy. Mireia seems to have a deep compassion for people along with devotion to the cause. I look forward to more stories about them.
Rend the Dark is easily my favorite story in the Echoes of Ascended series thus far.
4.5 out of 5 stars
February 4, 2016
Short, dark, brutal. With a dash of hope at the end.
Još jedna odlična kratka knjižica smeštena u svet "Echoes of the Ascended". Pratimo skroz nove likove od kojih je smao jedan marginalno povezan sa glavnim likom iz "A Reaper of Stone". Ljudi su pet odlično prikazani, izgledaju realno i ponašaju se onako kako bi se očekivalo što je uvek veliki plus. Sama priča je interesantna i opet imamo fin razvj mitologije bez prevelike ekspozicije.
U svakom slučaju preporuka.
P.S. Iako bih ovo stavio u dark fantasy po sadržini sviđa mi se činjenica što nije suviše mračna ili depresivna iako ima teških situacija.
Još jedna odlična kratka knjižica smeštena u svet "Echoes of the Ascended". Pratimo skroz nove likove od kojih je smao jedan marginalno povezan sa glavnim likom iz "A Reaper of Stone". Ljudi su pet odlično prikazani, izgledaju realno i ponašaju se onako kako bi se očekivalo što je uvek veliki plus. Sama priča je interesantna i opet imamo fin razvj mitologije bez prevelike ekspozicije.
U svakom slučaju preporuka.
P.S. Iako bih ovo stavio u dark fantasy po sadržini sviđa mi se činjenica što nije suviše mračna ili depresivna iako ima teških situacija.
April 12, 2016
5 Words: Dark, monsters, friendship, destruction, salvation.
This was considerably darker than the other books (so far) in the Ascended series, and while I did enjoy it a bit, I didn't enjoy it as much as Elinor's story.
If anything, this darker installment is quite gripping and incredibly fast paced, and I felt it lent quite heavily towards horror, which is not a genre I seek out but do enjoy from time to time.
I do love the world that the two authors have created. It is rich, dark and smoky, with slightly bitter notes. Like dark chocolate or coffee.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
This was considerably darker than the other books (so far) in the Ascended series, and while I did enjoy it a bit, I didn't enjoy it as much as Elinor's story.
If anything, this darker installment is quite gripping and incredibly fast paced, and I felt it lent quite heavily towards horror, which is not a genre I seek out but do enjoy from time to time.
I do love the world that the two authors have created. It is rich, dark and smoky, with slightly bitter notes. Like dark chocolate or coffee.
I received a copy of this for free via NetGalley for review purposes.
Read
February 3, 2016Hi everybody. Joe and I have a new novella to bring to you. This is book #1 of the Rend the Dark series.
Rend the Dark is our fast, fun action-horror adventure. It’s a monster story. A team story.
There’s a lot of Joe and me in these pages. I love the horror elements: the atmosphere, the shocks, the creepy stuff that keeps you awake at night. And Joe has always been more into the human elements: what happens to people in these situations, the importance of a team to face terrors that are greater than any one person can imagine, and of course, what happens when the bad things start messing with that team in very bad ways.
The series follows Ferran, a young man who was haunted by visions of demons as a child, but learned to channel those visions into power at the Order of Talan, where he was trained. Together with a member of his order and allies they meet along the way, their story takes them deeper and deeper into the darkness, toward an ending that will change everything and everyone.
The complete story is told through a series of novellas. Think of it like your favorite episode-based TV show. Each novella can stand on its own, but when read together, it tells the fuller story.
Rend the Dark is one of the four series in Echoes of the Ascended.
Echoes of the Ascended is a series of series.
It follows the lives of five orphans. Each series features different characters. Each is a different kind of tale.
Read one, two, three, or all the series to customize your own unique, personal experience into the grander story of Aedaron.
Be sure to check out more information about all the other series, us, and our mailing list at our webpage: www.gelineauandking.com
We hope you like the stories, and a huge thank you again to everyone who’s supported us and our crazy, crazy idea. We wouldn’t be here without you.
Mark & Joe
Rend the Dark is our fast, fun action-horror adventure. It’s a monster story. A team story.
There’s a lot of Joe and me in these pages. I love the horror elements: the atmosphere, the shocks, the creepy stuff that keeps you awake at night. And Joe has always been more into the human elements: what happens to people in these situations, the importance of a team to face terrors that are greater than any one person can imagine, and of course, what happens when the bad things start messing with that team in very bad ways.
The series follows Ferran, a young man who was haunted by visions of demons as a child, but learned to channel those visions into power at the Order of Talan, where he was trained. Together with a member of his order and allies they meet along the way, their story takes them deeper and deeper into the darkness, toward an ending that will change everything and everyone.
The complete story is told through a series of novellas. Think of it like your favorite episode-based TV show. Each novella can stand on its own, but when read together, it tells the fuller story.
Rend the Dark is one of the four series in Echoes of the Ascended.
Echoes of the Ascended is a series of series.
It follows the lives of five orphans. Each series features different characters. Each is a different kind of tale.
Read one, two, three, or all the series to customize your own unique, personal experience into the grander story of Aedaron.
Be sure to check out more information about all the other series, us, and our mailing list at our webpage: www.gelineauandking.com
We hope you like the stories, and a huge thank you again to everyone who’s supported us and our crazy, crazy idea. We wouldn’t be here without you.
Mark & Joe
February 7, 2016
Reviewed on my blog - Books by Proxy
4 Stars
My first venture into the world of Aedaron, and the work of Mark Gelineau and Joe King, was with A Reaper of Stone – a surprising and imaginative novella with all the flavour of a high fantasy epic in well under a hundred a pages. Leaving me with a distinct and favourable impression, I couldn’t wait to sample the next self-contained novella in the series and see if this duo could pull off another winning read.
And I needn’t have even questioned it! Rend the Dark is a dark fantasy epic condensed into a tight and action packed narrative. Exquisitely written and as beautiful as it is terrifying, this is novella which had me instantly reaching for the next Echo in what promises to be a lengthy and incredibly enjoyable foray into bite-sized fantasy.
-
Rend the Dark follows the story of Ferran, a witch hunter – or acolyte of the Order of Talan – who is gifted with the ability to see the terrible Ruins of the world, Ruins which would otherwise remain hidden from human eyes. But whilst hidden, their darkness continues to spread across the lands where they thrive in the shadows and stalks the unwary; people are starting to disappear from towns and villages, strange tales haunt the marches, and very few can guess what truly hunts them.
Together with fellow acolyte Mireia; two magistrates of Greenhope, Riffolk and Hil; and a Warden; Ferran must track down the Ruins which prey upon the land and send them to the abyss – The fate of the people of Greenhope, and perhaps of the whole world, depends upon it. But things are never that simple…
-
In this next instalment, Aedaron is once again etched out in surprisingly rich detail and, whilst clearly a part of a whole, Rend the Dark is completely unique in tone and character and can be read as a stand alone novella. This is a tale which carries with it a far darker shadow than before, pushing it into the realms of dark fantasy horror; this is a land where nightmares and suspicions abound, and where monsters prey on the weak in full and Ruinous glory. The narrative offers a far more bleak and terrifying world than its predecessor, a world where hope is shrouded in mystery and doubt; and a world which is populated by the good and terrible in equal measure.
Once again I am thoroughly impressed (and a little mystified) that this dynamic duo can fit so much into so short a read. This is a novella which is saturated with threat, where descriptive and vivid depictions of its horrors unfold in a flurry of cinematic action, and where description and action blend seamlessly for a non-stop read from start to finish. Gelineau and King have succeeded in creating and building upon a world which is at once familiar, yet manages to retain its own distinctive – and extremely dark and gritty – flavour.
Rend the Dark, whilst hinting at its links to the alternative novellas, offers the reader a new set of characters to become utterly absorbed in. Ferran is an intriguing protagonist whose depth of character, along with his ‘weaknesses’, are exposed from the very start. His depiction is distinctive, his personality both likeable and mysterious, and he somehow manages to retain a compelling and enigmatic air which is incredibly enticing and most definitely leaves you wanting to find out more.
Although this is a Ferran novella, equal playtime is also given to his companions in arms. These characters are given their own third person perspective in which to engage the reader, and do so with great success. Hil and Riffolk, the two Magistrates of Greenhope, are much like the reader in this novella – they are the laymen, the ordinary folk who go by in life and don’t see the darkness at its edges – and as such, their narrative allows the reader to gain an equal footing from the start. It is characters such as these that truly connect the reader to the story.
A Reaper of Stone showcased skilled active description and fantastic worldbuilding – two aspects which might otherwise have been lost over so short a narrative – but Rend the Dark blew me away. Skilled characterisation is combined with an incredible ability to effectively convey the horrors of the Ruinsin this fast paced and thrilling tale. Gelineau and King most certainly know how to make an impression.
-
The Echoes of the Ascended are a wonderful blend of a fully contained and bite-sized narrative set against an open world where enough of the tale is left untold to make the reader keep coming back for more. I still find it hard to believe that so much can be packed into so short a read – and Rend the Dark certainly packed a punch. Do you have an hour or so to spare? Train journey? Lunch break? Gelineau and King have you covered. I cannot wait to get my hands on the next.
4 Stars
My first venture into the world of Aedaron, and the work of Mark Gelineau and Joe King, was with A Reaper of Stone – a surprising and imaginative novella with all the flavour of a high fantasy epic in well under a hundred a pages. Leaving me with a distinct and favourable impression, I couldn’t wait to sample the next self-contained novella in the series and see if this duo could pull off another winning read.
And I needn’t have even questioned it! Rend the Dark is a dark fantasy epic condensed into a tight and action packed narrative. Exquisitely written and as beautiful as it is terrifying, this is novella which had me instantly reaching for the next Echo in what promises to be a lengthy and incredibly enjoyable foray into bite-sized fantasy.
-
Rend the Dark follows the story of Ferran, a witch hunter – or acolyte of the Order of Talan – who is gifted with the ability to see the terrible Ruins of the world, Ruins which would otherwise remain hidden from human eyes. But whilst hidden, their darkness continues to spread across the lands where they thrive in the shadows and stalks the unwary; people are starting to disappear from towns and villages, strange tales haunt the marches, and very few can guess what truly hunts them.
Together with fellow acolyte Mireia; two magistrates of Greenhope, Riffolk and Hil; and a Warden; Ferran must track down the Ruins which prey upon the land and send them to the abyss – The fate of the people of Greenhope, and perhaps of the whole world, depends upon it. But things are never that simple…
-
In this next instalment, Aedaron is once again etched out in surprisingly rich detail and, whilst clearly a part of a whole, Rend the Dark is completely unique in tone and character and can be read as a stand alone novella. This is a tale which carries with it a far darker shadow than before, pushing it into the realms of dark fantasy horror; this is a land where nightmares and suspicions abound, and where monsters prey on the weak in full and Ruinous glory. The narrative offers a far more bleak and terrifying world than its predecessor, a world where hope is shrouded in mystery and doubt; and a world which is populated by the good and terrible in equal measure.
Once again I am thoroughly impressed (and a little mystified) that this dynamic duo can fit so much into so short a read. This is a novella which is saturated with threat, where descriptive and vivid depictions of its horrors unfold in a flurry of cinematic action, and where description and action blend seamlessly for a non-stop read from start to finish. Gelineau and King have succeeded in creating and building upon a world which is at once familiar, yet manages to retain its own distinctive – and extremely dark and gritty – flavour.
Rend the Dark, whilst hinting at its links to the alternative novellas, offers the reader a new set of characters to become utterly absorbed in. Ferran is an intriguing protagonist whose depth of character, along with his ‘weaknesses’, are exposed from the very start. His depiction is distinctive, his personality both likeable and mysterious, and he somehow manages to retain a compelling and enigmatic air which is incredibly enticing and most definitely leaves you wanting to find out more.
Although this is a Ferran novella, equal playtime is also given to his companions in arms. These characters are given their own third person perspective in which to engage the reader, and do so with great success. Hil and Riffolk, the two Magistrates of Greenhope, are much like the reader in this novella – they are the laymen, the ordinary folk who go by in life and don’t see the darkness at its edges – and as such, their narrative allows the reader to gain an equal footing from the start. It is characters such as these that truly connect the reader to the story.
A Reaper of Stone showcased skilled active description and fantastic worldbuilding – two aspects which might otherwise have been lost over so short a narrative – but Rend the Dark blew me away. Skilled characterisation is combined with an incredible ability to effectively convey the horrors of the Ruinsin this fast paced and thrilling tale. Gelineau and King most certainly know how to make an impression.
-
The Echoes of the Ascended are a wonderful blend of a fully contained and bite-sized narrative set against an open world where enough of the tale is left untold to make the reader keep coming back for more. I still find it hard to believe that so much can be packed into so short a read – and Rend the Dark certainly packed a punch. Do you have an hour or so to spare? Train journey? Lunch break? Gelineau and King have you covered. I cannot wait to get my hands on the next.
June 6, 2017
What a great short read.
Basically this follows Ferran as he and his partner, Mireia, track down a big bad. It’s a monster hunt.
While not much of the world is explored, I still found this story rich and full. We learn that there’s a bad place out there that the Order of Talan protects the world against. Ferran and Mireia are part of that Order, and they team up with a Warden and magistrate to eliminate a nasty thing from a village.
This was incredibly short, around 100 pages, so I don’t have tons to say. For a first story, this definitely did the job of pulling me into the world and characters. I’m interested, and I love monster hunting, so that part hooked me right away. The characters were a bit standard, but well done and interesting enough to keep me engaged and looking for the next book. Honestly, Ferran has a great history, a little sad, which pulled me in quickly. While we didn't’ learn Mireia’s backstory, she’s intriguing on her own, with a nifty power I’m not sure I quite understand yet.
The writing flowed nicely for me, and the pacing was great. It moved.
So if you’re looking for a quick, fun, engaging, and monster-y type book, pick this up. You can probably devour most of it on your lunch break. It’s a great start to a promising series.
Basically this follows Ferran as he and his partner, Mireia, track down a big bad. It’s a monster hunt.
While not much of the world is explored, I still found this story rich and full. We learn that there’s a bad place out there that the Order of Talan protects the world against. Ferran and Mireia are part of that Order, and they team up with a Warden and magistrate to eliminate a nasty thing from a village.
This was incredibly short, around 100 pages, so I don’t have tons to say. For a first story, this definitely did the job of pulling me into the world and characters. I’m interested, and I love monster hunting, so that part hooked me right away. The characters were a bit standard, but well done and interesting enough to keep me engaged and looking for the next book. Honestly, Ferran has a great history, a little sad, which pulled me in quickly. While we didn't’ learn Mireia’s backstory, she’s intriguing on her own, with a nifty power I’m not sure I quite understand yet.
The writing flowed nicely for me, and the pacing was great. It moved.
So if you’re looking for a quick, fun, engaging, and monster-y type book, pick this up. You can probably devour most of it on your lunch break. It’s a great start to a promising series.
February 26, 2016
https://koeur.wordpress.com/2016/02/2...
Publisher: King
Publishing Date: October 2015
ISBN:9781944015022
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 3.2/5
Publishers Description: The great Ruins are gone. The titans. The behemoths. All banished to the Dark and nearly forgotten. But the cunning ones, the patient ones remain. They hide not in the cracks of the earth or in the shadows of the world. But inside us. Wearing our skin. Waiting. Watching. Once haunted by visions of the world beyond, Ferran now wields that power to hunt the very monsters that he once feared. He is not alone. Others bear the same terrible burden. But Hunter or hunted, it makes no difference. Eventually, everything returns to the Dark.
Review: This review includes the next novella in the series, Skinshaper, as both novellas follow the same storyline and are short as heck. I am not a big fan of novellas due to obvious shortcomings in storyline development. Although truncated, these novellas deliver a good punch. I liked that the movement was constant and the characters grew in parallel. The world building is a bit limited but other novellas promise a slow reveal in that department. The “Ruins” lack a bit of descriptive detail so you have to stretch your own imagination in order to visualize. A good time coupled with a short read kind of makes me want more, but that’s the whole point???
Publisher: King
Publishing Date: October 2015
ISBN:9781944015022
Genre: Fantasy
Rating: 3.2/5
Publishers Description: The great Ruins are gone. The titans. The behemoths. All banished to the Dark and nearly forgotten. But the cunning ones, the patient ones remain. They hide not in the cracks of the earth or in the shadows of the world. But inside us. Wearing our skin. Waiting. Watching. Once haunted by visions of the world beyond, Ferran now wields that power to hunt the very monsters that he once feared. He is not alone. Others bear the same terrible burden. But Hunter or hunted, it makes no difference. Eventually, everything returns to the Dark.
Review: This review includes the next novella in the series, Skinshaper, as both novellas follow the same storyline and are short as heck. I am not a big fan of novellas due to obvious shortcomings in storyline development. Although truncated, these novellas deliver a good punch. I liked that the movement was constant and the characters grew in parallel. The world building is a bit limited but other novellas promise a slow reveal in that department. The “Ruins” lack a bit of descriptive detail so you have to stretch your own imagination in order to visualize. A good time coupled with a short read kind of makes me want more, but that’s the whole point???
January 13, 2016
Rend the Dark [Ferran 1] is the second novella in the Echo of the Ascended series by Mark Gelineau and Joe King.
On this occasion, the third person narrative introduces us to Ferran, and we immediately get a reminder of how Ferran is linked to Elinor, the heroine of the first instalment, A Reaper of Stone: they are both in the same orphanage as children. This means that we are visiting the realm of Aedaron.
Whereas Elinor, one of the King's Reapers, introduced us to ancient magic and terrifying monsters in the vein of the worms in Tremors, Ferran shows us a different aspect of Aedaron and draws us into a much darker world of ancient entities and sinister supernatural forces.
The human aspect is very strong, as is the sombre medieval feel, but with a light at the end of the tunnel as people pull together to defeat unseen forces. Once again we encounter a strong female figure in Mireia, Ferran's side-kick.
Atmospheric, fast-paced, engaging quick read, with a satisfying story and glimpses of Supernatural and King's IT. This is definitely a series I can get hooked on and look forward to month after month.
Note: this book also contains a preview of the next tale in the series: Best Left In The Shadows [Alys 1].
[ARC received from the author]
BooksChatter
On this occasion, the third person narrative introduces us to Ferran, and we immediately get a reminder of how Ferran is linked to Elinor, the heroine of the first instalment, A Reaper of Stone: they are both in the same orphanage as children. This means that we are visiting the realm of Aedaron.
Whereas Elinor, one of the King's Reapers, introduced us to ancient magic and terrifying monsters in the vein of the worms in Tremors, Ferran shows us a different aspect of Aedaron and draws us into a much darker world of ancient entities and sinister supernatural forces.
The human aspect is very strong, as is the sombre medieval feel, but with a light at the end of the tunnel as people pull together to defeat unseen forces. Once again we encounter a strong female figure in Mireia, Ferran's side-kick.
Atmospheric, fast-paced, engaging quick read, with a satisfying story and glimpses of Supernatural and King's IT. This is definitely a series I can get hooked on and look forward to month after month.
Note: this book also contains a preview of the next tale in the series: Best Left In The Shadows [Alys 1].
[ARC received from the author]
BooksChatter
February 23, 2016
Rend the Dark starts off with a slightly strange prologue—and then launches into a rich, well-done tale of fantasy and horror. The magic is unique, the evil the characters face is unusual (at least in my reading experience!), and the world-building is tidily woven into the meat of the story. The characters are diverse, cleverly sculpted, and appealing in their flaws. The pace is easily intense enough to keep the reader eagerly turning the pages. Gelineau and King have produced a first-class story that fits in a little bitty space.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley, and I’m glad I got to read it!
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley, and I’m glad I got to read it!
December 23, 2015
"Rend the Dark" is a high-suspense fantasy novella with a dark, monster theme and heroic characters. The suspense was built through ever-increasing danger and the character's reactions to facing the horror of the Ruins (demons, monsters). The world-building was worked naturally into the story so the reader understands what's going on without slowing down the action or breaking the tension.
The characters were developed enough that we can understand why each reacted to the situation the way they did. Their reactions differed and showed each as an individual. Though faced with a dangerous and overwhelming situation, they each find--in their own way--their courage and a reason to fight on.
There was no sex or bad language. There was some gore, but the sense of horror was conveyed more by the characters' reactions than by dwelling on gruesome descriptions. Overall, I'd recommend this quick read to fans of monster stories and darker-themed, high-suspense fantasy.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
The characters were developed enough that we can understand why each reacted to the situation the way they did. Their reactions differed and showed each as an individual. Though faced with a dangerous and overwhelming situation, they each find--in their own way--their courage and a reason to fight on.
There was no sex or bad language. There was some gore, but the sense of horror was conveyed more by the characters' reactions than by dwelling on gruesome descriptions. Overall, I'd recommend this quick read to fans of monster stories and darker-themed, high-suspense fantasy.
I received an ebook review copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Read
April 16, 2022An Intense Dark Fantasy That left me wanting more!
This story is enchanting, richly detailed, full of characters, filled with fighting scenes, packed with dark monsters, and thoroughly enjoyable!
Highly recommended for those who read: Stephen King, Barbara Hambly, Jim Butcher, to name but a few.
I'm definitely looking forward to the next in the series!
This story is enchanting, richly detailed, full of characters, filled with fighting scenes, packed with dark monsters, and thoroughly enjoyable!
Highly recommended for those who read: Stephen King, Barbara Hambly, Jim Butcher, to name but a few.
I'm definitely looking forward to the next in the series!
March 12, 2016
"The opposite of fear is not courage. We tell ourselves this, but it is a falsehood. Courage is merely a means to an end. No, the real opposite of fear is power."
Thank you, NetGalley for supplying me with this ARC! Really enjoyed this one!
These Novellas are something else! My God! Okay, so, I don't have any major complaints about this one, either. I enjoyed the movement of the plot! Everything seemed to make complete sense to the all the character's building, but also stayed true to the overall story. It was just amazing writing style and detailing! Very, very good! Where the other Novellas were more fantasy action, this one fed off of a more thriller/dark type of genre. It was just as captivating as the other two!
"He had seen things even then. Terrible things glimpsed at a distance, but clear enough to know there was darkness loose in this world that would prey upon all that was good. And no one else could see them. It was enough to drive him to the brink of madness."
New series, you get new characters!!And hopefully some type of crossover!!
I have to admit, this character was absolutely gripping. I adored every moment where we were in his POV. To me, his character felt older than he really was. More mature and beyond his years, which begs to question, what has he seen to make him this stone cold?
Okay, so we meet Farran in the Prologue of this Novella, as a small boy in an orphanage. Immediately you begin to feel soemthing for this character because, on the one hand, he is an orphan, on the other hand, he's an out-cast.
Ferran isn't liket he other kids at his orphanage. He can see things. Creatures. He sees these demons that stick to the shadows or the darkness that night brings. He is scared out of his mind. Nobody else can see these creatures, but him. As a child, you may begin to believe that, maybe, you really belong on the outside.
Then we get a plot jump to years later. We meet Ferran again as he is an acolyte (or witch hunter, same title but acolyte sounds way cooler) of the Order of Talan. He has now grown to become the man that people go to when they see things that can't be explained.
He sees them.
He knows how to kill them.
Kill them in a way so that they stay dead.
We also meet Hileon, the magister. His character is sort of meek and fragile in the way that Ferran isn't. His fears grip him so that nothing else can be thought up in his mind. All he sees are the potential threats, but doesn't know how to protect anyone from them.
We meet Hileon as he awaits the strangers that have come to his small and distant town to investigate something that cannot be explained, but he knows is killing everyone.
"Monsters are what your nana told you about to get you to set to your chores faster. these are the old woes, demons of broken night. The first Ruins."
Like I said, the writing style was just completely captivating to me, as a reader. The thing that I love most about these are the fact that they're so short, but that they are filled with everything that a regular novel is filled with. They're fast-paced, but not in a way where it feels rushed. I have absolutely no complaints whatsoever. Very well-written, very well-put-together. Loved it! ONTO THE NEXT ONE!
Thank you, NetGalley for supplying me with this ARC! Really enjoyed this one!
These Novellas are something else! My God! Okay, so, I don't have any major complaints about this one, either. I enjoyed the movement of the plot! Everything seemed to make complete sense to the all the character's building, but also stayed true to the overall story. It was just amazing writing style and detailing! Very, very good! Where the other Novellas were more fantasy action, this one fed off of a more thriller/dark type of genre. It was just as captivating as the other two!
"He had seen things even then. Terrible things glimpsed at a distance, but clear enough to know there was darkness loose in this world that would prey upon all that was good. And no one else could see them. It was enough to drive him to the brink of madness."
New series, you get new characters!!
I have to admit, this character was absolutely gripping. I adored every moment where we were in his POV. To me, his character felt older than he really was. More mature and beyond his years, which begs to question, what has he seen to make him this stone cold?
Okay, so we meet Farran in the Prologue of this Novella, as a small boy in an orphanage. Immediately you begin to feel soemthing for this character because, on the one hand, he is an orphan, on the other hand, he's an out-cast.
Ferran isn't liket he other kids at his orphanage. He can see things. Creatures. He sees these demons that stick to the shadows or the darkness that night brings. He is scared out of his mind. Nobody else can see these creatures, but him. As a child, you may begin to believe that, maybe, you really belong on the outside.
Then we get a plot jump to years later. We meet Ferran again as he is an acolyte (or witch hunter, same title but acolyte sounds way cooler) of the Order of Talan. He has now grown to become the man that people go to when they see things that can't be explained.
He sees them.
He knows how to kill them.
Kill them in a way so that they stay dead.
We also meet Hileon, the magister. His character is sort of meek and fragile in the way that Ferran isn't. His fears grip him so that nothing else can be thought up in his mind. All he sees are the potential threats, but doesn't know how to protect anyone from them.
We meet Hileon as he awaits the strangers that have come to his small and distant town to investigate something that cannot be explained, but he knows is killing everyone.
"Monsters are what your nana told you about to get you to set to your chores faster. these are the old woes, demons of broken night. The first Ruins."
Like I said, the writing style was just completely captivating to me, as a reader. The thing that I love most about these are the fact that they're so short, but that they are filled with everything that a regular novel is filled with. They're fast-paced, but not in a way where it feels rushed. I have absolutely no complaints whatsoever. Very well-written, very well-put-together. Loved it! ONTO THE NEXT ONE!
December 18, 2015
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for a chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review!
My review can also be found on our blog Paein and Ms4Tune
This book was amazing! I think I actually enjoyed this one more than A Reaper of Stone. How Mark Gelineau and Joe King have managed to fit so much into such a short book is beyond me! It was powerful and creepy and had me completely hooked!
Rend the Dark is the second novella in the series An Echo of the Ascended. This series follows different groups of characters on different quests across a fantasy world called Aedaron. I presume we will have some cross overs from time to time (fingers crossed). It reminds me of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series in that way, but this series is much darker, more like Grimm Fairytales mixed with epic fantasy, than satirical fantasy.
In this story we follow Ferran and Mireia who are from the Order of Talan, or ‘Witch Hunters’. They are among the few who can see through the illusions and see the darkness that is trying to consume everything. They fight the monsters that wear the faces of others! They have come to help The Warden Aker and two magistrates, Hil and Riffolk, to figure out why there are people disappearing from their region. But what they discover is worse than any nightmare.
This was wonderful. It gave me that wired feeling, and butterflies in my stomach, because I was that caught up in all the action. The whole story had this incredible medieval feel to it. It felt like a quest of the knights templar! The characters were yet again easy to relate too. I loved Hil and Mireia the most as they showed the most human emotions, fear, compassion and uncertainty. Ferran was a bit more cryptic but that was good, it made him seem mysterious and bold. It was all very exciting.
The paranormal aspect gave me chills. I can not tell you, and do justice to, how creepy it was! The setting and the creatures were described so vividly, I could imagine I was actually there! I will probably have nightmares for weeks.
This series really is just getting better and better. I’m going straight off to read book 3!
My review can also be found on our blog Paein and Ms4Tune
This book was amazing! I think I actually enjoyed this one more than A Reaper of Stone. How Mark Gelineau and Joe King have managed to fit so much into such a short book is beyond me! It was powerful and creepy and had me completely hooked!
Rend the Dark is the second novella in the series An Echo of the Ascended. This series follows different groups of characters on different quests across a fantasy world called Aedaron. I presume we will have some cross overs from time to time (fingers crossed). It reminds me of Terry Pratchett’s Discworld series in that way, but this series is much darker, more like Grimm Fairytales mixed with epic fantasy, than satirical fantasy.
In this story we follow Ferran and Mireia who are from the Order of Talan, or ‘Witch Hunters’. They are among the few who can see through the illusions and see the darkness that is trying to consume everything. They fight the monsters that wear the faces of others! They have come to help The Warden Aker and two magistrates, Hil and Riffolk, to figure out why there are people disappearing from their region. But what they discover is worse than any nightmare.
This was wonderful. It gave me that wired feeling, and butterflies in my stomach, because I was that caught up in all the action. The whole story had this incredible medieval feel to it. It felt like a quest of the knights templar! The characters were yet again easy to relate too. I loved Hil and Mireia the most as they showed the most human emotions, fear, compassion and uncertainty. Ferran was a bit more cryptic but that was good, it made him seem mysterious and bold. It was all very exciting.
The paranormal aspect gave me chills. I can not tell you, and do justice to, how creepy it was! The setting and the creatures were described so vividly, I could imagine I was actually there! I will probably have nightmares for weeks.
This series really is just getting better and better. I’m going straight off to read book 3!
April 2, 2016
Thank you to the author for a chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Publish date: 15th October 2015
Full review can also be found on: Paein and Ms4Tune’s Book Blog
I really enjoyed this introduction too. Though it's set in the same world as Elinor's A Reaper of Stone and Ferran even went to the same orphanage as Elinor - his part of the world seems a lot darker. While Elinor is all about believing in the old ways and holding up honour, Ferran is fighting off the horrid monsters that are hiding in plain sight, clawing at the world of Aedaron along with his fellow acolyte Mireia.
I have to say, the footmen type monsters in this made me think they were the nasty cousins of the Spidrens from Tamora Pierce's The Imortals quartet. And they weren't nice guys! I'd agree with that blurb up there, sounds like something you'd find in supernatural! And not one of those spoof episodes either.
Mostly this story seemed to be from Hil's point of view, a sort of outside character, one of those Ferran and Mireia had gone to assist. I'd have liked for it to have been from theirs, so that I could know more about the Order of Talan - but then I suppose this makes more sense. This novella/teaser is shorter than Elinors, were it to be solely from the point of view of Order members, a lot of time would need to be spent explaining their thoughts and it would have perhaps bulked it up far more than the desired teaser length, so I guess I'll just have to wait.
I'd like to know more about this monster fighting too- with the lantern and the song, but I'm guessing that's being saved for book 2; which is going to be called Skinshaper according to the end of this novella.
At this point, I'm wondering; are all these previews and series going to link into one giant finale? And Just when do we find out more about the time mentioned in the legend that's featured in both the books so far? Or is it just a throwaway foundation for these guys?
June 20, 2019
The story is essentially about the battle against dark forces. At the heart of it is Ferran, an orphan (like Elinor from A Reaper of Stone!) who grew up with the gift – or curse – of being able to see demons or monsters hiding in plain sight. His visions scared him when he was a child but when he joined the Order of Talan he turned that fear into power to fight and kill these demons. In the book, Ferran travels to Greenhope with Mireia, another member of the Order, to meet with Aker, warden of the king, and Riffolk and Hil, magistrates of Greenhope, to investigate strange troubles. They all band together to hunt and kill creatures of the dark before they wreak havoc and destroy the land.
Well, the authors weren’t wrong. Rend the Dark really is a good old-fashioned horror adventure with an exciting plot and strong characters that you would root for from beginning to end. Like A Reaper of Stone, Rend the Dark is very fast-paced and has an intriguing story that can really pull you in. Ferran is a hero any reader would love. I like that there’s also a strong female character, Mireia, in the mix. This book is a horror story and the authors didn’t shy away from horrific details, though they are nothing that horror fans can’t take. I’m partial to fantasies or horrors that are set in somewhat ‘olden’ or ‘medieval’ times so I really loved the overall feel or “ambiance” of this book.
I hate that this book is too short – I’m really big on backstories – but it’s a great start to a series and I can’t wait to read more.
I received a review copy of this book at no cost and with no obligations. All opinions expressed here are my own.
This review first appeared on White Sky Project.
Well, the authors weren’t wrong. Rend the Dark really is a good old-fashioned horror adventure with an exciting plot and strong characters that you would root for from beginning to end. Like A Reaper of Stone, Rend the Dark is very fast-paced and has an intriguing story that can really pull you in. Ferran is a hero any reader would love. I like that there’s also a strong female character, Mireia, in the mix. This book is a horror story and the authors didn’t shy away from horrific details, though they are nothing that horror fans can’t take. I’m partial to fantasies or horrors that are set in somewhat ‘olden’ or ‘medieval’ times so I really loved the overall feel or “ambiance” of this book.
I hate that this book is too short – I’m really big on backstories – but it’s a great start to a series and I can’t wait to read more.
I received a review copy of this book at no cost and with no obligations. All opinions expressed here are my own.
This review first appeared on White Sky Project.
February 18, 2016
I have never been a huge fan of short stories (aside from King and Chekhov) so I was not sure what I would think of this going in, but for the most part I really enjoyed it. I felt the book had the right mix of fantasy and horror elements that would satisfy a number of different readers. One thing I really enjoyed was how the horror moments were not blatant and in your face. They come on subtly and transition into full-blown horror, and then afterwards that aspect of horror always lingers in the back of your mind.
The author did a great job with giving the reader visuals about characters, creatures, and areas involved in the story. I am a huge fan of picturing everything I read in my head as a mini-movie, so I was really pleased with the graphic depictions given. A lot of action is packed into a limited number of pages and the story keeps you engaged and interested from page one, making this novella almost impossible to put down.
The unfortunate thing about this novella is I really think the story suffered from its short length. It was a rather complex story with intricate characters but due to the shortness so many things were rushed through and not much time at all was given to character development. I feel like the story could have benefitted from a little more length just so the pivotal moments were not done so quickly. As far as the lack of character development, since this novella is part of a series I am hopeful that we will learn more about the characters in the installments to come.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and felt like it did many things right, with a few small exceptions. I think this novella would please most fantasy and horror fans out there and I, for one, am looking forward to reading the rest of the series
The author did a great job with giving the reader visuals about characters, creatures, and areas involved in the story. I am a huge fan of picturing everything I read in my head as a mini-movie, so I was really pleased with the graphic depictions given. A lot of action is packed into a limited number of pages and the story keeps you engaged and interested from page one, making this novella almost impossible to put down.
The unfortunate thing about this novella is I really think the story suffered from its short length. It was a rather complex story with intricate characters but due to the shortness so many things were rushed through and not much time at all was given to character development. I feel like the story could have benefitted from a little more length just so the pivotal moments were not done so quickly. As far as the lack of character development, since this novella is part of a series I am hopeful that we will learn more about the characters in the installments to come.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and felt like it did many things right, with a few small exceptions. I think this novella would please most fantasy and horror fans out there and I, for one, am looking forward to reading the rest of the series
February 17, 2016
'Rend the Dark' began with a glimpse into the main character's past. I loved how the voice of 'the boy' was very distinct. Even the first simile was characterised by the boy's personal experience.
Personal aside: All too often, you come across phrases such as 'it hissed like an enraged rattlesnake'. Now while being effective, I find that the simile is far more powerful when it is framed by the protagonist's experience. It really makes their point of view feel more genuine.
In my opinion this novella was beautifully paced. After a brief foray into our protagonist Ferran's past, you are effectively introduced to a small cast of characters (one or two of whom also share their PoVs). Despite being a novella, each of these characters seemed, while not deeply explored, intriguing individuals. I particularly enjoyed reading from Hil's point of view. In a gory fantasy, it is quite refreshing to hear from a character that is neither inherently brave, skilled, malicious or cunning. Instead Hil is more of an everyday man and that really resonated with me.
Throughout the novella, the authors continued to expertly traverse the fine line between character development and action. I was also pleased to find that the action, while quite dark, had just the right amount of creative horror to shock but not sicken me. (I am a bit confused as to why this is listed as 'ya' by netgalley though...)
When I reached the end of the story I didn't feel cheated of a well rounded story (as is so often my experience of novellas). The tale came to a satisfying conclusion, in addition to leaving me keen to read the next in the series.
Disclaimer: I received this free book from netgalley. This in no way impacted on my review.
Personal aside: All too often, you come across phrases such as 'it hissed like an enraged rattlesnake'. Now while being effective, I find that the simile is far more powerful when it is framed by the protagonist's experience. It really makes their point of view feel more genuine.
In my opinion this novella was beautifully paced. After a brief foray into our protagonist Ferran's past, you are effectively introduced to a small cast of characters (one or two of whom also share their PoVs). Despite being a novella, each of these characters seemed, while not deeply explored, intriguing individuals. I particularly enjoyed reading from Hil's point of view. In a gory fantasy, it is quite refreshing to hear from a character that is neither inherently brave, skilled, malicious or cunning. Instead Hil is more of an everyday man and that really resonated with me.
Throughout the novella, the authors continued to expertly traverse the fine line between character development and action. I was also pleased to find that the action, while quite dark, had just the right amount of creative horror to shock but not sicken me. (I am a bit confused as to why this is listed as 'ya' by netgalley though...)
When I reached the end of the story I didn't feel cheated of a well rounded story (as is so often my experience of novellas). The tale came to a satisfying conclusion, in addition to leaving me keen to read the next in the series.
Disclaimer: I received this free book from netgalley. This in no way impacted on my review.
January 19, 2016
3.5 Stars
Read all my reviews on http://urlphantomhive.booklikes.com
This novella is part of The Echo of the Ascended a series with a concept that I'm really liking so far. Basically it is four different series, but they are all set in the same universe, I believe. There is a new novella every month. Rend the dark is the second one, after A Reaper of Stone.
Ferran is an orphan, who can feel/see the Ruins, monsters who once roamed the world, but are now mostly extinct. However, they may be hiding something even more sinister when Ferran and some others stumble upon a village with a very dark secret.
I really quite liked it. It was another very short story, but it didn't feel too rushed to be enjoyable. It feel rather like an episode of a tv series, and the books together will form the overlapping story. Ferran is an orphan, taken in by this mysterious sect/order that has certain powers and can see dark forces, which is not too original, I admit, but it was interesting enough for me to be looking forward to more. I'm really curious to see where this series is going from here.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Read all my reviews on http://urlphantomhive.booklikes.com
This novella is part of The Echo of the Ascended a series with a concept that I'm really liking so far. Basically it is four different series, but they are all set in the same universe, I believe. There is a new novella every month. Rend the dark is the second one, after A Reaper of Stone.
Ferran is an orphan, who can feel/see the Ruins, monsters who once roamed the world, but are now mostly extinct. However, they may be hiding something even more sinister when Ferran and some others stumble upon a village with a very dark secret.
I really quite liked it. It was another very short story, but it didn't feel too rushed to be enjoyable. It feel rather like an episode of a tv series, and the books together will form the overlapping story. Ferran is an orphan, taken in by this mysterious sect/order that has certain powers and can see dark forces, which is not too original, I admit, but it was interesting enough for me to be looking forward to more. I'm really curious to see where this series is going from here.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
January 28, 2016
'Rend the Dark' by Mark Gelineau and Joe King is a good beginning to an interesting story. You can read this 78 page novella and call it good or you can continue on.
In a prologue we meet a young boy named Ferran having a vision of his future, which will be fighting monsters. And how he will be linked to his future partner, Elinor. Then we skip to a village best by something strange. Ferran and Elinor have been summoned and they meet a young man named Riffolk and his friend Hil, and Warden Aker. They've been called because something evil has shown up, and it shows up in people, turning them into a sort of zombie. It's a sign of something bigger as Ferran and Elinor travel to a village which is on the verge of an outbreak.
I liked the setting and worldbuilding a lot. I found out later that this is part of a series of linked novellas. I'm reading one called 'Reaper of Stone' now which is about Elinor. I like what these authors are doing and I look forward to reading more.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Gelineau and King, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
In a prologue we meet a young boy named Ferran having a vision of his future, which will be fighting monsters. And how he will be linked to his future partner, Elinor. Then we skip to a village best by something strange. Ferran and Elinor have been summoned and they meet a young man named Riffolk and his friend Hil, and Warden Aker. They've been called because something evil has shown up, and it shows up in people, turning them into a sort of zombie. It's a sign of something bigger as Ferran and Elinor travel to a village which is on the verge of an outbreak.
I liked the setting and worldbuilding a lot. I found out later that this is part of a series of linked novellas. I'm reading one called 'Reaper of Stone' now which is about Elinor. I like what these authors are doing and I look forward to reading more.
I received a review copy of this ebook from Gelineau and King, and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for allowing me to review this ebook.
March 9, 2016
This is my second read from Gelineau & King and really I do enjoy them. This story for me was one I liked, but one I wouldn't overall rock back on my heels over. I found myself teetering on how to rate it because I really do enjoy them, but this one for me was just "ok."
The story itself is eerie which I love, mixed with the fantastical element to it, right up my alley! But for me this one seemed exceptionally short, just as I was getting hooked into the story it abruptly came to a close. A Reaper of Stone I thought ended properly, it closed the door but also left you wanting to read more of the world and from the authors. This novella had me definitely wanting more but left me feeling as though it were a touch rushed.
Still, I'll read anything these gents put out, because they're splendid individuals and amazing writers.
The story itself is eerie which I love, mixed with the fantastical element to it, right up my alley! But for me this one seemed exceptionally short, just as I was getting hooked into the story it abruptly came to a close. A Reaper of Stone I thought ended properly, it closed the door but also left you wanting to read more of the world and from the authors. This novella had me definitely wanting more but left me feeling as though it were a touch rushed.
Still, I'll read anything these gents put out, because they're splendid individuals and amazing writers.
February 19, 2016
This is my favourite out of all the Echoes' series. I love the darker stuff and this is no different.
Ferran, another orphan from the fabled orphanage-that-burned-down, was born with a rather nifty gift. Over the years the Ruins have been stealthfully returning, taking over the bodies of unsuspecting villagers and hiding in plain site. Ferran can see them, a rare blessing that gets him a place in the Order of Talan, an order dedicated to defending ordinary lives from the Ruin's threat.
The more I read from these authors the more I enjoy their work. From each little book you get a unique sight into this world. I read somewhere (can't remember where) that novella's are the future of literature, if they are well done like these the future is safe.
*I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Ferran, another orphan from the fabled orphanage-that-burned-down, was born with a rather nifty gift. Over the years the Ruins have been stealthfully returning, taking over the bodies of unsuspecting villagers and hiding in plain site. Ferran can see them, a rare blessing that gets him a place in the Order of Talan, an order dedicated to defending ordinary lives from the Ruin's threat.
The more I read from these authors the more I enjoy their work. From each little book you get a unique sight into this world. I read somewhere (can't remember where) that novella's are the future of literature, if they are well done like these the future is safe.
*I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2015
Wow. This is an awesomely dark and scary world these writers have created. I love their use of runes and tattoos. Children with Sight and adults who no longer believe. It's a world I will enjoy visiting, for certain, but I can't really say I would want to live there, any more than I would really want to live on a Hellmouth no matter how much fun Buffy and the gang seem to be having! Not that this book is anything remotely like that. No, this is awesome darkness. More along the lines of Lovecraft and Poe.
As an independent reviewer of Paranormal Romance and Authors that rock, I give this one five fangs for great scary beasts and well written characters.
As an independent reviewer of Paranormal Romance and Authors that rock, I give this one five fangs for great scary beasts and well written characters.
December 24, 2015
Rend the Dark by Mark Gelineau and Joe King is the third novella in the An Echo of the Ascended series that I have read.
Each of these novellas can either be read as part of the whole or as a stand alone read. And has a completely different feel from the other two. But just as enthralling.
I received this copy of Rend the Dark by Mark Gelineau and Joe King from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Each of these novellas can either be read as part of the whole or as a stand alone read. And has a completely different feel from the other two. But just as enthralling.
I received this copy of Rend the Dark by Mark Gelineau and Joe King from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
November 30, 2015
Where to begin? Another action packed, heart wrenching, beautifully written novella from Gelineau and King. The characters are all so engaging and the world that is created is fascinating. Every time I finish one, I eagerly wait for the next. If you are a fan of fantasy fiction, you must read this series!
February 15, 2017
Really enjoyed this novella. Full review over here: https://rickusbookshelf.wordpress.com...
February 15, 2020
Okay I'm hooked I need more of this frightening world with sinister evil beings called Ruins. The thing with fantasy is that there is usually a well drawn line between Good vs Evil/Heroes vs Monsters which sometimes gets a little tiresome and flat as the Evil is sooooo evil and the good is soooo good. I only find that this works when the good is not wholesome, I want rough around the edges, mystery and tough female and male characters with an interesting back story which this little gem has. Although this is the first book in the series for Rend the Dark I've since found out its the second book in a wider series of smaller series. If you like your fantasy on the darker side add it to your TBR pile.
August 19, 2017
I want to thank NetGalley, Gelineau and King, Mark Gelineau and Joe King for an advanced copy of Rend the Dark for an honest review.
A nice blend of horror and fantasy all in a novella. Ferran and Mireia from the Order of Talan are among the few who can see through the illusions of the Ruins who wear the faces of others. A short read, but the authors pack a lot of detail into the sliver of this creepy world we are shown. I really enjoyed Rend the Dark and am on to the next book in the series Skinshaper.
A nice blend of horror and fantasy all in a novella. Ferran and Mireia from the Order of Talan are among the few who can see through the illusions of the Ruins who wear the faces of others. A short read, but the authors pack a lot of detail into the sliver of this creepy world we are shown. I really enjoyed Rend the Dark and am on to the next book in the series Skinshaper.
July 25, 2017
Short story
This short story had a different take to demons with a few errors. It was a little hard to follow the plot and characters but finally came together after a few pages. I look forward to reading more by the author.
This short story had a different take to demons with a few errors. It was a little hard to follow the plot and characters but finally came together after a few pages. I look forward to reading more by the author.
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