Hellmouth

Giles Kristian

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Who Would Like This Book:

This novella is an absolute treat for fans of dark, atmospheric reads where historical fiction collides with horror and a dash of the supernatural. Set against a vividly grim medieval backdrop, "Hellmouth" delivers tightly wound suspense, brutal action, and haunting imagery in under 60 pages. Giles Kristian's conflicted, battle-weary knight Galien, along with his equally compelling crew, make for an intense band of characters you'll love and hate in equal measure. If you enjoyed "Between Two Fires," crave Dark Souls/Bloodborne vibes, or want a chilling one-sitting read bursting with dread, this one's for you. Bonus - listeners rave about the fantastic audiobook narration!

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers felt the novella was just too short - many wanted more backstory for side characters and a longer, more developed ending. The fast-paced finale left a few wishing for a bit more closure or depth. Also, if you aren’t a fan of body horror, psychological terror, or present-tense narration, you might find this story less enjoyable. Plus, those preferring pure historical fiction without horror or supernatural twists may not vibe with the direction this novella takes.

Grim, gripping, and gruesomely atmospheric - "Hellmouth" is a bite-sized blast of historical horror that packs a punch. Perfect for fans of dark fantasy or horror looking for a quick, unforgettable medieval nightmare.

About:

The novella "Hellmouth" by Giles Kristian follows Galien, an excommunicated knight leading a band of mercenaries in the Holy Roman Empire as they are hired by Cardinal Cesarini to hunt a heretic. However, their mission takes a dark turn as they find themselves entangled in a supernatural horror story that challenges their beliefs and confronts them with their own sins and violence. The writing style is described as evocative, filled with vivid imagery, creeping dread, black humor, and quality horror, all set against a medieval backdrop in the Czech Republic wilderness.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, with Galien as a conflicted protagonist, supported by memorable figures that reflect various traits and idiosyncrasies.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by evocative prose, with vivid imagery and a captivating narrative voice, combining historical and horror elements effectively.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on Galien, an excommunicated knight leading a band of mercenaries in late medieval Bohemia on a quest for a heretic, blending action with supernatural horror.

Setting:

The setting is in late middle ages Bohemia, featuring a mysterious castle and an eerie atmosphere that enhances the story's horror elements.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally fast and gripping, efficiently building suspense, though some felt the beginning could have been tighter.

Notes:

Set in late 1300s Bohemia, Hellmouth tells the story of Galien, an outcast knight.

Galien leads a band of mercenaries working for the Catholic Church.

He blames God for his excommunication and violent life.

Galien's character is deeply conflicted, showcasing both loyalty and brutality.

The novella features a diverse cast of characters, each with unique traits.

Cardinal Cesarini, a cunning character, hires Galien to hunt a heretic.

The story contains elements of historical fiction, horror, and dark fantasy.

Hellmouth is inspired by Houska Castle, known for its haunting legends.

The novella is only 48-52 pages, yet delivers a complete and engaging narrative.

The atmosphere is unnerving, with vivid imagery and creeping dread throughout.

The audiobook narration by Phillip Stevens has been highly praised.

Readers find it gripping and suitable for reading in one sitting.

The story contains themes of sin and redemption amid supernatural horrors.

The ending has received mixed reviews, with some finding it rushed.

Hellmouth has been compared to other medieval horror works, notably Between Two Fires.

The prose is described as lyrical and strikingly beautiful.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include graphic violence, body horror, and themes of psychological terror.

From The Publisher:

Bohemia. 1370. A lost soul named Galien leads a band of hardened mercenaries on a mission for Mother Church. But in the dark forests of central Europe, a darker secret awaits. Bestselling author Giles Kristian (Lancelot, The Raven Viking Trilogy) takes us on an unnerving ride into fear and paranoia, bloodshed and redemption.

Ratings (3)

Loved It (1)
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Reader Stats (15):

Read It (3)
Want To Read (12)

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