Tears for Hesh

Beyond the Veil

by J. Michael Radcliffe

Tears for Hesh is a short story of approximately 3,200 words. Set in the world of The Guardian's Apprentice, this is the story of Hesh, a young man who works for a coniving, power-hungry wizard who will stop at nothing to get what he wants. Hesh is a gentle giant, towering above others, but soft spoken and afflicted with a stammer when he gets nervous. Sent on an errand for his master, he ucovers a terrible secret and must face the consequences.

Genres: Fantasy, Short Stories

11 pages, ebook

First published December 5, 2010

About the author

An avid reader of science fiction and fantasy novels all my life, I began writing The Guardian's Apprentice in 2002. After eight years of on-again, off-again writing, I finally published my first novel in August 2010. I live in rural Kentucky with my family and our six feline companions. When not acquiring recruits for my wife's ever growing cat army (which are terribly hard to train, by the way), I enjoy spinning stories out of the wisps of magic around me.

Visit me online at:

http://michaelradcliffe.wordpress.com
http://www.theguardiansapprentice.com

Reviews

[Opal · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an eloquent short story about a very sensitive giant. It was too short in my opinion, but it was well done. In a very short time you’re able to get the measure of Hesh and his sweet character.

For all it’s brevity, the story managed to convey a lot of emotion and a depth of feeling that a lot of full-fledged novels miss. I only wish that the ending hadn’t been so tragic.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this story. It's an entertaining fantasy tale, containing wizards, magic, curses, and spells. Hesh is a likeable character and I felt compassion for him. Well written with a tragic twist.

[Jess headland · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was very suprised on how much i liked this story it had a good layout and a good twist at the end

[Fiona (Titch) Hunt · Rating 4 out of 5]

More Magic & Wizardry in another great excerpt from the talented Mr Radcliffe. What a lovely, but sad story.

[Lynxie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a fun little introduction to J. Michael Radcliffe’s writing style and world he’s created in his Beyond The Veil series.

The writing is clean and crisp, with some lovely little poetic flourishes thrown in.

As this was a short story, world building is sparse, but enough was added to ground the reader into the world before moving along at a quick pace with Hesh and his cruel Master.

I will absolutely read more by this author. If you enjoy magic and mayhem with an easy to read voice, this one is for you.

[Julie Powell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good well-written fantasy story, yet disturbing, too.

It's not easy to say much because I don't give spoilers, but will say that I do enjoy this author's eye for detail in his stories, which brings great depth, realism and sense of place.

Love the magic as always.