As Ferrin Grey returned home from the horrors of war, his people hailed him a hero while the ghosts of his sins screamed monster. Now he is dying, infected with an unknown disease that eats him away little by little, piece by piece. Karmic retribution for his grisly acts of war. When the ruler of a foreign nation unleashes a terrifying beast in Ferrin’s homeland, he finds himself thrust back into a world he was so desperate to leave behind. To end this nightmare, he must kill both creature and king but ill omens warn him of the future as demons resurface from his past, turning the hunter into the hunted. And if these monsters were to catch this rotting soldier, then death will be the least of his troubles.
Rachel Pendley (she/her) is an American author from the rural south, who loves to blend together her favorite genres. Most of her work has a horror flare, having grown up on the works of Stephen King, Charles Grant, S.D. Perry and Dean Koontz.
Rachel Pendley has written a show-stopping horror fantasy that will leave you desperate for more while absolutely terrified of what comes next.
I don't know where to start singing this book's praises. The atmosphere that Rachel built oozes from every sentence. Out the gate the storm arrives and then never really leaves us. Like a week of not-quite-rain that crushes your soul so slowly that, by the time you notice, it's already too late. Water is a theme here and Rachel uses it perfectly. The world is wet. Rain and fog and swamps and creeks, wells and puddles, it's everywhere, saturating everything, and if that doesn't build atmosphere on it's own she goes and turns this water *dangerous*. It's such an ingenious move because we know from the beginning what the water harbors.
But then you have these CHARACTERS who steal your heart! It's such a perfect juxtaposition because all the light in this book is centered on these people I fell in immediate love with. Ferrin is a freaking hot mess of a MC with so much trauma he doesn't know what to do with other than let it slowly kill him, and that's only if his slow-wasting disease doesn't get to him first. Then there's Canius, who reads like your typical tsundere but then your whole understanding of her gets torn apart around 60% of the way into the book.
Uhg. The reveals in this book and how the author handles them are SO GREAT.
While this is only book 1 and the broader lore of the world has only begun to be hinted at, there's a subtlety to the magic in TLTF that I really appreciate. It feels appropriately raw and off-limits and every instance we get of the more fantastical is pure horror. I can't wait to meet our main villain because he/it/they already has me so uncomfortable. The horror in this book truly is the stuff of nightmares, all without being overtly gruesome or violent (not to say there aren't gruesome or horrifying parts, they're just used sparingly and at the perfect moments).
And all that to not even say anything about Rachel Pendley's prose. This book is effortlessly lyrical and a breeze to read, which feels like a crazy combination but just trust me. It's beautiful. It's simple. It's first person POV which I normally hate BUT I LOVE IT. I love this whole damn book. LOVED IT. This is fantasy horror at its finest!!
Through Legend They Fall by Rachel Pendley is a captivating blend of fantasy and horror that gripped me from the first page. I devoured this book in just a couple of days, and each time I had to take a break, I couldn't wait to dive back into its dark and thrilling world.
The characters are well developed, each with their unique complexities and depth. Ferrin Grey's journey from a war hero, haunted by the ghosts of his past sins, to a man on a mission to save his homeland, is both heart-wrenching and inspiring. The internal and external battles he faces are portrayed with such raw emotion that I found myself deeply invested in his fate.
Equie is a standout character, a bubbly and sweet ray of sunshine amidst the darkness. Her presence brings a touch of warmth and hope, providing a perfect balance to the intense and often grim narrative. The bond between the characters adds a layer of emotional depth that makes their struggles and triumphs all the more poignant.
The creatures that inhabit this world are wild and terrifying, and I relished every moment of action and gore. The way the author intertwines the elements of horror with the fantasy setting creates an atmosphere that is both mesmerizing and chilling.
The plot is riveting, as Ferrin battles not only the monstrous beast unleashed in his homeland but also the demons of his past. He is dying, infected with an unknown disease that eats him away little by little, piece by piece. The sense of foreboding and the relentless pace kept me on the edge of my seat, eager to see how Ferrin would navigate the treacherous path laid before him. The stakes are high, and the tension is palpable as the hunter becomes the hunted.
Through Legend They Fall is a book worth checking out for fans of dark fantasy and horror. Rachel Pendley has crafted a tale that is as emotionally resonant as it is thrilling, filled with well-drawn characters, a richly imagined world, and non-stop action. This book is an unforgettable journey that I can't recommend highly enough.
Perfect book for Spooky Season! This was such a fun monster horror story. I highly recommend going into it blind. This one had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what happened next.
And that cliffhanger!! Why is the next book not already in my hands?
YOUR NEXT BINGE READ! I’m not exaggerating when I say this book is a 5 star read, through and through. It deserves to be appreciated by any and all fans of the darker variety of fantasy.
Our FMC gives hardcore Vulcan vibes (iykyk & if you don’t PLEASE do yourself a favor and watch any older Star Trek show!), our MMC is experiencing mental health struggles and it materializes as him acting like a cynical grump (relatable lol). Honestly, I never read books with a straight main male character as the lead—barring my husband, I am not a fan of hetero men. But this author did such an impeccable job of convincing me from page 1 that there was more to this cis masc mfer than the impudent ego I’ve become accustomed to. The side characters deserve their own honorable mentions; they’re perfectly flushed out and I love them all. They bring such a balanced concoction of levity while actively contributing to the storyline.
The writing is top tier—if Rachel had lived and written this book in the 1690s, they’d have condemned her as a witch for being so meticulously apt at weaving the written language into art. I’m so enthralled by this story, these characters, and the magical level of suspense, creep, and intrigue that I experienced while reading it.
This is a gruesome fantasy world where a war has been won and our MMC is now mentally suffering from what he did to earn himself such an esteemed war hero title. As he’s trying to hermit-hole himself into nonexistence, he’s charged with a quest that he essentially can’t turn down. Thus ensuing an arduous and thrilling ride across the realm where the carpet is pulled out from under the reader’s feet in the most ghastly of ways (I fuckin loved it). You can try to stay on your toes for this one, but you’ll be rocked regardless. You’re welcome <3
Lastly, can anyone help me pick my jaw up off the floor from the twists and turns this fuckin book dragged me through???
A thoroughly enjoyable, beautifully written, horror fantasy novel. It ticked off all the boxes that FOR ME make a great story.
*well-developed, wounded yet earnest, endearing yet frustrating and heartbreakingly real characters
*low fantasy with understandable world-building
*found family on a quest
*truly terrifying enemy
There are passages in the novel that were breathtaking. That made me stop and gasp and re-read because I was so taken aback by the lovely turn of phrase.
If you are a fan of Joe Abercrombie’s First Law series, or Tolkien’s LOTR or Christopher Buehlman’s Blacktongue Thief and its prequel Daughters War, then you will LOVE this book.
This book literally decked me in the face at the end of the prologue. Then it hit me in the back of the head with a fucking chair at the ending. So if you like books that are going to beat the shit out of and surprise you you’re gonna love this book. The vibes of this book are immaculate! If you’re looking for something dark and foreboding with lots of action and great camaraderie you’re going to love this book! I loved the MMC a lot I think he’s an onion boy in the sense that there are alot of layers to him. But these side characters steal the damned show! Through Legend They Fall is available to purchase and also read now with Kindle Unlimited!
Ferrin, a legendary soldier, known across the lands as the slayer of kings, is haunted by the ghostly shadows and curses that follow in the wake of his destruction.
Heavy is the weight of his conscience when he is summoned from his sequestered life to embark yet again on a journey for his aunt, the Queen Loria, who has sent a darkly mysterious woman to fetch him.
Through Legend They Fall will ignite your imagination and fears while begging the question: what makes a legend? A hero or a monster?
This one took me a little to get into at first, but once I was in, I was HOOKED. Grew to love Ferrin and especially Equie (Ek-wee) as well as the others. Really enjoyed Canius’ character. Very interesting ideas and world here, though it is definitely a heavier read and darker world. There is a lot of prejudice and emotional wounds from the semi-recent war. So this is not a light read and the MC has demons, but it was such an enjoyable read. I think Equie’s character was an excellent balance to the grim reality of this world.
Content warnings, just as a heads up: Minor swearing Child death (on and off page) Violence Panic attacks and Post-Traumatic Stress References to beastiality and necromancy
This is one of the best debut titles I’ve read in AGES. If I could I would give it far more than just the standard 5 stars! If you’re looking for a book that leaves you slack jawed and begging for more, that fills you with adrenaline and gripping your book unable to put it down, then this is the read for you.
It has it all from fantasy to horror to found family with a dark mmc and ruthless mfc!
I'll start this review by saying that normally I don't read horror books. they just usually aren't my jam. but this book? this is the perfect blend of fantasy and horror with a dash of snark.
Rachel Pendley built a world in this book that pulls you in from the very beginning, right from the carrots. iykyk. she built characters that are flawed almost to the point of being unredeemable (is that even a word) but you still love them, you still root for them, you still want them to be better.
there's magic but in the strangest ways, there's creatures that will chill you to the bone, there's intrigue, and there's an adorable owl sidekick that I just want to snuggle.
it does end on a cliffhanger, but its worth it. Holy goddess it is worth it! and the twists and turns along the way, the full on SHOCK I felt at some of the reveals.... im obsessed and cannot wait to dive into book 2.
This book pulls you in from the moment you start reading it! She sets the entire scene of the story in the opening chapter! It’s not predictable and you’re left holding on to your emotions wondering what’s going to happen next. I absolutely loved it! I would love nothing more than to see this projected onto a movie screen and brought to life!
Easily... EASILY ... the best book I've ever read. I'm talking both self pub and traditional. It's horrific, it's beautiful, the pace is perfect, the word choice both strong and poetic, and the the characters divinely flawed and complex!
Ok this is one of those books that if I say too much it will definitely spoil things. I don’t want to spoil things, I want you to read the book!
This is a great monster horror story. Our mmc Ferrin is dealing with the monsters of his past during war, and the monster stalking him and his group on their journey. So many reveals happen!!
I was on the edge of my seat the whole story. Pendley does an amazing job at the horrific descriptions that make me want to look away but still peek between my fingers.
If you are a fantasy lover but want some horror for the spooky season you can read this book today! I can’t wait for book 2!!!
I haven't picked up a fantasy book in a LONG time because I was tired of long unpronounceable names, thousand year long histories that I didn't remember five pages after reading it, and having to keep track of 50 different characters.
This was a a refreshing reintroduction to what used to be my favorite genre and I'm so happy I picked it up. Ferrin is a complicated and believable character who doesn't draw bravado from his war years, but instead deals with a multitude of issues that bleed into his interactions with everyone he comes across.
His group of compatriots were lovable and had very distinct personalities which made it easy to keep track of them. The lore is consistent and the world is large but not unbearably so.
I did find Carnage to be insufferable for most of the book
Rachel Pendleys "Through Legend They Fall" completely consumed me. Absolutely had me in its thrall. I could not put it down. Captivating the imagination is an understatement. Story building at its finest and character development was gripping and at times heart breaking. I don't want to give to much away because book 2 is about to be released. So many twist and turns with fantastical elements of surprise that you will never see coming. Dark fantasy and horror is a favorite of mine, so this book of a leader and a rag tag band of soldiers sent on a terrifying quest with shocking twists in a world filled with so much fear and malice that it permeates the very air they breathe is exceptional.
I really wanted to like this book. The concept of it was super cool and I enjoyed some of the tension that was being set up in the early pages. I enjoyed the world building as well. Rachel did a fantastic job of setting up this post war world, where the gloom and the element of water really drove home the tone of story and dark, grey imagery which was great for the monsters and horror elements.
But in the end, my biggest issues were the characters and the actual story line. Ferrin Grey was potentially a cool character but was never given the pages to full develop along with all side characters. The author could have spent some time on flashbacks of his past life, deeper and more darker past to help us relate to Ferrin. The same with the side characters. Even the relationship between all the characters felt rushed and forced, with very little to show how they form their bond and how they were important in the overall story. I think the only character I was truly intrigued about was Canius. Carthage was pathetically comical at best.
The story was also very slow, with one major fight scene that was sort of mid and there wasn’t that build up of tension and horror I was looking for. The story was a bit bland.
I will say that I think Rachel is a talented writer and I did enjoy her style of writing and I really hope she continues to develop her skill and style. I wish this book came out in the peak of her writing career because I think it does have the framework of being a great story.
This books reads like a horror film with a timeless quality, easily could be a cult classic.
The hair-raising descriptions of monsters, terrible in the best conceivable way, left me fully immersed with goosebumps and moments where I was utterly speechless. Ferrin’s battles are not just with the creatures ravaging his homeland; he also faces the shadows of his past and an illness slowly eating him away. Pendley’s portrayal of Ferrin’s mental health struggle is outstanding, revealing a character fighting not only external monsters but the added struggle of personal torment of his inner demons. This mental health representation expands his character into a more real, 3-dimensional individual. This is a welcome attribute of this book which is rarely illustrated. Everywhere you look, something haunts the pages. The constant sense of dread kept me hooked, I was anxiously following Ferrin, Equine, Carnage, and the rest of the characters every step of their journey. The terrifying water monsters were the worst for me; if I wasn’t already wary of swamps and marshes, I certainly am now!
If you’re looking for a horrifying dark fantasy thriller, brimming with gut-wrenching tension, this is one you’ll want to read now.
This horror fantasy was a genre I have grown to love. The characters were wild but human. They all had to deal with various forms of discrimination. Ferrin had a recurring nightmare but could not figure out who was the entity chasing him. I felt sorry for Ferrin because war had brought such depression in his life. Some people saw him as a hero but he only saw a murderer. He was forced into service to the Queen due to his military reputation and was not happy about what she was asking him to perform. Then he met his companions and was equally angered. The author created such an extraordinary story of learning to accept others, assessing people on more than the stereotype and facing dangerous missions while learning to work as a team. The book left the reader on a cliffhanger that decides the story must go on..
Really enjoyed this book! I'm not typically a fantasy reader, but I found myself very invested in the storyline and characters. I particularly enjoyed the character growth between Ferrin and his travel companions, Equie especially. I really appreciated that their relationship remained playful and platonic and that he was able to see her without predjudice after realizing that he could trust her. Speaking of trust- the ending, wow! I never saw that coming! I can't wait to see what happens in the next book and how they get out of the pickle they found themselves in on the last page.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
A compulsively readable epic fantasy, kind of like Dragons Age meets the Witcher, Through Legends They Fall feels like reading Terry Brooks or R A Salvatore new again for the first time. All the best parts of 80s epic fantasy, with a modern flare. I especially appreciated the unflinching depiction of war's emotional cost and how a hero to one group can be a monster to another. Really enjoyed it and looking forward to the sequel!
Loved the characters in this! Ferrin, Canius, Equie, and of course Carnage. The world building and grimness of Ferrin's life as a warrior is bleak. His working through it while finding friendship in Outlanders was very well done. The monsters are unique as well.
This book blew me away! Amazing world building, well developed characters, and a plot I was drawn into. The creatures in this tale were horrifying keeping me on the edge of my seat. Pendley creates morally grey characters I can believe in. Cannot wait to read more from this author!
A gripping story of what happens after the hero comes home, and the demons they gain from war that never leave them. Pendley’s prose is vivid and gory in the best way, and her storytelling is like that of a true Grimm fairytale, keeping me reading for far too long! It’s the perfect combination of fantasy and horror.
Through Legend They Fall grabs you by the throat and doesn’t let go.