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Codex Sohrakia: The Gifted Dark
Winner of the 2024 Independent Author Awards & Outstanding Creator Awards for Best Novel in the Fantasy category.
“Codex Sohrakia is outstanding. The prose is poetic, at times reminiscent of an Epic... If you enjoy immense world-building, questions of morality, mythology, and strange-yet-endearing creatures of darkness, this story is very much for you.” —Phantasmagoria Magazine
“[Codex Sohrakia] does a great job of pulling you in from the onset. It does an even better job of holding your attention until the very end. Fans of dark fantasy fiction will love it.” —Reader’s Favorite
“A modern-day Paradise Lost.” —Sixdoom Literary
What happens when blind faith leads to catastrophic choices? Saham, an Eternal Seraphon, is cast out of The Realm of Light, banished for his reckless tampering with The Dark. His actions rip through reality itself, unleashing chaos. Driven by an obsessive quest for redemption, Saham drags those he loves most into a spiral of pain and destruction, forever altering their fates—and his own.
Codex Sohrakia: The Gifted Dark is a mesmerizing, haunting tale that readers describe as dreamlike, profound, and unforgettable. Crafted in an epic, poetic style, this novel sweeps you into a world of endearing characters and surreal realms that linger long after the final page. Its atmosphere and intensity draw comparisons to the eerie genius of H.P. Lovecraft and Brian Lumley, the dark imagination of Clive Barker’s Imajica, and the timeless depth of Dante’s Divine Comedy.
Dive into this captivating story in its beautifully written form—or lose yourself in the award-winning audiobook, brought to life by the mesmerizing narration of vocal virtuoso Joshua Saxon.
“Codex Sohrakia is outstanding. The prose is poetic, at times reminiscent of an Epic... If you enjoy immense world-building, questions of morality, mythology, and strange-yet-endearing creatures of darkness, this story is very much for you.” —Phantasmagoria Magazine
“[Codex Sohrakia] does a great job of pulling you in from the onset. It does an even better job of holding your attention until the very end. Fans of dark fantasy fiction will love it.” —Reader’s Favorite
“A modern-day Paradise Lost.” —Sixdoom Literary
What happens when blind faith leads to catastrophic choices? Saham, an Eternal Seraphon, is cast out of The Realm of Light, banished for his reckless tampering with The Dark. His actions rip through reality itself, unleashing chaos. Driven by an obsessive quest for redemption, Saham drags those he loves most into a spiral of pain and destruction, forever altering their fates—and his own.
Codex Sohrakia: The Gifted Dark is a mesmerizing, haunting tale that readers describe as dreamlike, profound, and unforgettable. Crafted in an epic, poetic style, this novel sweeps you into a world of endearing characters and surreal realms that linger long after the final page. Its atmosphere and intensity draw comparisons to the eerie genius of H.P. Lovecraft and Brian Lumley, the dark imagination of Clive Barker’s Imajica, and the timeless depth of Dante’s Divine Comedy.
Dive into this captivating story in its beautifully written form—or lose yourself in the award-winning audiobook, brought to life by the mesmerizing narration of vocal virtuoso Joshua Saxon.
397 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2023
6 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
KM Taylor
4 books37 followersI am an artist, a long-time writer, and new author. My debut novel, Codex Sohrakia: The Gifted Dark, is receiving rave reviews and my second novel, The Devil’s Conquest, is currently available free to read via Kindle Unlimited, or as soft or hardcover.
The genres I gravitate to are usually horror, fantasy, and the supernatural. I enjoy period dramas as well. I've written in many genres over the years and I plan to take the best of those stories and prepare them for publication over time.
The genres I gravitate to are usually horror, fantasy, and the supernatural. I enjoy period dramas as well. I've written in many genres over the years and I plan to take the best of those stories and prepare them for publication over time.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
May 2, 2024
What a wonderful story
As a first time reader to dark fantasy I wasn't to sure what I'd make of the genre. By the time I was halfway down the page I was absolutely engrossed, all the way to the end. The poetic and rhythmic writing style that the Author possesses, coupled with her excellent descriptive approach really had me visualising the whole story, even when I didn't have the book open. What was of particular note was her ability to shape and build a plausible world in which her story is set, making it even more enjoyable. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves, or is looking to explore the world of dark fantasy, and for young adults upwards. If Amazon had a 6th star this brilliant piece of literature, which may I add reminded me of elements of Dantes 'Divine Comedy', would get it. Great job and I can't wait to see where you go with Chapter 2 (those who know, know). I'm now in the KM Taylor fan club 😁
As a first time reader to dark fantasy I wasn't to sure what I'd make of the genre. By the time I was halfway down the page I was absolutely engrossed, all the way to the end. The poetic and rhythmic writing style that the Author possesses, coupled with her excellent descriptive approach really had me visualising the whole story, even when I didn't have the book open. What was of particular note was her ability to shape and build a plausible world in which her story is set, making it even more enjoyable. I would recommend this book to anyone who loves, or is looking to explore the world of dark fantasy, and for young adults upwards. If Amazon had a 6th star this brilliant piece of literature, which may I add reminded me of elements of Dantes 'Divine Comedy', would get it. Great job and I can't wait to see where you go with Chapter 2 (those who know, know). I'm now in the KM Taylor fan club 😁
November 7, 2024
Good and evil. Light and dark. It's all very black and white, kept far apart by thick lines, right? Wrong. And this book takes a deep dive into the ventures and accomplishments, trials and failures of both. The story is well-paced, constantly driving forward to reveal more of the story while giving us beautiful and flawed characters to fall in love with. The prose is intelligent and beautiful without being over-done and it is understandable. It was easy to tell that the author put their heart and soul into every page and with that came a wonderful story and enjoyable, thought-provoking tale.
March 27, 2024
A tale as old as time. What is good, what is evil? Codex Sohrakia is a fantastic novel, beautifully written. The world building by KM Taylor is well crafted and excellently described. I found myself questioning Saham’a’iel who reads to me as a sort of god figure within the story. All power and regal. In my opinion he is the best character in the book! The Immortal Realms are an interesting concept and for anyone who likes a different sort of fantasy, this is definitely worth a read.
The themes explored within Codex Sohrakia can have a deeper meaning than just beyond the dark and the light.
The themes explored within Codex Sohrakia can have a deeper meaning than just beyond the dark and the light.
October 20, 2025
"In the beginning, was The Dark and The Dark was matter, and The Dark was chaos…”
In an ocean of mediocre fantasy books, finding titles that are original, fresh, and exciting can be quite a challenge. What I am presenting to you today is a rare gem, as author KM Taylor has created one of the most sensational dark fantasy narratives of the decade.
Codex Sohrakia is a novel that sets itself apart from the rest, and for various reasons. The end result is quite astounding and I am confident it will leave readers in awe long after reading its last page.
INSPIRATION
How does such a uniquely written story come to life? According to Taylor;
“Most of the story came from my dreams over the years, including the initial concept, which came from a couple of specific, vivid dreams I had a long time ago. Those two dreams introduced Saham’a’iel and Sohrn’o’rak. Anu, Azor, Sirak, The Sea of Ash, and other bits also came from specific dreams. Astrallis is based on astral travel dreams I’ve had since I was young.”
The number of exotic names and terms included in this story might feel confusing at first, but it shouldn't be, with the right approach (credit to Taylor for including a glossary.)
The author is really big on ‘realms’. Not just realms to separate mortal beings from spirit beings but also what we may call sub-realms within them. Four main realms are explored - though there are hints that more realms exist (which Taylor will explore in subsequent books.)
CHARACTERS
One of the most intriguing elements of Codex Sohrakia is the way the characters are presented and developed and moved along the main narrative in such a way that some readers may struggle guessing who the real protagonist is. Over the course of the story, I felt that the main character was Thestra, but Taylor is quick to correct me as the main characters are Saham’a’iel and Sohrn’o’rak, though Thestra also has her shining moments. In the sequel and subsequent books, Saham and Sohrn will always be the center of the tales, Taylor confides.
PLOT
The story kicks off in a ‘Genesis’ fashion, taking us to the origins of creation and the division of a realm of Light from a realm of Darkness. The Seraphons are supreme angelic beings of the realm of Light who are forbidden to trespass into the realm of Darkness. That's only until Seraphon Saham’a’iel gets seduced by his own passion and curiosity and retrieves a small fragment of Dark Matter which he literally absorbs into himself and which eventually develops into his Dark sibling, Sohrn’o’rak, who will manipulate Saham to gift the living creatures of Terrasan (Earth?) with the ‘Dark Gift', turning them into Darklings. Among such mortal creatures to receive the Dark Gift is Thestra, a baby girl who was born deformed and destined to die but who, upon being Dark Gifted, turns into a woman so stunning and beautiful, even Saham falls in love with her (while Sohrn still resides within him.)
When Sohrn finally detaches himself from Saham, taking a form of Dark Twin, Saham repents of his trespasses and embarks on a journey of repentance, by finding and killing all the Darklings he can find and to clean up his mess, for lack of better terms. The only problem is that in order to show sincere repentance, he must also end the life of his beloved Thestra!
THE ESSENCE
According to Taylor:
“The book explores several things, like being an outcast, seeing light and dark in a new way, the endless grays of the psyche, belief systems, preconceived notions, and the consequences of acting on those urges. It addresses how deeply the mind can dig itself into concepts and ideas, often coming to misguided conclusions and acting out on them until consequences arise to teach us a broader perspective. Through Saham’a’iel and other characters, the story turns the mirror around to the self, asking fundamental questions about right vs. wrong and what drives one’s actions.”
All these various elements make the essence of CS quite unique.
CONCLUSIONS
Despite all the twists and turns, complex characters, amazing descriptions of each of the fantasy realms, Taylor had her doubts about people embracing and enjoying this type of read:
“Well, it’s unusual. The approach doesn’t fit typical tropes or genres, as was mentioned above. Even though it’s not happening on Earth, and is not based on any earthly religion, it crosses some lines with regard to religion or spirituality that I think might not appeal to certain people. That said, it’s deeply honest and personal to me, which I wasn’t too sure would resonate outside of myself. Let me add here that The Gifted Dark took me more than two decades to write. Why, because I would work on it for a while, put it aside, sometimes for a year or more, then pick it back up and add a little more. I was in no hurry because I never intended to release it. It was only for me. Much of book two, The Athanasy Pact, was also conceived and written during those years, but just didn’t fit into book 1.”
Another factor I feel is important to mention is the descriptions of the various realms: each with their own aesthetics, creatures, and colors. Whether it's the impossible architecture of the palace of the Dark Lord, or the Library of Azornathitan (where none may enter who hold their own ‘wisdom’ above truth), or the hills and groves of Terrasan, it all feels as though the author has seen those places and is now simply giving an account of them. The visuals projected into the mind of the reader are engrossing, atmospheric, and rich in a form of ‘escapism’ rarely seen today.
Where are the groundbreakers? Where are the trailblazers? Where are the authors who dare say “No! I am going to write this MY way”?
Look no further, for KM Taylor is it. And Codex Sohrakia is a masterpiece with no rivals in modern fiction literature.
💜
In an ocean of mediocre fantasy books, finding titles that are original, fresh, and exciting can be quite a challenge. What I am presenting to you today is a rare gem, as author KM Taylor has created one of the most sensational dark fantasy narratives of the decade.
Codex Sohrakia is a novel that sets itself apart from the rest, and for various reasons. The end result is quite astounding and I am confident it will leave readers in awe long after reading its last page.
INSPIRATION
How does such a uniquely written story come to life? According to Taylor;
“Most of the story came from my dreams over the years, including the initial concept, which came from a couple of specific, vivid dreams I had a long time ago. Those two dreams introduced Saham’a’iel and Sohrn’o’rak. Anu, Azor, Sirak, The Sea of Ash, and other bits also came from specific dreams. Astrallis is based on astral travel dreams I’ve had since I was young.”
The number of exotic names and terms included in this story might feel confusing at first, but it shouldn't be, with the right approach (credit to Taylor for including a glossary.)
The author is really big on ‘realms’. Not just realms to separate mortal beings from spirit beings but also what we may call sub-realms within them. Four main realms are explored - though there are hints that more realms exist (which Taylor will explore in subsequent books.)
CHARACTERS
One of the most intriguing elements of Codex Sohrakia is the way the characters are presented and developed and moved along the main narrative in such a way that some readers may struggle guessing who the real protagonist is. Over the course of the story, I felt that the main character was Thestra, but Taylor is quick to correct me as the main characters are Saham’a’iel and Sohrn’o’rak, though Thestra also has her shining moments. In the sequel and subsequent books, Saham and Sohrn will always be the center of the tales, Taylor confides.
PLOT
The story kicks off in a ‘Genesis’ fashion, taking us to the origins of creation and the division of a realm of Light from a realm of Darkness. The Seraphons are supreme angelic beings of the realm of Light who are forbidden to trespass into the realm of Darkness. That's only until Seraphon Saham’a’iel gets seduced by his own passion and curiosity and retrieves a small fragment of Dark Matter which he literally absorbs into himself and which eventually develops into his Dark sibling, Sohrn’o’rak, who will manipulate Saham to gift the living creatures of Terrasan (Earth?) with the ‘Dark Gift', turning them into Darklings. Among such mortal creatures to receive the Dark Gift is Thestra, a baby girl who was born deformed and destined to die but who, upon being Dark Gifted, turns into a woman so stunning and beautiful, even Saham falls in love with her (while Sohrn still resides within him.)
When Sohrn finally detaches himself from Saham, taking a form of Dark Twin, Saham repents of his trespasses and embarks on a journey of repentance, by finding and killing all the Darklings he can find and to clean up his mess, for lack of better terms. The only problem is that in order to show sincere repentance, he must also end the life of his beloved Thestra!
THE ESSENCE
According to Taylor:
“The book explores several things, like being an outcast, seeing light and dark in a new way, the endless grays of the psyche, belief systems, preconceived notions, and the consequences of acting on those urges. It addresses how deeply the mind can dig itself into concepts and ideas, often coming to misguided conclusions and acting out on them until consequences arise to teach us a broader perspective. Through Saham’a’iel and other characters, the story turns the mirror around to the self, asking fundamental questions about right vs. wrong and what drives one’s actions.”
All these various elements make the essence of CS quite unique.
CONCLUSIONS
Despite all the twists and turns, complex characters, amazing descriptions of each of the fantasy realms, Taylor had her doubts about people embracing and enjoying this type of read:
“Well, it’s unusual. The approach doesn’t fit typical tropes or genres, as was mentioned above. Even though it’s not happening on Earth, and is not based on any earthly religion, it crosses some lines with regard to religion or spirituality that I think might not appeal to certain people. That said, it’s deeply honest and personal to me, which I wasn’t too sure would resonate outside of myself. Let me add here that The Gifted Dark took me more than two decades to write. Why, because I would work on it for a while, put it aside, sometimes for a year or more, then pick it back up and add a little more. I was in no hurry because I never intended to release it. It was only for me. Much of book two, The Athanasy Pact, was also conceived and written during those years, but just didn’t fit into book 1.”
Another factor I feel is important to mention is the descriptions of the various realms: each with their own aesthetics, creatures, and colors. Whether it's the impossible architecture of the palace of the Dark Lord, or the Library of Azornathitan (where none may enter who hold their own ‘wisdom’ above truth), or the hills and groves of Terrasan, it all feels as though the author has seen those places and is now simply giving an account of them. The visuals projected into the mind of the reader are engrossing, atmospheric, and rich in a form of ‘escapism’ rarely seen today.
Where are the groundbreakers? Where are the trailblazers? Where are the authors who dare say “No! I am going to write this MY way”?
Look no further, for KM Taylor is it. And Codex Sohrakia is a masterpiece with no rivals in modern fiction literature.
💜
August 6, 2025
Codex Sohrakia: The Gifted Dark by KM Taylor is a striking fusion of high fantasy, rich lore, and psychological depth that commands the reader's attention from the opening chapter. Taylor’s world-building is immersive, layered with mythic resonance, political intrigue, and a spiritual undercurrent that gives the story uncommon weight.
At its core, The Gifted Dark is a story about power, how it’s wielded, feared, inherited, and resisted. The protagonist's journey is both internal and external, navigating a world that’s as morally complex as it is enchantingly dangerous. Taylor crafts her characters with nuance, giving us not just heroes and villains, but deeply human figures shaped by conflict, tradition, and trauma.
The prose is intelligent without being inaccessible, poetic yet sharp. Taylor has a gift for evoking mood through setting and emotion through silence, often letting what’s left unsaid carry just as much meaning as what’s on the page.
What sets this novel apart is its confidence in pacing. Taylor is in no rush to deliver answers, trusting her readers to dwell in the tension and shadows of the unfolding mystery. It’s a refreshing change from the breakneck speed of much contemporary fantasy, and it rewards patient, thoughtful reading.
Codex Sohrakia: The Gifted Dark is a compelling start to what promises to be an epic, thought-provoking series. KM Taylor is a name to watch in the genre, and this novel marks her as a storyteller of rare vision and control.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy fantasy that challenges as much as it entertains.
At its core, The Gifted Dark is a story about power, how it’s wielded, feared, inherited, and resisted. The protagonist's journey is both internal and external, navigating a world that’s as morally complex as it is enchantingly dangerous. Taylor crafts her characters with nuance, giving us not just heroes and villains, but deeply human figures shaped by conflict, tradition, and trauma.
The prose is intelligent without being inaccessible, poetic yet sharp. Taylor has a gift for evoking mood through setting and emotion through silence, often letting what’s left unsaid carry just as much meaning as what’s on the page.
What sets this novel apart is its confidence in pacing. Taylor is in no rush to deliver answers, trusting her readers to dwell in the tension and shadows of the unfolding mystery. It’s a refreshing change from the breakneck speed of much contemporary fantasy, and it rewards patient, thoughtful reading.
Codex Sohrakia: The Gifted Dark is a compelling start to what promises to be an epic, thought-provoking series. KM Taylor is a name to watch in the genre, and this novel marks her as a storyteller of rare vision and control.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy fantasy that challenges as much as it entertains.
November 12, 2025
An imaginative and powerful entry into the genre of fantasy
Codex Sohrakia: The Gifted Dark is an imaginative and powerful entry into the genre of fantasy but there is much more within and KM Taylor presents a book with a great level of depth through some great writing that had me immersed from the very beginning.
With a prologue that lays out the stakes – opposing forces ‘The Dark’ and ‘The Light’ which in essence need each other in order to function this concept feels both familiar and also fresh at the same time. We are in a true fantasy setting here with characters that are unique and original – in particular ‘Saham’a’iel’ embarks on a redemption journey that may affect those who are closest to him.
For those who enjoy fantasy with a dark edge and depth that carries a huge amount of originality, this is the read for you!
‘The terrible realities of his banishment circled his mind constantly, sending him into fits of anguish and desperation each time as he tried to think his way to some solution, to pull himself out of his exile. He simply could not accept that his plight, his punishment, would truly last forever’
Codex Sohrakia: The Gifted Dark is an imaginative and powerful entry into the genre of fantasy but there is much more within and KM Taylor presents a book with a great level of depth through some great writing that had me immersed from the very beginning.
With a prologue that lays out the stakes – opposing forces ‘The Dark’ and ‘The Light’ which in essence need each other in order to function this concept feels both familiar and also fresh at the same time. We are in a true fantasy setting here with characters that are unique and original – in particular ‘Saham’a’iel’ embarks on a redemption journey that may affect those who are closest to him.
For those who enjoy fantasy with a dark edge and depth that carries a huge amount of originality, this is the read for you!
‘The terrible realities of his banishment circled his mind constantly, sending him into fits of anguish and desperation each time as he tried to think his way to some solution, to pull himself out of his exile. He simply could not accept that his plight, his punishment, would truly last forever’
December 17, 2023
Finished this yesterday and it's still sinking in.Do not hesitate in buying this book.
Definitely book of the year for me,the sheer scope of the book is massive.
The imagination in this is incredible ,I tried to slow down to make it last but couldn't.An absolute page turner full of heros', villains ,amazing beings,amazing worlds,the story telling is superb and ties it all together but you don't end up where you thought you would or get there how you thought you would.
I need to know more about every single character.
It's all in the detail and the timing of delivery.
Beautiful scenes that make you want to go there and be part of.
I never thought I would find a story teller that could match Lumley or Barker but I have here.
Not a single moment where I thought hmmmm,that's a sign of a great book.
I can't wait to see where this goes ,as always when a book is finished that was epic there is something missing ,what's missing here is the next one,I can't wait.
Thank you for this awesome tale and I await the next instalment, 10 out 10,well done.
Definitely book of the year for me,the sheer scope of the book is massive.
The imagination in this is incredible ,I tried to slow down to make it last but couldn't.An absolute page turner full of heros', villains ,amazing beings,amazing worlds,the story telling is superb and ties it all together but you don't end up where you thought you would or get there how you thought you would.
I need to know more about every single character.
It's all in the detail and the timing of delivery.
Beautiful scenes that make you want to go there and be part of.
I never thought I would find a story teller that could match Lumley or Barker but I have here.
Not a single moment where I thought hmmmm,that's a sign of a great book.
I can't wait to see where this goes ,as always when a book is finished that was epic there is something missing ,what's missing here is the next one,I can't wait.
Thank you for this awesome tale and I await the next instalment, 10 out 10,well done.
November 3, 2023
This book tells a familiar tale in a whole new way. It’s sumptuous scenery and emotions roll the reader through a metaphysical and theological journey of self-discovery by giving us characters both intriguing and flawed. It is a story, a romance, a conflict asking the question: “Why are we and who are we?” within the detailed confines of a fantasy setting. The world building is descriptive and hauntingly beautiful. The characters are lovable even when they are doing things that roil your blood. Set in another world or dimension, it tells a tale of attempted redemption and love. The prose carried me along through its dark and mysterious world with little effort, but was “meaty” enough to make me want to visit this world more! I have read it twice and want to visit this Dark World again!
June 10, 2024
"Codex Sohrakia: The Gifted Dark" by K.M. Taylor is a gripping dark fantasy novel that delves deep into themes of redemption and the consequences of past actions. The story follows Saham, an Eternal Seraphon, who faces banishment from The Realm of Light for his dealings with The Dark. As he seeks to restore his place, his quest for forgiveness brings turmoil and suffering to those he loves. Written in a poetic and epic style, the book offers a surreal journey through wild dimensions and features intriguing characters. Fans of H.P. Lovecraft, Brian Lumley, and Clive Barker will find this novel enthralling and reminiscent of their chilling mythos and imaginative worlds. With its unique narrative and emotional depth, this book is a must-read for dark fantasy enthusiasts.
March 27, 2024
Tale of Good vs Evil
A remarkable book that defies expectations in the realm of good versus evil. Taylor's descriptive prose brings the characters and their environments to life, immersing the reader in a rich and imaginative world. The unique and imaginative characters are well-developed, and their complexity adds depth to the story. The author skillfully explores the gray areas of morality, creating a captivating and thought-provoking narrative.
A remarkable book that defies expectations in the realm of good versus evil. Taylor's descriptive prose brings the characters and their environments to life, immersing the reader in a rich and imaginative world. The unique and imaginative characters are well-developed, and their complexity adds depth to the story. The author skillfully explores the gray areas of morality, creating a captivating and thought-provoking narrative.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews