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Orphans of the Atercosm: A Collection
Advance praise for Orphans of the Atercosm“Page’s writing is much like Lovecraft’s glassy smooth in places, terrifyingly brutal in others, ever dark and full of mystery. Atercosm seduces with its eerie wonders and horrifies with its glimpses beyond the veil, where fathomless revelations linger just beyond our comprehension. Those who read this collection will encounter Page's unique brand of literary madness.”—Felix Blackwell,bestselling author of Stolen Tongues“A tour de force of the weird and the uncanny, C.F. Page’s Orphans of the Atercosm is a must read for fans of Ligotti, Lovecraft, and all things weird horror.”—Richard Beauchamp,author of Black Tongue & Other Anomalies“I find that I have to prepare in advance to read a C.F. Page story because, once I begin, I know my responsibilities are going to fly out the window.”—Alana K. Drex,author of Sleeping Celeste and Shsskish“C.F. Page is a unique and gifted storyteller, and he’s accomplished what very few authors have for aside from the fascinating story and interesting characters, Page manages to pull me back in through a unique and incredible writing style that I simply could not get enough of.”—Tobin Elliott,author of the six-book horror series, The AphoticPraise for Native Fear“It’s a beautiful, brutal, complex, terrifying read.”—Scream Magazine“Page's Native Fear is a blistering and evocative examination of man’s darkness. A harrowing read.”—Steve Stred,Splatterpunk-nominated author of Sacrament and Mastodon.“Debut author [C. F.] Page presents an intricate horror novel . . . an inventive take on a rural place filled with unspeakable malice.”—Kirkus Reviews
- GenresHorror
179 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
January 3, 2024
A deep, labyrinthine text, though still managing to be a quick read at under 200 pages. If you like the strange, the mysterious, the otherworldly and a sense of unfathomable mystery, then this collection is for you. Consider it a mere glimpse into Page's writing, or a taste of things to come. As the subtitle suggests, this is Side A only.
The plot is hard to sum up. This is a collection, so the overall plot is not concrete. However, what exists BETWEEN the lines and UNDERNEATH the stories does form a bed of saplings. These grow behind us as we turn our eyes back to the text on the page. At the end of the book, our minds now twisted with the new canopy, we see the connections and can glean meanings and possibilities, but ultimately - much like the characters in this cosmic darkness of a book - we are left with questions and the sense of a deep mythology unwinding before us. I'm already interested to grab a copy of Side B! Whenever it comes out.
Page's writing is as professional as can be. It's polished and possesses a distinct voice. Even when this collection veers into interesting narrative techniques - epistolary fashion, letters, case files, study notes, a transcript - there is not a single word thrown away. I am not generally a cosmic horror reader, but I'm a sucker for linked narratives and mysteries, so that alone pulled me in.
I'm now a fan of Page, and I'll have to check out his previous book, Native Fear. Happy release day to Orphans of the Atercosm.
The plot is hard to sum up. This is a collection, so the overall plot is not concrete. However, what exists BETWEEN the lines and UNDERNEATH the stories does form a bed of saplings. These grow behind us as we turn our eyes back to the text on the page. At the end of the book, our minds now twisted with the new canopy, we see the connections and can glean meanings and possibilities, but ultimately - much like the characters in this cosmic darkness of a book - we are left with questions and the sense of a deep mythology unwinding before us. I'm already interested to grab a copy of Side B! Whenever it comes out.
Page's writing is as professional as can be. It's polished and possesses a distinct voice. Even when this collection veers into interesting narrative techniques - epistolary fashion, letters, case files, study notes, a transcript - there is not a single word thrown away. I am not generally a cosmic horror reader, but I'm a sucker for linked narratives and mysteries, so that alone pulled me in.
I'm now a fan of Page, and I'll have to check out his previous book, Native Fear. Happy release day to Orphans of the Atercosm.
April 14, 2024
notes from a Decaying Millennial -
I received a paperback of this book from the author, who simply requested an honest review.
My tastes in Coffee and Weird Fiction seem to run along very similar veins. descriptions like "Occulted" , "Rich" "Complex" "suffused with an atmosphere of foreboding" " provides a glimpse into realms of horrors beyond our ken", all of these could describe the coffee currently in my mug, or the books I read. How does all that relate to Orphans of the Atercosm? Permit me to explain.
This is not a paid review
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In Orphans of the Aterccosm: Side A , author C.F. Page has presented the reader with a series of stories. Each is a unique permutation, a peak at a small corner that is "The Atercosm" some of these stories are very openly nods and homage to famous authors of the genre. Whether it's a tale of unknown horrors washed ashore from the depths of the ocean, serial murders with eldritch connections or others, Page deftly presents each story with a voice all his own.
If you are reading this you, like me, are probably a lover of books. It should comes as no surprise that one of favorite tropes in Weird Fiction, when done well, is the concept of a book that is more than a simple bound volume. The story in the section The Artifact calls back to Lovecraft and Chambers, then moves beyond them using the book in questions to guide the reader to look beyond the confines of the story itself, to see the veins connecting to the larger narrative, the looming presence in the Atercosm.
In his preface to the final section of this book, "Nocturnium",C.F. Page paraphrased Jac Vanek when he states "You are what you read". This struggle for any author is to successfully read the works of authors, be inspired by, but not to mimic. For those who write in that recess where Weird Fiction and Horror conjoin, the pitfalls of copying for instance: Lovecraft, Bierce or Blackwood, can be tricky. To his credit, author Page not only addresses this problem directly, he successfully demonstrates how a writer can absorb the works of greats of the genre, and produce fresh works worthy of merit and further attention.
I would be remise if I didn't circle back to "Nocturnium". This final section of the book is, in fact the first part of a separate book that Page is currently working on. For this reason, it felt less like a story in the greater collection, and more akin to a "sneak peak at this forthcoming book" that some publishers include at end of TPB releases. That's not a jab at the final story at all. In fact, reading that small portion of Nocturnium left me wanting to read the rest, and soon.
I received a paperback of this book from the author, who simply requested an honest review.
My tastes in Coffee and Weird Fiction seem to run along very similar veins. descriptions like "Occulted" , "Rich" "Complex" "suffused with an atmosphere of foreboding" " provides a glimpse into realms of horrors beyond our ken", all of these could describe the coffee currently in my mug, or the books I read. How does all that relate to Orphans of the Atercosm? Permit me to explain.
This is not a paid review
-
In Orphans of the Aterccosm: Side A , author C.F. Page has presented the reader with a series of stories. Each is a unique permutation, a peak at a small corner that is "The Atercosm" some of these stories are very openly nods and homage to famous authors of the genre. Whether it's a tale of unknown horrors washed ashore from the depths of the ocean, serial murders with eldritch connections or others, Page deftly presents each story with a voice all his own.
If you are reading this you, like me, are probably a lover of books. It should comes as no surprise that one of favorite tropes in Weird Fiction, when done well, is the concept of a book that is more than a simple bound volume. The story in the section The Artifact calls back to Lovecraft and Chambers, then moves beyond them using the book in questions to guide the reader to look beyond the confines of the story itself, to see the veins connecting to the larger narrative, the looming presence in the Atercosm.
In his preface to the final section of this book, "Nocturnium",C.F. Page paraphrased Jac Vanek when he states "You are what you read". This struggle for any author is to successfully read the works of authors, be inspired by, but not to mimic. For those who write in that recess where Weird Fiction and Horror conjoin, the pitfalls of copying for instance: Lovecraft, Bierce or Blackwood, can be tricky. To his credit, author Page not only addresses this problem directly, he successfully demonstrates how a writer can absorb the works of greats of the genre, and produce fresh works worthy of merit and further attention.
I would be remise if I didn't circle back to "Nocturnium". This final section of the book is, in fact the first part of a separate book that Page is currently working on. For this reason, it felt less like a story in the greater collection, and more akin to a "sneak peak at this forthcoming book" that some publishers include at end of TPB releases. That's not a jab at the final story at all. In fact, reading that small portion of Nocturnium left me wanting to read the rest, and soon.
January 4, 2024
C.F. Page’s collection left me speechless. It took me some time to finally write a review. The book caught me unawares and blew me away!
Page employs Lovecraftian motifs, taking what you thought is weird and cosmic horror into entirely original directions, with a prose that is unparalleled and oftentimes simply extraordinary (“—THE PERFECT BLACK PRAYS FOR stars and suns; famished abyss hungers for slop and chum; apotheotic beauty has a scar I love; and the consecrated void is a lonely god”, from “Born of Blood [A Love Story]”). The collection contains five stories plus a preview of Page’s new novel, “Nocturnium” (may it find a home VERY soon!) Each story is a must read, the display of terrific skill and artistry. Two stories I urge everyone to read: “The Boondoggle” and “Born of Blood [A Love Story].” You won't see cosmic horror the same way ever again!
Page has been compared to Lovecraft and Ligotti, but the collection shows such originality and uniqueness in style and imagery, any comparison seems incomplete or pointless. Highly recommended!
Page employs Lovecraftian motifs, taking what you thought is weird and cosmic horror into entirely original directions, with a prose that is unparalleled and oftentimes simply extraordinary (“—THE PERFECT BLACK PRAYS FOR stars and suns; famished abyss hungers for slop and chum; apotheotic beauty has a scar I love; and the consecrated void is a lonely god”, from “Born of Blood [A Love Story]”). The collection contains five stories plus a preview of Page’s new novel, “Nocturnium” (may it find a home VERY soon!) Each story is a must read, the display of terrific skill and artistry. Two stories I urge everyone to read: “The Boondoggle” and “Born of Blood [A Love Story].” You won't see cosmic horror the same way ever again!
Page has been compared to Lovecraft and Ligotti, but the collection shows such originality and uniqueness in style and imagery, any comparison seems incomplete or pointless. Highly recommended!
June 23, 2024
I love weird fiction – it is my favourite genre/sub-genre of writing there is, just for its sheer inventiveness, unpredictability and some of the most poetic and darkly disturbing literary prose. Weird fiction has room for horror, comedy, unique characterizations, mysteries, and inventive storytelling all set in the most unique and amorphous of atmospheres.
C.F. Page has these elements in all the writing of his I’ve read. Abundantly so. I was introduced to him by way of a beta read of an upcoming novel of his (The Swallowed Town.) It was stunning and I was made an immediate devotee of his writing. Before I’d finished that beta read, I had ordered this collection as well as his novel Native Fear.
I have not been disappointed.
C.F. Page makes my brain and teeth itch. I simultaneously want to make sense of what I’m reading while I am flinching away from the unknowable terrors he teasingly unveils. I am compelled to carry on even as I try to talk myself out of continuing the story for fear of losing myself in the maddening horror. I absolutely jump at shadows and draw away from dark corners (and am so much more suspicious of water) because of him.
He’s made no secret of the impact of Lovecraft and Ligotti on his work, but he manages to make this influence into his own modern, unique and accessible style and language. This short collection feels all of a piece, as in it all exists in the same borderless dark cosmos but not obviously linked. You just get that feeling that these characters could cross each other’s path in their dark wanderings.
There is no clear path to a denouement, these stories leave you feeling unsettled and out of synch with the world in the best possible way.
While I wait for Nocturnium to be published (there’s a wonderful, maddening tease of a sneak peak at this novel included in Orphans) I can move on to Native Fear.
C.F. Page has these elements in all the writing of his I’ve read. Abundantly so. I was introduced to him by way of a beta read of an upcoming novel of his (The Swallowed Town.) It was stunning and I was made an immediate devotee of his writing. Before I’d finished that beta read, I had ordered this collection as well as his novel Native Fear.
I have not been disappointed.
C.F. Page makes my brain and teeth itch. I simultaneously want to make sense of what I’m reading while I am flinching away from the unknowable terrors he teasingly unveils. I am compelled to carry on even as I try to talk myself out of continuing the story for fear of losing myself in the maddening horror. I absolutely jump at shadows and draw away from dark corners (and am so much more suspicious of water) because of him.
He’s made no secret of the impact of Lovecraft and Ligotti on his work, but he manages to make this influence into his own modern, unique and accessible style and language. This short collection feels all of a piece, as in it all exists in the same borderless dark cosmos but not obviously linked. You just get that feeling that these characters could cross each other’s path in their dark wanderings.
There is no clear path to a denouement, these stories leave you feeling unsettled and out of synch with the world in the best possible way.
While I wait for Nocturnium to be published (there’s a wonderful, maddening tease of a sneak peak at this novel included in Orphans) I can move on to Native Fear.
May 10, 2024
When it comes to horror (and the broader spectrum of weird fiction) C. F. Page is something special, and Orphans of the Atercosm is a clear example of how.
Side note: whenever I think of or look at this book, it plays some eldritch tricks because I always think/see "Aftercosm" instead.
Picking up a Page book means facing complex, verbose, abstract passages of text that emit an unmistakable atmosphere, yet may not give you a clear image of quite what you are reading about. His vocabulary is enviable, if sometimes bloated, and there is a clear passion for the strange and unknowable weaved throughout.
That is to say, reading Page is ofttimes struggle and joy folded into one. The strength of his works isn't necessarily in the plot or characters, but in the outworldly weird and unsettling sensations it latches onto.
In some ways, Page's writing is unapologetically self-indulgent, yet he skirts the edges of arrogance and condescension, delivering engaging, mind-blowing narratives that expect you to step up and understand rather than talking down to you or holding your hand.
Perhaps, at times, there is a sense of "trying too hard". But when it comes down to the meat and gristle, Page sets out to accomplish his goals with his stories, and I'd say he does just that.
So it's very hard to assess this collection - a collection that accomplishes a favourite trope of mine, that being short stories that interconnect into a wider whole - on the merit of the stories themselves. It's an experience more than anything, as you're dragged through planes of strangeness and then spat out to process what you've seen and heard and felt and consumed.
I can admit to being intimidated by Page's verbiage and vocabulary, but in the best of ways. In terms of the grip this book had on me when reading, I can't justify rating it any lower.
And I hope Nocturnium is ultimately revealed in all its insane glory.
Side note: whenever I think of or look at this book, it plays some eldritch tricks because I always think/see "Aftercosm" instead.
Picking up a Page book means facing complex, verbose, abstract passages of text that emit an unmistakable atmosphere, yet may not give you a clear image of quite what you are reading about. His vocabulary is enviable, if sometimes bloated, and there is a clear passion for the strange and unknowable weaved throughout.
That is to say, reading Page is ofttimes struggle and joy folded into one. The strength of his works isn't necessarily in the plot or characters, but in the outworldly weird and unsettling sensations it latches onto.
In some ways, Page's writing is unapologetically self-indulgent, yet he skirts the edges of arrogance and condescension, delivering engaging, mind-blowing narratives that expect you to step up and understand rather than talking down to you or holding your hand.
Perhaps, at times, there is a sense of "trying too hard". But when it comes down to the meat and gristle, Page sets out to accomplish his goals with his stories, and I'd say he does just that.
So it's very hard to assess this collection - a collection that accomplishes a favourite trope of mine, that being short stories that interconnect into a wider whole - on the merit of the stories themselves. It's an experience more than anything, as you're dragged through planes of strangeness and then spat out to process what you've seen and heard and felt and consumed.
I can admit to being intimidated by Page's verbiage and vocabulary, but in the best of ways. In terms of the grip this book had on me when reading, I can't justify rating it any lower.
And I hope Nocturnium is ultimately revealed in all its insane glory.
July 20, 2024
This book was a collection of 6 short stories. What I loved about these collections, was how well written and poetic they were.
C.F. Page has such a beautiful talent when it comes to putting words on paper. Each story required you to really think about what you were reading. You could not stray away, because every detail mattered. I personally loved the “Muse” it was horrific and yet I just wanted to keep reading more. This is one you should definitely check out if you have not done so.
C.F. Page has such a beautiful talent when it comes to putting words on paper. Each story required you to really think about what you were reading. You could not stray away, because every detail mattered. I personally loved the “Muse” it was horrific and yet I just wanted to keep reading more. This is one you should definitely check out if you have not done so.
August 11, 2024
Yes, my advance praise for this book shows up above. It's no secret that I am a fan of Page's writing and this collection did not disappoint.
For me, the Globster story and The Hand are the standouts. They're both really good and creepy, and Globster could have been a lost Lovecraft story, to be honest.
I will admit I wasn't sure about Boondoggle initially, but I quite enjoyed it by the end. But Nocturnium? That one kicks serious butt, and it's a fantastic way to end it. And I really want to read the full novel (you listening, Mr. Page?)
I enjoyed this strange, bizarre, brilliant collection immensely.
For me, the Globster story and The Hand are the standouts. They're both really good and creepy, and Globster could have been a lost Lovecraft story, to be honest.
I will admit I wasn't sure about Boondoggle initially, but I quite enjoyed it by the end. But Nocturnium? That one kicks serious butt, and it's a fantastic way to end it. And I really want to read the full novel (you listening, Mr. Page?)
I enjoyed this strange, bizarre, brilliant collection immensely.
July 19, 2024
This was an interesting collection of stories. The writing style for each story is so different and complex it will leave you questioning reality at every turn of the page. A great example of cosmic horror.
March 18, 2024
I enjoyed the different style of writing and the wild short stories that were in this book. I think I enjoyed the first 3 stories the most, but all were very entertaining!
November 3, 2024
In the name of all that is holy, please let the full book of Nocturnium come to fruition.
Short story collections are always hit or miss. But not this one. Every story was excellent. Page’s writing is so skillful, mind bending, and just *chef’s kiss*. I’m eager to read everything he will write.
Short story collections are always hit or miss. But not this one. Every story was excellent. Page’s writing is so skillful, mind bending, and just *chef’s kiss*. I’m eager to read everything he will write.
January 3, 2024
As we usher in 2024, C.F. Page ushers in his powerful collection of stories, each one a gourmet of strangeness that unabashedly takes its genre from the cosmic horror that began shortly after the turn of the 20th century.
But what does this genre mean today? It many cases, it means a template, a preset, a connect-the-dots puzzle. But not for Page. In Orphans of the Atercosm, Page goes all out on conjuring, evoking, and materialising a world that is terrifying and strange, tapping into elements of the Gothic traditions of the uncanny that was absorbed into the horror of the 1920s, and he does this without relying on imitation--this is all Page's imagination.
In terms of style, Page doesn't hold the reader's hand; more importantly, he doesn't treat the reader like an idiot. The prose is unapologetically dense and the vocabulary, both vibrant and archaic at times, has carefully been picked out. Our world is inside these stories. So are other realities. So is the strangeness of consciousness. It requires a certain amount of skill to execute such imaginative work, and Page succeeds here.
I enjoyed every story in the collection, but in particular The Boondoggle and The Hand stand out with their intense images that still linger in my mind.
This is the beauty of imagination, the beauty of the strange, the beauty of the uncanny. This is C.F. Page's Orphans of the Atercosm.
But what does this genre mean today? It many cases, it means a template, a preset, a connect-the-dots puzzle. But not for Page. In Orphans of the Atercosm, Page goes all out on conjuring, evoking, and materialising a world that is terrifying and strange, tapping into elements of the Gothic traditions of the uncanny that was absorbed into the horror of the 1920s, and he does this without relying on imitation--this is all Page's imagination.
In terms of style, Page doesn't hold the reader's hand; more importantly, he doesn't treat the reader like an idiot. The prose is unapologetically dense and the vocabulary, both vibrant and archaic at times, has carefully been picked out. Our world is inside these stories. So are other realities. So is the strangeness of consciousness. It requires a certain amount of skill to execute such imaginative work, and Page succeeds here.
I enjoyed every story in the collection, but in particular The Boondoggle and The Hand stand out with their intense images that still linger in my mind.
This is the beauty of imagination, the beauty of the strange, the beauty of the uncanny. This is C.F. Page's Orphans of the Atercosm.
May 3, 2024
A collection of cosmic horror that makes you wonder what if.
October 17, 2024
I've had a copy of Orphans Of The Atercosm, as well as Page's novel Native Fear, for a little while but had just never gotten around to reading until now. I can't help but feel that I made a big mistake waiting this long—the short stories collected here scratch an itch that it feels not many authors manage to reach, and I had such a good time reading them.
Orphans Of The Atercosm consists of four short stories, each falling firmly into the cosmic horror, perhaps weird fiction sub-genres. There is also the inclusion of the prologue and first chapter of a yet-to-be published novel, titled Nocturnium. I haven't included this sneak peek in my rating for the book, as it's almost impossible to fairly evaluate such an inclusion out of its context—I think it's enough to say the sample on display here is enough to make me want to read the full book, and I hope that one day it finds a home.
There are a range of influences here, from King to Ligotti, Aickman to Blackwood, Lovecraft to Evenson, but despite wearing these influences on his sleeve—and in some cases dedicating stories to them—the writing never feels derivative or imitative. If you're going to take from such titans of the genre, you have to do them justice, and Page does. The prose is dense but engaging; it makes demands of the reader with the promise of paying off their investment, and everything from the formatting to the word choices made feels deliberate and considered—I'm not ashamed to admit that on more than one occasion I took advantage of the Kindle's dictionary function. The quality of the writing here is impressively high generally and of a level I haven't often seen from indie authors. Allow yourself to sink into the often poetic writing, to give these stories your full attention, and reap the rewards on offer.
Each of the twisted tales on offer here is great, but my personal favourite is Born Of Blood. An almost-noir police procedural crossed with pure cosmic terror, numerous twists and turns, brutal imagery, and a richly fleshed-out narrative for a relatively short story, it brought to mind the first season of True Detective or the work of Laird Barron, while entirely being its own thing. Highly recommended to anyone that wants mystery and the unknowable in their read and that values well-written literary horror.
Orphans Of The Atercosm consists of four short stories, each falling firmly into the cosmic horror, perhaps weird fiction sub-genres. There is also the inclusion of the prologue and first chapter of a yet-to-be published novel, titled Nocturnium. I haven't included this sneak peek in my rating for the book, as it's almost impossible to fairly evaluate such an inclusion out of its context—I think it's enough to say the sample on display here is enough to make me want to read the full book, and I hope that one day it finds a home.
There are a range of influences here, from King to Ligotti, Aickman to Blackwood, Lovecraft to Evenson, but despite wearing these influences on his sleeve—and in some cases dedicating stories to them—the writing never feels derivative or imitative. If you're going to take from such titans of the genre, you have to do them justice, and Page does. The prose is dense but engaging; it makes demands of the reader with the promise of paying off their investment, and everything from the formatting to the word choices made feels deliberate and considered—I'm not ashamed to admit that on more than one occasion I took advantage of the Kindle's dictionary function. The quality of the writing here is impressively high generally and of a level I haven't often seen from indie authors. Allow yourself to sink into the often poetic writing, to give these stories your full attention, and reap the rewards on offer.
Each of the twisted tales on offer here is great, but my personal favourite is Born Of Blood. An almost-noir police procedural crossed with pure cosmic terror, numerous twists and turns, brutal imagery, and a richly fleshed-out narrative for a relatively short story, it brought to mind the first season of True Detective or the work of Laird Barron, while entirely being its own thing. Highly recommended to anyone that wants mystery and the unknowable in their read and that values well-written literary horror.
December 2, 2024
This little book gave me goosebumps and not going to lie, I read it twice, before I even started this review, it was phenomenal .
( side note this is part of the BOH Short Smack if you know what that is)
I love cosmic horror but as in , its one of the harshest categories I judge, in my opinion, I don't want garbage, I need soul to my cosmic.
I'm ashamed to say I don't exactly stray outside my usual Cosmic Authors, but C.F is now on that list.
His writing is heavy but worth it, he has that world building skill that I look for in Cosmic Horror, but not on and on, and boring, every word is needed for the whole experiance and what an roller coaster it is.
I cannot stop thinking about Born of Blood.
Spoiler alert, it was my absolute hands down favorite.
It was a little detective x cosmic horror, and as you guys know, I have a thing for any unusual detectives, something about this story in particular really hit with me, it reminded me of Laird Barron and I mean that as a high compliment( love him).
This was the best of weird cosmic horror, which sometimes can get a little preachy and drone on, sorry but its true, this did not do that, this had me physically leaning into the book, and now that its done, I feel like I have a reading hangover.
This was an absolute rollercoaster, and I need more from C.F, immediately, I don't even know what to read after finishing my second run of this one.
( side note this is part of the BOH Short Smack if you know what that is)
I love cosmic horror but as in , its one of the harshest categories I judge, in my opinion, I don't want garbage, I need soul to my cosmic.
I'm ashamed to say I don't exactly stray outside my usual Cosmic Authors, but C.F is now on that list.
His writing is heavy but worth it, he has that world building skill that I look for in Cosmic Horror, but not on and on, and boring, every word is needed for the whole experiance and what an roller coaster it is.
I cannot stop thinking about Born of Blood.
Spoiler alert, it was my absolute hands down favorite.
It was a little detective x cosmic horror, and as you guys know, I have a thing for any unusual detectives, something about this story in particular really hit with me, it reminded me of Laird Barron and I mean that as a high compliment( love him).
This was the best of weird cosmic horror, which sometimes can get a little preachy and drone on, sorry but its true, this did not do that, this had me physically leaning into the book, and now that its done, I feel like I have a reading hangover.
This was an absolute rollercoaster, and I need more from C.F, immediately, I don't even know what to read after finishing my second run of this one.
December 6, 2025
Orphans of the Atercosm by CF Page is a slim collection of cosmic horror that will — how should I say this? — creep you the f*ck out.
I’d read a couple of the stories in this collection back in 2023 when they were published individually. Here’s what I noticed upon rereading them: The best short horror writing shows pinpoint restraint. It opens the door enough to give you a glimpse into what’s happening and lets your mind piece together the implications of otherworldly terror. I’ve said this before, but I don’t know an independent author more deserving of a book deal than CF Page.
In these five stories (plus a preview of a forthcoming novel), you’ll encounter: a grotesque sea creature with powerful influence, bird-obsessed madness, a grisly murder mystery, a metaphorical seven-fingered hand of doom, and more, all written in prose that feels somehow both timeless and progressive. CF Page writes in a style that pays homage to cosmic horror grandmasters like HP Lovecraft and Arthur Machen, but makes it accessible enough for fans of contemporary horror writers.
Highly recommended, whether you’re curious about cosmic horror or if you’ve been reading Lovecraftian stories since you were a kid.
Also: Check out his debut novel, Native Fear. A mix of folk and cosmic horror. Reads like Stephen King/HP Lovecraft collab.
I’d read a couple of the stories in this collection back in 2023 when they were published individually. Here’s what I noticed upon rereading them: The best short horror writing shows pinpoint restraint. It opens the door enough to give you a glimpse into what’s happening and lets your mind piece together the implications of otherworldly terror. I’ve said this before, but I don’t know an independent author more deserving of a book deal than CF Page.
In these five stories (plus a preview of a forthcoming novel), you’ll encounter: a grotesque sea creature with powerful influence, bird-obsessed madness, a grisly murder mystery, a metaphorical seven-fingered hand of doom, and more, all written in prose that feels somehow both timeless and progressive. CF Page writes in a style that pays homage to cosmic horror grandmasters like HP Lovecraft and Arthur Machen, but makes it accessible enough for fans of contemporary horror writers.
Highly recommended, whether you’re curious about cosmic horror or if you’ve been reading Lovecraftian stories since you were a kid.
Also: Check out his debut novel, Native Fear. A mix of folk and cosmic horror. Reads like Stephen King/HP Lovecraft collab.
April 8, 2024
I have seen again and again that C. F. Page is our modern answer for Lovecraft, and for that reason I feel I should note I’ve only read one or two short stories of Lovecraft and therefore cannot tell you if that comparison is accurate or not. HOWEVER, what I can tell you is Page has a writing style I rarely see, and as such I would agree it is unique, intricate, and oddly poetic in a “this guy is losing me but I’m in awe, nevertheless” sort of way. And it’s here I should point out that I indeed felt confused at times during this collection, that I was not always following Page and the cosmic story he was telling. That being said, cosmic horror done right usually is confusing and/or bewildering, which Orphans of the Atercosm is, no doubt. The writing is a complex tapestry; the stories are difficult to define and perhaps even harder to retell with any justice; and the narration is that of someone suffering from both crazy and genius illusions of grandeur, not unlike a great mind being warped by the pull of a worm hole.
So, despite my occasional fumblings while reading this collection, I certainly enjoyed it and walked away perturbed and curious to go again. Maybe I’ll grasp it better the second time. Either way, I’ll be looking to add Native Fear to my #tbr stack.
So, despite my occasional fumblings while reading this collection, I certainly enjoyed it and walked away perturbed and curious to go again. Maybe I’ll grasp it better the second time. Either way, I’ll be looking to add Native Fear to my #tbr stack.
April 23, 2024
Orphans Of The Atercosm Review: 4.5 ⭐
Thank you to C.F Page for the free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This collection was amazing! Featuring five unique and intricately written stories, Page had me hooked from the beginning. I've never read anything like this before, but I would love to explore more cosmic horror after this. Page's writing style is beautiful and had me reading as fast as I could to see what happened next. Every time I thought I knew where it was going, it took a left turn right at the last second (sentence). This book was weird and wonderful with its vivid imagery and colorful language. My favorites were "The Globster of Cape Frankfurt" and "The Boondoggle."
The last two chapters of this collection are the prologue and the first chapter of the next book the author wants to publish, and I sincerely hope he does! It had me hooked and left me begging for more. I really hope that gets published!! I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a great short story collection that will leave you begging for more!
Thank you to C.F Page for the free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This collection was amazing! Featuring five unique and intricately written stories, Page had me hooked from the beginning. I've never read anything like this before, but I would love to explore more cosmic horror after this. Page's writing style is beautiful and had me reading as fast as I could to see what happened next. Every time I thought I knew where it was going, it took a left turn right at the last second (sentence). This book was weird and wonderful with its vivid imagery and colorful language. My favorites were "The Globster of Cape Frankfurt" and "The Boondoggle."
The last two chapters of this collection are the prologue and the first chapter of the next book the author wants to publish, and I sincerely hope he does! It had me hooked and left me begging for more. I really hope that gets published!! I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a great short story collection that will leave you begging for more!
May 24, 2025
🤔 Review: Orphans of the Atercosm 🤔
Following a 4 ⭐ read of Page's novel, Native Fear, I was super excited to dive into his for his first short story collection. Chalk this one up as another incredibly complex, prose driven descent into madness. Page writes with a verbose style that could very well been penned by a time traveling Lovecraft.
While I can't say for certain that I always understood what was unfolding before me, I will admit that I was often left with a special sense of disjointed reality (in the best kind of way)
The highlight of this collection is most certainly "The Boondoggle". Only Brian Evenson & Michael Wehunt have made me feel so uncomfortable reading a (relatively tame) short tale. This one is worth the price of admission.
If you're a fan of challenging, certainly disorienting cosmic horror, Page is your guy. There is nothing casual about these tales, but if you want to close the book with a profound feeling of disorientation & WTF... you will likely enjoy the terror contained within these pages.
Following a 4 ⭐ read of Page's novel, Native Fear, I was super excited to dive into his for his first short story collection. Chalk this one up as another incredibly complex, prose driven descent into madness. Page writes with a verbose style that could very well been penned by a time traveling Lovecraft.
While I can't say for certain that I always understood what was unfolding before me, I will admit that I was often left with a special sense of disjointed reality (in the best kind of way)
The highlight of this collection is most certainly "The Boondoggle". Only Brian Evenson & Michael Wehunt have made me feel so uncomfortable reading a (relatively tame) short tale. This one is worth the price of admission.
If you're a fan of challenging, certainly disorienting cosmic horror, Page is your guy. There is nothing casual about these tales, but if you want to close the book with a profound feeling of disorientation & WTF... you will likely enjoy the terror contained within these pages.
January 12, 2024
If there is one thing that's clear after reading Orphans of the Atercosm, it's that C. F. Page truly has tapped into a particular pulse of the literary world hidden under the deepest cracks and crevices of Weird fiction. The aesthetic isn't fully namable, a characteristic shared with many of the creatures and experiences characters in this collection face, but it is powerful; even now I find my mind sinking into the dark seas of worlds I forgot I once knew...a sensation I truly cherish. There is a love and precision to this work, and while Page's "unique brand of literary madness," to quote Felix Blackwell, may not always work for all readers just as all the stories and poems in this assemblage may not work for them (almost unavoidable in a collection), I am confident there is something special to experience here if you play along. It is the beginning of something grand, deep, and utterly sinister in the best way. You have been warned. God...god help us all.
February 29, 2024
Oh my gosh what to even say about this book?!?!
It was a very fun read. I gotta say I did not know what to expect when I started. I got this book directly from the author (thank you sooooo much!) and was told that it was horror.
This was a collection of stories that cross different themes. When I first started reading, it honestly reminded me of some authors I love reading, such as Stephen king and Clifford Simak. The stories are odd and cosmic, and a very fast read.
Starting with the first story, I was so excited that there was a therapist in the story addressing the main character’s phobia regarding water… all the way to the author’s major revelation of his inspiration from the resident evil video games. I absolutely lost my mind because resident evil is one of my favorite games of all time. SO, when are we getting a Nocturnium full book?
Absolutely love this.
You’ll enjoy this book if you’ve enjoyed some the biggest giants in horror and sci fi like Stephen king, H.P Lovecraft, and Clifford Simak.
It was a very fun read. I gotta say I did not know what to expect when I started. I got this book directly from the author (thank you sooooo much!) and was told that it was horror.
This was a collection of stories that cross different themes. When I first started reading, it honestly reminded me of some authors I love reading, such as Stephen king and Clifford Simak. The stories are odd and cosmic, and a very fast read.
Starting with the first story, I was so excited that there was a therapist in the story addressing the main character’s phobia regarding water… all the way to the author’s major revelation of his inspiration from the resident evil video games. I absolutely lost my mind because resident evil is one of my favorite games of all time. SO, when are we getting a Nocturnium full book?
Absolutely love this.
You’ll enjoy this book if you’ve enjoyed some the biggest giants in horror and sci fi like Stephen king, H.P Lovecraft, and Clifford Simak.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2024
C.F. Page has a professional and uncomplicated writing style. To me, personally, his writing felt like a roller coaster that you would like to ride over and over and over again because it meets your needs for thrills.
I loved all of the stories in this collection, but my personal favorite is "The Boondoggle."
This collection is my first read from C.F. Page and I have to say, I will be looking for more of his work as I really enjoyed this read.
I highly recommend you guys looking into his work as well. It's totally worth it.
Cannot wait until Nocturnium takes flight, it left me wanting more.
P.S. for C.F. Page, you said, "My literary mission is to bridge the gap between weird and mainstream." I think you have achieved this.
And I have to agree with "gamers will read books that scratch their itches. Gamers are not illiterate."
Thank you so much for your work! 💙
I loved all of the stories in this collection, but my personal favorite is "The Boondoggle."
This collection is my first read from C.F. Page and I have to say, I will be looking for more of his work as I really enjoyed this read.
I highly recommend you guys looking into his work as well. It's totally worth it.
Cannot wait until Nocturnium takes flight, it left me wanting more.
P.S. for C.F. Page, you said, "My literary mission is to bridge the gap between weird and mainstream." I think you have achieved this.
And I have to agree with "gamers will read books that scratch their itches. Gamers are not illiterate."
Thank you so much for your work! 💙
January 7, 2024
I received a proof copy from the author.
C.F. Page's , 'Orphans of the Atercosm & Other Dark Spirits' is a weird/cosmic horror delight. Page skillfully explores cosmic themes, offering a fresh updated take on weird horror with artistic prose. The collection features five stories (and preview of an unreleased novel, 'Nocturnium'), with my personal favorites being 'The Globster of Cape Frankfurt' and 'The Boondoggle.' Both of these stories had me awestruck, but the others are no slouches either. The collection is original and inventive but could be compared to the likes of Ambrose Bierce and Robert W Chambers. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who likes or is looking to get into weird, cosmic, or Lovecraftian horror.
C.F. Page's , 'Orphans of the Atercosm & Other Dark Spirits' is a weird/cosmic horror delight. Page skillfully explores cosmic themes, offering a fresh updated take on weird horror with artistic prose. The collection features five stories (and preview of an unreleased novel, 'Nocturnium'), with my personal favorites being 'The Globster of Cape Frankfurt' and 'The Boondoggle.' Both of these stories had me awestruck, but the others are no slouches either. The collection is original and inventive but could be compared to the likes of Ambrose Bierce and Robert W Chambers. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who likes or is looking to get into weird, cosmic, or Lovecraftian horror.
February 3, 2024
It’s cosmic, gothic and mixed with wonderful prose. All of these stories are deep and complex, pulling you into the tale.
Globster- I love this story, I read it a couple years ago and loved the creepy otherworldly aspect of the Globster.
Boondoggle- This one’s writing was really interesting. A therapist writing out a visit with a patient that is obsessed with birds and may fear more than his other personalities.
Born in Blood- There’s a lot going on in this story in the best way. A mystery that leads to an eldritch history.
The Hand-This one has such a great Lovecraftian feel, but also mixes in a uniqueness as well. I loved the chance of formatting in the end of the story!
Nocturnium-this is an interesting detective feel, mixed with that cosmic eldritch spin
Globster- I love this story, I read it a couple years ago and loved the creepy otherworldly aspect of the Globster.
Boondoggle- This one’s writing was really interesting. A therapist writing out a visit with a patient that is obsessed with birds and may fear more than his other personalities.
Born in Blood- There’s a lot going on in this story in the best way. A mystery that leads to an eldritch history.
The Hand-This one has such a great Lovecraftian feel, but also mixes in a uniqueness as well. I loved the chance of formatting in the end of the story!
Nocturnium-this is an interesting detective feel, mixed with that cosmic eldritch spin
March 26, 2024
“The abyss never leaves me; and I never leave it"
"The consecrated void is a lonely god"
When they say this book is lovecraftian, they mean it. High praise as it is, the vibes are there and it’s great. Each story brings a new horror to the table, with a unique voice to each one. “The Globster of Cape Frankfurt” is spooky and mysterious, filled with heart wrenching dread as it nears the inevitable. “Boondoggle” is almost clinical in its creepiness. It’s subtly unsettling. “Born of Blood” is full of unspoken horror, until it’s spoken to a horrifying degree. “The Hand” is like a puzzle mixed with a historical literature lesson. Finally, “Nocturnium” has me waiting with bated breath for the next release.
"The consecrated void is a lonely god"
When they say this book is lovecraftian, they mean it. High praise as it is, the vibes are there and it’s great. Each story brings a new horror to the table, with a unique voice to each one. “The Globster of Cape Frankfurt” is spooky and mysterious, filled with heart wrenching dread as it nears the inevitable. “Boondoggle” is almost clinical in its creepiness. It’s subtly unsettling. “Born of Blood” is full of unspoken horror, until it’s spoken to a horrifying degree. “The Hand” is like a puzzle mixed with a historical literature lesson. Finally, “Nocturnium” has me waiting with bated breath for the next release.
Read
November 27, 2024This book consists of several short stories and Novits as well as the first chapter of the authors novel in progress. I found the writing style to be very complex and almost poetic in parts. It shows shades of Lovecraft as well as others. I did find that the earlier stories in the book were not always the easiest to read. I don’t say this as a negative, simply that, it requires paying attention on the part of the reader. As for the first part of the novel, which ends the book, the author states that he has made an effort to bring his writing style more in line with what he wants to do in the future. I definitely find, that this part of the book is much easier to focus on then the earlier portions. All in all, and entertaining and thought-provoking collection.
January 23, 2024
This little beauty is delectable!
It had such a 19th-century feel to it with a modern twist to make it relevant.
Ooh I have missed this old school feel so much and didn't even know it until I was gifted this book!
Each story is so tantalizingly "Poe" or "Argernon."
I did love every story and wished they were all another 300 pages, but The Hand NEEDS more!! "Pretty please with sugar on top." *wink
Although, I am so delighted that Nocturnium is in the process (?) to be coming a full-length novel in the (near?) Future, if ever(?)
Anyway, such a good read for people if they like A24 cinema.
*going to add his first novel, Native Fear, into cart*
It had such a 19th-century feel to it with a modern twist to make it relevant.
Ooh I have missed this old school feel so much and didn't even know it until I was gifted this book!
Each story is so tantalizingly "Poe" or "Argernon."
I did love every story and wished they were all another 300 pages, but The Hand NEEDS more!! "Pretty please with sugar on top." *wink
Although, I am so delighted that Nocturnium is in the process (?) to be coming a full-length novel in the (near?) Future, if ever(?)
Anyway, such a good read for people if they like A24 cinema.
*going to add his first novel, Native Fear, into cart*
February 11, 2024
Cosmic horror has always been a favorite of mine, and this book scratched that itch. Not a long read and definitely worth it, though it is a little disappointing that the longest story is (in my opinion) the weakest. The first and last entries, however, are perfect examples of that unfathomable cosmic horror that leaves you desperately wanting to know more, while knowing that more explanation would be a disservice.
I sincerely hope his next book Nocturnium finds a publisher, since the small excerpt included in Orphans definitely has me hooked!
I sincerely hope his next book Nocturnium finds a publisher, since the small excerpt included in Orphans definitely has me hooked!
July 18, 2024
I’m going to give this 4.5 ⭐️
This collection was WEIRD and I mean that in weird as in amazing cosmic horror.
The authors words were deep. He didn’t just hand you a story - you had to really think and comprehend what he was telling you. The prose is definitely extraordinary.
Each story had me desperate to know what was going on and then else me with an intense ending. I wanted to choose my favorite in this collection and I really had to think hard about it as I enjoyed them all. I’m going with either The Boondoggle or Born of Blood.
This collection was WEIRD and I mean that in weird as in amazing cosmic horror.
The authors words were deep. He didn’t just hand you a story - you had to really think and comprehend what he was telling you. The prose is definitely extraordinary.
Each story had me desperate to know what was going on and then else me with an intense ending. I wanted to choose my favorite in this collection and I really had to think hard about it as I enjoyed them all. I’m going with either The Boondoggle or Born of Blood.
April 2, 2024
Thank you to the author for providing a review copy.
If you're a fan of cosmic horror in the vein of Thomas Ligotti, I think you'll definitely enjoy this collection. The stories are all really eerie. I hope C.F. Page finds a publisher for "Nocturnium," because I was intrigued by the excerpt. 3.75 stars
The Globster of Cape Frankfurt ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
The Boondoggle ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Born of Blood [A Love Story] ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Hand ⭐⭐⭐.5
Nocturnium ⭐⭐⭐
If you're a fan of cosmic horror in the vein of Thomas Ligotti, I think you'll definitely enjoy this collection. The stories are all really eerie. I hope C.F. Page finds a publisher for "Nocturnium," because I was intrigued by the excerpt. 3.75 stars
The Globster of Cape Frankfurt ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
The Boondoggle ⭐⭐⭐⭐.25
Born of Blood [A Love Story] ⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Hand ⭐⭐⭐.5
Nocturnium ⭐⭐⭐
January 3, 2024
Orphans of the Atercosm: A Collection by C. F. Page. If you are a fan of cosmic horror you will love this book. It consists of a prose poem, 3 short stories, a novelette and an excerpt from an upcoming novel. The prose poem wasn’t to my taste but loved the short stories and the novelette. My favorites being “The Globster of Cape Frankfurt” and “The Hand”. You should check it out….
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