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Deadlights Duology #1
Mystery of the Pale King
"Tonight, my friends, the performance is real. To you, my most faithful, I dedicate this, the final production of 'The Mystery of the Pale King.'"
As an orphan growing up in a distant border province, Faron took pride in the epic tales of the Hero of Hathur, a great and powerful warrior who ruled in the name of the sun-worshipping Church of the Sol Creator. That pride is shattered by accusations from the Hero's family that he squandered their entire inheritance on the production of a profane play with him at the "The Mystery of the Pale King." The Church proclaims him under interdict and dispatches Bishop Antonius, his devoted page Faron, and a cadre of soldiers downriver to repossess Hathur on its behalf.
The cruelty they witness on their perilous mission forces them to confront the horrors at the heart of Hathur's past and question not just their devotion to the Church but their very beliefs in gods and heroes. Amid a storm of betrayal, murder, and sacrilege, Faron must survive fanatical cultists, their obscene rituals, and the evil hiding in the light in order to save Bishop Antonius from the Hero's final performance.
Inspired by the historical legend of Gilles de Rais, The Mystery of the Pale King probes the roots of modern American dysfunction in a grim flintlock fantasy setting that reflects the best and worst of humanity.
As an orphan growing up in a distant border province, Faron took pride in the epic tales of the Hero of Hathur, a great and powerful warrior who ruled in the name of the sun-worshipping Church of the Sol Creator. That pride is shattered by accusations from the Hero's family that he squandered their entire inheritance on the production of a profane play with him at the "The Mystery of the Pale King." The Church proclaims him under interdict and dispatches Bishop Antonius, his devoted page Faron, and a cadre of soldiers downriver to repossess Hathur on its behalf.
The cruelty they witness on their perilous mission forces them to confront the horrors at the heart of Hathur's past and question not just their devotion to the Church but their very beliefs in gods and heroes. Amid a storm of betrayal, murder, and sacrilege, Faron must survive fanatical cultists, their obscene rituals, and the evil hiding in the light in order to save Bishop Antonius from the Hero's final performance.
Inspired by the historical legend of Gilles de Rais, The Mystery of the Pale King probes the roots of modern American dysfunction in a grim flintlock fantasy setting that reflects the best and worst of humanity.
127 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2024
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September 12, 2024
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Mystery of the Pale King is a grimdark meets cosmic horror novella written by Sam Flynn, and published by Timber Ghost Press. A piece that blends together eldritch horror with an interesting examination over the figure of heroes and cults, all encapsulated into a well-layered flintlock grimdark fantasy, slowly unleashing the truth over the reader while chilling their bones.
As page to the Bishop Antonius, Faron is sent together with him to Hathur, as the Church of the Sol Creator has tasked them and a small armed force to repossess those lands in the name of the Church from the hands of the Hero of Hathur, a semi-mythical figure for Faron, who grew listening about his stories. All the reputation and the inheritance of the Hero and his family have been wasted on the production of a profane play, with the Hero playing the main role. A journey that will show the horrors that are part of Hathur's past, and that will put Faron at the limit, questioning not only his devotion to the Church, but his own identity while he tries to save the Bishop from Hathur's people.
A story that slowly submerges us into a highly atmospheric setting, whose past is intimately related to cosmic horror (a bit in the style of Yharnam or Bloodborne); a past that the Hero is trying to bring back. Faron, acting as our narrator, will have to be careful while trying to rescue the bishop from this place, but in the process, he will slowly understand the nature behind Hathur and the Church, putting his own identity at play.
Flynn weaves a smart examination over how the stories and the real person may differ (such as the case of the Hero), leading to even messianic conducts, while also taking a look over how organized religion can be oppressive against identity. The atmosphere is carefully crafted, slowly creating that sensation of something wrong at the start, and shocking us once we get the first glimpses of what is happening.
Mystery of the Pale King is an excellent novella, that shows the great potential of Sam Flynn as an author, perfect for those that are looking for an atmosphere similar to Bloodborne. Perfect for reading in a sit, I wonder if we would ever return to this world, as there is much potential to explore.
Mystery of the Pale King is a grimdark meets cosmic horror novella written by Sam Flynn, and published by Timber Ghost Press. A piece that blends together eldritch horror with an interesting examination over the figure of heroes and cults, all encapsulated into a well-layered flintlock grimdark fantasy, slowly unleashing the truth over the reader while chilling their bones.
As page to the Bishop Antonius, Faron is sent together with him to Hathur, as the Church of the Sol Creator has tasked them and a small armed force to repossess those lands in the name of the Church from the hands of the Hero of Hathur, a semi-mythical figure for Faron, who grew listening about his stories. All the reputation and the inheritance of the Hero and his family have been wasted on the production of a profane play, with the Hero playing the main role. A journey that will show the horrors that are part of Hathur's past, and that will put Faron at the limit, questioning not only his devotion to the Church, but his own identity while he tries to save the Bishop from Hathur's people.
A story that slowly submerges us into a highly atmospheric setting, whose past is intimately related to cosmic horror (a bit in the style of Yharnam or Bloodborne); a past that the Hero is trying to bring back. Faron, acting as our narrator, will have to be careful while trying to rescue the bishop from this place, but in the process, he will slowly understand the nature behind Hathur and the Church, putting his own identity at play.
Flynn weaves a smart examination over how the stories and the real person may differ (such as the case of the Hero), leading to even messianic conducts, while also taking a look over how organized religion can be oppressive against identity. The atmosphere is carefully crafted, slowly creating that sensation of something wrong at the start, and shocking us once we get the first glimpses of what is happening.
Mystery of the Pale King is an excellent novella, that shows the great potential of Sam Flynn as an author, perfect for those that are looking for an atmosphere similar to Bloodborne. Perfect for reading in a sit, I wonder if we would ever return to this world, as there is much potential to explore.
October 8, 2024
I love everything about this. From the format of the story itself to the little details such as word choices. While I couldn't find evidence of it being explicitly inspired by The King in Yellow, it gives off that same unsettling, disquiet, mysterious atmosphere. Every aspect of the story builds up on the other elements, from the characters and their secrets, to the mystery and the horror, to culture and history.
If you enjoy this genre - please give it a try! Seeing it read by so few makes me want to shove it down everyone's throats
If you enjoy this genre - please give it a try! Seeing it read by so few makes me want to shove it down everyone's throats
August 25, 2026
I love it so much. This book is very short but still holds a deep story with lots of worldbuilding. The world has some feel of soulslike game, I especially love these moments when protagonist says, if i chose this path instead I would die.
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March 22, 2026I read this novella for the indie novella competition, SFINCS. The following review is my own personal opinion as a judge and does not reflect the views of the team as a whole.
The Mystery of the Pale King by Sam Flynn is a dark fantasy novella with a narration style following lovecraftian traditions, reaching an ending that can easily described as cosmic horror-adjacent. In the starvation-stricken land of Yorgos, the Church and the King sends a bishop and his entourage (among them, the narrator, the page Faron) on a visit to Hathur, a southern province under the rule of the hero that conquered it. Rumor says it, the Hero squandered his riches and now his main activity is presenting performances of a play called “The Mystery of the Pale King” in open defiance of the Church and its god. The journey to Hathur quickly becomes horror-ridden for Faron, and arriving in the Hero’s city, he has to untangle stories from reality, secrets and pretenses from terrible truth, and survive the evil affecting the minds of the city.
I really enjoyed the narration and the slowly unfolding horror, the twists and turns in the mythology of the story, and also the many debates over faith, religion, and morality in the book. Lovers of these themes will find a worthy read in this one.
The Mystery of the Pale King by Sam Flynn is a dark fantasy novella with a narration style following lovecraftian traditions, reaching an ending that can easily described as cosmic horror-adjacent. In the starvation-stricken land of Yorgos, the Church and the King sends a bishop and his entourage (among them, the narrator, the page Faron) on a visit to Hathur, a southern province under the rule of the hero that conquered it. Rumor says it, the Hero squandered his riches and now his main activity is presenting performances of a play called “The Mystery of the Pale King” in open defiance of the Church and its god. The journey to Hathur quickly becomes horror-ridden for Faron, and arriving in the Hero’s city, he has to untangle stories from reality, secrets and pretenses from terrible truth, and survive the evil affecting the minds of the city.
I really enjoyed the narration and the slowly unfolding horror, the twists and turns in the mythology of the story, and also the many debates over faith, religion, and morality in the book. Lovers of these themes will find a worthy read in this one.
June 15, 2026
Excellent novella! I want to highlight the prose and atmosphere, plus the twists. I usually don't like church-stories but when it's written well and it let's me dive right into the story I don't mind. Will be looking out for more.
January 15, 2025
Absolutely loved it. Would have enjoyed it in a long format as well. Kept me on edge the entire time. The word selection is on point. It's really amazing. I was already looking for other books from the same universe. Can't wait to see what comes next.
August 29, 2024
This is one of Timber Ghost Press's best releases to date. Mystery of the Pale King is a rather special retelling of The King in Yellow, one that does great service to the original. Sam Flynn writes with the confidence of a seasoned writer, which is all the more impressive when taking on such a beloved classic. The atmosphere of the writing sucks you in from page one and forces you to want to finish in one go, which I absolutely did. The horror builds slowly and deliciously, with the kind of pacing you'd expect of someone much more experienced in the craft. Overall, I couldn't have asked for a better debut from Sam Flynn and am already looking forward to more in the future. Thank you to Timber Ghost Press for allowing me to review this early.
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December 1, 2025Original review on Before We Go Blog: https://beforewegoblog.com/sfincs-rev...
Cosmic horror in a secondary world seems in many ways like an ill-fitting match. So much of the weirdness of the genre depends on the contrast of the deep fantastic against a deceptively mundane world. Yet the early pulps, where cosmic horror found purchase, are filled with secondary universes and fantastical or science fictional realms. In the right hands, the high weirdness of cosmic horror’s cultists, eldritch entities, and chaotic universes can be contrasted very effectively against what passes for normal in a secondary world. Happily, The Mystery of the Pale King achieves this very well. The Early Medievalesque setting that Sam Flynn uses to construct the claustrophobic atmosphere and religious tension in Pale King opens the work up to a wider pool of potential readers, while also commenting on and subverting audience expectation when it comes to epic fantasy conventions. I recommend it to fans of eldritch or cosmic horror, as well as grimdark medievalism. For any cosmic horror fans with their tentacular appendages slipping deep inside the Mythos, I’ll further recommend it to acolytes of Hastur, The King in Yellow (though I confess that I myself am pledged to the Crawling Chaos).
The Mystery of the Pale King is recounted in retrospect by a page named Faron, and concerns Faron’s journey with the bishop he serves to a community of recidivist pagans. From the get, the audience is clued in that all is not what it seems and that the Church’s official account of Bishop Antonius’s failure in the community of Hathur is more complex than they are letting on and that they are, perhaps, slandering him in order to distract from their own corruption. Essentially, the church of the god Sol (a Christian analogue), has recently converted the people of Hathur, in part due to the efforts of the man now ruling as its heroic king. However, disturbing rumours of the Hero’s reversion to paganism, along with his scandalous use of the kingdom’s coffers to fund nightly productions of a play called, “The Mystery of the Pale King,” have drawn the Church’s ire. Antonius has been sent to investigate along with a branch of the Church’s army. Once Faron and Antonius arrive, it becomes clear that the Hero and his play are hiding much darker secrets. Children all over the kingdom have vanished and Faron suspects human sacrifice. Even worse, beneath the surface of the community’s reversion lies a yet more troubling truth: the “Pale King” worshipped by the Hero is actively hostile toward the native pagans and harbours a bloodthirst that is both otherworldly and bizarrely linked to the Church itself.
Since Pale King is in many ways a mystery, and since part of the joy of reading in this case involves following the story’s threads to the heart of its web, I’ll leave my summary of the plot at that. It is worth mentioning, however, that, as suggested in my opening paragraph, Flynn makes reference to eldritch deities from the cosmic horror canon that include the god Hastur (popularized by Robert Chambers, H. P. Lovecraft, and August Derleth), and, somewhat unexpectedly, the Deadlights of Stephen King. The cosmic horror elements of the story are handled very well throughout and you can perfectly feel that Pale King was written firmly within a particular tradition.
The character work throughout is also largely satisfying. Faron is a compelling narrator and his affection and admiration for Bishop Antonius is sufficiently convincing that it becomes easy to care for the pair of them as you read along. Both characters are outcasts to some degree, and both share mysterious pasts whose details are only revealed at the novella’s climax. For his part, Antonius is disenchanted with the Church’s corruption, as well as its wealth, and comes across as a little Franciscan in terms of his worldview. Faron, who comes from a humble background, is likewise likeable. To some degree, this is especially important, since the threat of Antonius and Faron’s own moral ruination hangs over the narrative. For the reader to have a vested interest in this, we have to have an emotional stake in their morality early on. Additional, queer elements of the plot were well-handled and similarly enriched the narrative.
“Deep within, a question echoed as if trapped in a cave. ‘Do you think the Creator is punishing us?'”
The central thesis of cosmic horror is arguably that the universe is, at best, completely uncaring. Humankind is not special in any way, and indeed, it is far better to pass through life unnoticed by more powerful, godlike forces than it is to be recognized. This remains true in Pale King, which, though not entirely bleak, is a very dark take on religion (but especially, organized religion and religious affiliation). Readers looking for a finely-detailed look at some of the weirder aspects of real-world Early Medieval religious expression are, however, unlikely to find that here. As is often the case in the genre, the Church or Sol and its pagan precursor are painted largely in broad, didactic strokes. While Pale King is thus, in many ways, a deconstruction and critique of grand heroic mythmaking, due to the novella’s generic roots, that deconstruction is less about reweirding existing religious practices through a recognition of the ways early Christianity and its forebears rarely correspond to our popular representation of them, and more about the rendering of all religion as something terrifyingly alien.
While I enjoyed Pale King‘s mysteries and horrors, I did feel that its end stumbled somewhat. Flynn successfully builds toward a dramatic conclusion, with the titular play left mysterious till the novella’s shattering end. Yet, when that end comes, it’s so full of bombast and revelation that it veers a little too wildly toward soap opera. There are so many individual reveals, twists, and developments that the dialogue becomes slightly overburdened at a moment when to maintain tension it ought to feel tight, and sometimes the descriptions of the grand set pieces–though very cool–hurt clarity. The novella is generally very very well written and edited, with a style that reads like a modern update to the often dense pulps, but there are also some tense issues early on–specifically the failure to use the past perfect when sometimes necessary. Small quibbles like this, including Faron’s use of “Bishop” as though it were a name instead of a title or occupation, pulled me out on occasion early in the story. The tighter Pale King gripped me, however, the less I noticed these things. Indeed, the very fact that I kept getting pulled back to the novella, wondering what was going to happen or what horrors awaited poor Faron, is a huge mark in its favour.
I remain very impressed by Pale King and was excited to see that Flynn has a follow-up, Dweller in Darkness, due for release in 2026 from Timber Ghost Press. A welcome addition to the cosmic horror genre, The Mystery of the Pale King impresses with its command of the subgenre, its intriguing characters, and its thrilling pace. Sam Flynn is an author to watch!
Cosmic horror in a secondary world seems in many ways like an ill-fitting match. So much of the weirdness of the genre depends on the contrast of the deep fantastic against a deceptively mundane world. Yet the early pulps, where cosmic horror found purchase, are filled with secondary universes and fantastical or science fictional realms. In the right hands, the high weirdness of cosmic horror’s cultists, eldritch entities, and chaotic universes can be contrasted very effectively against what passes for normal in a secondary world. Happily, The Mystery of the Pale King achieves this very well. The Early Medievalesque setting that Sam Flynn uses to construct the claustrophobic atmosphere and religious tension in Pale King opens the work up to a wider pool of potential readers, while also commenting on and subverting audience expectation when it comes to epic fantasy conventions. I recommend it to fans of eldritch or cosmic horror, as well as grimdark medievalism. For any cosmic horror fans with their tentacular appendages slipping deep inside the Mythos, I’ll further recommend it to acolytes of Hastur, The King in Yellow (though I confess that I myself am pledged to the Crawling Chaos).
The Mystery of the Pale King is recounted in retrospect by a page named Faron, and concerns Faron’s journey with the bishop he serves to a community of recidivist pagans. From the get, the audience is clued in that all is not what it seems and that the Church’s official account of Bishop Antonius’s failure in the community of Hathur is more complex than they are letting on and that they are, perhaps, slandering him in order to distract from their own corruption. Essentially, the church of the god Sol (a Christian analogue), has recently converted the people of Hathur, in part due to the efforts of the man now ruling as its heroic king. However, disturbing rumours of the Hero’s reversion to paganism, along with his scandalous use of the kingdom’s coffers to fund nightly productions of a play called, “The Mystery of the Pale King,” have drawn the Church’s ire. Antonius has been sent to investigate along with a branch of the Church’s army. Once Faron and Antonius arrive, it becomes clear that the Hero and his play are hiding much darker secrets. Children all over the kingdom have vanished and Faron suspects human sacrifice. Even worse, beneath the surface of the community’s reversion lies a yet more troubling truth: the “Pale King” worshipped by the Hero is actively hostile toward the native pagans and harbours a bloodthirst that is both otherworldly and bizarrely linked to the Church itself.
Since Pale King is in many ways a mystery, and since part of the joy of reading in this case involves following the story’s threads to the heart of its web, I’ll leave my summary of the plot at that. It is worth mentioning, however, that, as suggested in my opening paragraph, Flynn makes reference to eldritch deities from the cosmic horror canon that include the god Hastur (popularized by Robert Chambers, H. P. Lovecraft, and August Derleth), and, somewhat unexpectedly, the Deadlights of Stephen King. The cosmic horror elements of the story are handled very well throughout and you can perfectly feel that Pale King was written firmly within a particular tradition.
The character work throughout is also largely satisfying. Faron is a compelling narrator and his affection and admiration for Bishop Antonius is sufficiently convincing that it becomes easy to care for the pair of them as you read along. Both characters are outcasts to some degree, and both share mysterious pasts whose details are only revealed at the novella’s climax. For his part, Antonius is disenchanted with the Church’s corruption, as well as its wealth, and comes across as a little Franciscan in terms of his worldview. Faron, who comes from a humble background, is likewise likeable. To some degree, this is especially important, since the threat of Antonius and Faron’s own moral ruination hangs over the narrative. For the reader to have a vested interest in this, we have to have an emotional stake in their morality early on. Additional, queer elements of the plot were well-handled and similarly enriched the narrative.
“Deep within, a question echoed as if trapped in a cave. ‘Do you think the Creator is punishing us?'”
The central thesis of cosmic horror is arguably that the universe is, at best, completely uncaring. Humankind is not special in any way, and indeed, it is far better to pass through life unnoticed by more powerful, godlike forces than it is to be recognized. This remains true in Pale King, which, though not entirely bleak, is a very dark take on religion (but especially, organized religion and religious affiliation). Readers looking for a finely-detailed look at some of the weirder aspects of real-world Early Medieval religious expression are, however, unlikely to find that here. As is often the case in the genre, the Church or Sol and its pagan precursor are painted largely in broad, didactic strokes. While Pale King is thus, in many ways, a deconstruction and critique of grand heroic mythmaking, due to the novella’s generic roots, that deconstruction is less about reweirding existing religious practices through a recognition of the ways early Christianity and its forebears rarely correspond to our popular representation of them, and more about the rendering of all religion as something terrifyingly alien.
While I enjoyed Pale King‘s mysteries and horrors, I did feel that its end stumbled somewhat. Flynn successfully builds toward a dramatic conclusion, with the titular play left mysterious till the novella’s shattering end. Yet, when that end comes, it’s so full of bombast and revelation that it veers a little too wildly toward soap opera. There are so many individual reveals, twists, and developments that the dialogue becomes slightly overburdened at a moment when to maintain tension it ought to feel tight, and sometimes the descriptions of the grand set pieces–though very cool–hurt clarity. The novella is generally very very well written and edited, with a style that reads like a modern update to the often dense pulps, but there are also some tense issues early on–specifically the failure to use the past perfect when sometimes necessary. Small quibbles like this, including Faron’s use of “Bishop” as though it were a name instead of a title or occupation, pulled me out on occasion early in the story. The tighter Pale King gripped me, however, the less I noticed these things. Indeed, the very fact that I kept getting pulled back to the novella, wondering what was going to happen or what horrors awaited poor Faron, is a huge mark in its favour.
I remain very impressed by Pale King and was excited to see that Flynn has a follow-up, Dweller in Darkness, due for release in 2026 from Timber Ghost Press. A welcome addition to the cosmic horror genre, The Mystery of the Pale King impresses with its command of the subgenre, its intriguing characters, and its thrilling pace. Sam Flynn is an author to watch!
Read
October 26, 2025Read for SFINCS3, RTC!
August 7, 2024
I'm a bad reader. It's true. Give me a book and I'll often find myself drifting off into space or pull out my phone and begin swiping through YouTube shorts. Like many of my former projects, I have abandoned books halfway through, never again opening the pages.
Every once and a while, however, I find a book that ticks all the right boxes at all the right times and I get sucked in.
The Mystery of the Pale King by Sam Flynn is one of those books.
I could barely put it down. Like an eldritch horror, it consumed my consciousness with every waking moment. Whenever I had to do something else, the book sat in the back of my mind, willing me to pick it up again. I wanted nothing more than to fall into its pages and be consumed.
The prose is simple but enthralling. The story pulls you through twists and turns that keep you on the hook. The characters are superbly written with realistic motivations. The worldbuilding is subtle and not thrown in your face and things aren't over-explained.
The result is a horrifically brilliant book that touches on themes of childhood trauma, religion and colonisation in ways that don't feel too heavy and forced.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Every once and a while, however, I find a book that ticks all the right boxes at all the right times and I get sucked in.
The Mystery of the Pale King by Sam Flynn is one of those books.
I could barely put it down. Like an eldritch horror, it consumed my consciousness with every waking moment. Whenever I had to do something else, the book sat in the back of my mind, willing me to pick it up again. I wanted nothing more than to fall into its pages and be consumed.
The prose is simple but enthralling. The story pulls you through twists and turns that keep you on the hook. The characters are superbly written with realistic motivations. The worldbuilding is subtle and not thrown in your face and things aren't over-explained.
The result is a horrifically brilliant book that touches on themes of childhood trauma, religion and colonisation in ways that don't feel too heavy and forced.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 2, 2026
This is a hidden gem of a dark fantasy. Flynn seamlessly takes the reader from a fairly typical fantasy tale into something closer to a Lovecraftian horror, sprinkled with glimpses of Marlon Brando in The Island of Doctor Moreau and a hint of Stephen King’s It. That’s a concoction I am here for!
We follow Faron, the page of Bishop (an actual Bishop) who is being sent by the church to deal with The Hero of Hathur. The Hero is running his lands dry financing a play, the titular Mystery of the Pale King. Who or what is the Pale King? Why is he risking everything for this play in a Caligula-esque display?
Flynn has a knack for creating atmosphere that I haven’t seen in many books, and painting vivid images in the mind that is deeply unsettling at times. All while weaving in little hints to later reveals that land with excellent impact.
I’d recommend this to anyone who enjoys classic horror, dark fantasy or the weird. It is criminal that more people haven’t read this!
We follow Faron, the page of Bishop (an actual Bishop) who is being sent by the church to deal with The Hero of Hathur. The Hero is running his lands dry financing a play, the titular Mystery of the Pale King. Who or what is the Pale King? Why is he risking everything for this play in a Caligula-esque display?
Flynn has a knack for creating atmosphere that I haven’t seen in many books, and painting vivid images in the mind that is deeply unsettling at times. All while weaving in little hints to later reveals that land with excellent impact.
I’d recommend this to anyone who enjoys classic horror, dark fantasy or the weird. It is criminal that more people haven’t read this!
November 7, 2024
A dark, fantasy, horror novella made for quite an enjoyable read! The descriptions of scenes and various settings allowed for a strong imaginative visual to unfold. That, and it being paired with a feeling of unease in wondering what the truth is, and a desire to know more… remarkable!
The vocabulary alone is excellent and helped enhance the settings that unfolded within.
The format of the book was very enjoyable - straightforward, clear, and concise.
I look forward to further writings done by Flynn, and hope there is more to come following this novella, both in relation to this read and others!
Enjoyable year round, but dare I say it becomes a must read during the fall season? Perhaps it may!
The vocabulary alone is excellent and helped enhance the settings that unfolded within.
The format of the book was very enjoyable - straightforward, clear, and concise.
I look forward to further writings done by Flynn, and hope there is more to come following this novella, both in relation to this read and others!
Enjoyable year round, but dare I say it becomes a must read during the fall season? Perhaps it may!
August 21, 2026
Thank you to Book Sirens for the opportunity to read and review this book. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Those that enjoy traditional cosmic horror will love this book. That said, since cosmic horror can be hit or miss for me particularly when following the more traditional style of someone like Lovecraft, it took me about 25% of this relatively short novella to find my footing. This resulted in the 4 star rating instead of five.
Pros:
* The author has absolutely wonderful prose and voice—some of the best I've seen, even when considering larger traditionally published works.
* The setting felt richly developed. I really loved the flintlock aesthetic. It doesn't get used enough. The differing religions and customs felt believable and real.
* The horror elements invoked genuine dread.
Cons:
* Rocky start. A little slow and explanation heavy. This is often a problem with works of this length though.
Those that enjoy traditional cosmic horror will love this book. That said, since cosmic horror can be hit or miss for me particularly when following the more traditional style of someone like Lovecraft, it took me about 25% of this relatively short novella to find my footing. This resulted in the 4 star rating instead of five.
Pros:
* The author has absolutely wonderful prose and voice—some of the best I've seen, even when considering larger traditionally published works.
* The setting felt richly developed. I really loved the flintlock aesthetic. It doesn't get used enough. The differing religions and customs felt believable and real.
* The horror elements invoked genuine dread.
Cons:
* Rocky start. A little slow and explanation heavy. This is often a problem with works of this length though.
September 3, 2024
Where most fantasy tends to tread water and bask in embellishments, Flynn shoves you into a dark river of a plot and the whitecapped current pulls you along through a fascinating, creepy nightmare. Sharp characters and a rich setting made this a real pleasure to read, the kind of story that draws out your imagination to explore it but keeps one hand behind its back as the mystery unravels.
September 30, 2024
This was recommended by a friend of mine’s and I decided to give this short story a look.
I will admit there are parts that feel straight out of ASOIAF which did bother me, but the short story otherwise felt really cool and I loved the concept.
Overall if you’re looking for a short read I would recommend this.
I will admit there are parts that feel straight out of ASOIAF which did bother me, but the short story otherwise felt really cool and I loved the concept.
Overall if you’re looking for a short read I would recommend this.
June 10, 2026
I love eldritch horror. Give me: the unknown, apostasy/heresy, characters driven to insanity by some unknown source, cursed forests, and a dash of cosmic dread...and I'm practically salivating. The Mystery of the Pale King delivers on all of that except the cursed forest bit, which I can forgive.
I really enjoyed this novella, it felt like every line was written very intentionally with no room for wasted space. The author chose his words carefully, with a kind of precision that I find almost exclusive to this genre. I love a story focused on losing one's religion, and it's important to me that the author is able to convey the visceral, biting rage and disgust that go along with that disillusionment. Flynn did not disappoint, and I look forward to starting the second half of this duology!
Thank you for making both the first and second halves available for request through BookSirens!
I really enjoyed this novella, it felt like every line was written very intentionally with no room for wasted space. The author chose his words carefully, with a kind of precision that I find almost exclusive to this genre. I love a story focused on losing one's religion, and it's important to me that the author is able to convey the visceral, biting rage and disgust that go along with that disillusionment. Flynn did not disappoint, and I look forward to starting the second half of this duology!
Thank you for making both the first and second halves available for request through BookSirens!
Want to Read
September 17, 2024A grimdark horror fantasy? Not sure how I haven't heard of this one yet but it sounds right up my alley! I'll definitely be on the lookout for a copy when it comes out. Added to the ever expanding TBR pile;)
November 13, 2024
I loved this book! I really enjoyed the writing. I finished this in day. The writing style is very readable and the author did a great job at world building and making complex characters. I enjoyed the love craftian fantasy style. Please read this.
March 19, 2025
A read that encapsulates everything I love about dark fantasy and horror. 10/10 would recommend!
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August 19, 2024Thanks to the author and publisher for an advanced copy of the book!
This was a taut and compelling tale full of political intrigue, conspiracy, betrayal, and hidden horrors. Flynn's prose and worldbuilding flows with ease, even while exploring bigger themes like identity and belonging, and the dangers of blindly following orders. Fantastical, fun, dark, and thoughtful in equal measure.
This was a taut and compelling tale full of political intrigue, conspiracy, betrayal, and hidden horrors. Flynn's prose and worldbuilding flows with ease, even while exploring bigger themes like identity and belonging, and the dangers of blindly following orders. Fantastical, fun, dark, and thoughtful in equal measure.
September 7, 2026
This was a very unique blend of fantasy and cosmic horror. I really liked all the worldbuilding and lore the author was able to develop in such a short story. The beginning dragged a little, but the ending was very cool. I can't wait to read what happens next! I received a free copy of this story and write this review voluntarily.
March 9, 2025
This was a compelling and creepy story. It’s a quick read but Flynn still had time for interesting twists. The story reminded me of Conrad’s Heart of Darkness. Flynn showed his skill with themes about parentage and the impact of narcissistic fathers.I would recommend this book to horror fantasy fans that are interested in power, politics and betrayals.
August 27, 2024
This book takes you on an adventure unlike any other. The story is dark and mysterious, as suggested by the title, and it seamlessly blends elements of humor, history, psychology, and political commentary to cater to a wide range of interests. I found myself on the edge of my seat, eager to see how the plot would unfold.
May 23, 2026
This was a really good novella. I think the mix of the dark fantasy and cosmic horror was really well executed and the story was interesting and well paced.
Overall, I think that The Mystery of the Pale King is a hidden gem that readers interested in both grimdark fantasy and cosmic horror would enjoy.
Overall, I think that The Mystery of the Pale King is a hidden gem that readers interested in both grimdark fantasy and cosmic horror would enjoy.
September 30, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
4.5/5⭐ rounded up
This debut dark fantasy / horror novel from Sam Flynn was decidedly marvelous as a first outing. He had me hooked by the second line of the book:
Set in a harsh fictional fantasy world, Flynn’s complex and layered world-building is top notch. He effortlessly weaves together faith and politics, corruption and greed, and splashes it with a haunting mystery of a Hero-turned-murderous lord. Our narrator is sent as a devoted page accompanying their patron Bishop Antonius who may have an even darker mission (and past) than originally thought.
Elements of the story seem startlingly relevant to today’s current political turmoil, particularly that of the United States: abuse of power, a propagandized populace…
The story was satisfyingly concluded yet left just enough space for a follow up (which I would love to read more of. I want more of this world!!)
Flynn’s writing was singularly superb. He has his own very distinct style that just hints at classic Moorcock and Tanith Lee with a smidge of cosmic horror creeping in around the edges. I found myself thinking that I would have to file Flynn’s writing in with my favourite darker fantasy authors like China Mieville, Kij Johnson, Storm Constantine, Danielle Polansky, Gabrielle Squailia and the strong and engaging worlds of Robert V.S. Redick’s Fire Sacraments and Jemisin’s Broken Earth.
Flynn has a new devoted fan here. I look forward to his future efforts.
4.5/5⭐ rounded up
This debut dark fantasy / horror novel from Sam Flynn was decidedly marvelous as a first outing. He had me hooked by the second line of the book:
“Lies upon lies upon lies. To think, I once dreamt of being a priest.”
Set in a harsh fictional fantasy world, Flynn’s complex and layered world-building is top notch. He effortlessly weaves together faith and politics, corruption and greed, and splashes it with a haunting mystery of a Hero-turned-murderous lord. Our narrator is sent as a devoted page accompanying their patron Bishop Antonius who may have an even darker mission (and past) than originally thought.
“I had the worst affliction of all: I believed I was right.”
Elements of the story seem startlingly relevant to today’s current political turmoil, particularly that of the United States: abuse of power, a propagandized populace…
“What poison the Hero peddled could only take root in a sickly land, its people suffering a prolonged and fatal ailment. A people who embraced death and never let go.”
“Did they truly endorse his slavering for savagery, or were they simply ignorant to the evil lurking beneath the performance? A distinction without difference.”
The story was satisfyingly concluded yet left just enough space for a follow up (which I would love to read more of. I want more of this world!!)
Flynn’s writing was singularly superb. He has his own very distinct style that just hints at classic Moorcock and Tanith Lee with a smidge of cosmic horror creeping in around the edges. I found myself thinking that I would have to file Flynn’s writing in with my favourite darker fantasy authors like China Mieville, Kij Johnson, Storm Constantine, Danielle Polansky, Gabrielle Squailia and the strong and engaging worlds of Robert V.S. Redick’s Fire Sacraments and Jemisin’s Broken Earth.
Flynn has a new devoted fan here. I look forward to his future efforts.
August 5, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
4.5/5⭐ rounded up
This debut dark fantasy / horror novel from Sam Flynn was decidedly marvelous as a first outing. He had me hooked by the second line of the book:
Set in a harsh fictional fantasy world, Flynn’s complex and layered world-building is top notch. He effortlessly weaves together faith and politics, corruption and greed, and splashes it with a haunting mystery of a Hero-turned-murderous lord. Our narrator is sent as a devoted page accompanying their patron Bishop Antonius who may have an even darker mission (and past) than originally thought.
Elements of the story seem startlingly relevant to today’s current political turmoil, particularly that of the United States: abuse of power, a propagandized populace…
The story was satisfyingly concluded yet left just enough space for a follow up (which I would love to read more of. I want more of this world!!)
Flynn’s writing was singularly superb. He has his own very distinct style that just hints at classic Moorcock and Tanith Lee with a smidge of cosmic horror creeping in around the edges. I found myself thinking that I would have to file Flynn’s writing in with my favourite darker fantasy authors like China Mieville, Kij Johnson, Storm Constantine, Danielle Polansky, Gabrielle Squailia and the strong and engaging worlds of Robert V.S. Redick’s Fire Sacraments and Jemisin’s Broken Earth.
Flynn has a new devoted fan here. I look forward to his future efforts.
4.5/5⭐ rounded up
This debut dark fantasy / horror novel from Sam Flynn was decidedly marvelous as a first outing. He had me hooked by the second line of the book:
“Lies upon lies upon lies. To think, I once dreamt of being a priest.”
Set in a harsh fictional fantasy world, Flynn’s complex and layered world-building is top notch. He effortlessly weaves together faith and politics, corruption and greed, and splashes it with a haunting mystery of a Hero-turned-murderous lord. Our narrator is sent as a devoted page accompanying their patron Bishop Antonius who may have an even darker mission (and past) than originally thought.
“I had the worst affliction of all: I believed I was right.”
Elements of the story seem startlingly relevant to today’s current political turmoil, particularly that of the United States: abuse of power, a propagandized populace…
“What poison the Hero peddled could only take root in a sickly land, its people suffering a prolonged and fatal ailment. A people who embraced death and never let go.”
“Did they truly endorse his slavering for savagery, or were they simply ignorant to the evil lurking beneath the performance? A distinction without difference.”
The story was satisfyingly concluded yet left just enough space for a follow up (which I would love to read more of. I want more of this world!!)
Flynn’s writing was singularly superb. He has his own very distinct style that just hints at classic Moorcock and Tanith Lee with a smidge of cosmic horror creeping in around the edges. I found myself thinking that I would have to file Flynn’s writing in with my favourite darker fantasy authors like China Mieville, Kij Johnson, Storm Constantine, Danielle Polansky, Gabrielle Squailia and the strong and engaging worlds of Robert V.S. Redick’s Fire Sacraments and Jemisin’s Broken Earth.
Flynn has a new devoted fan here. I look forward to his future efforts.
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February 6, 2025This is a Small Spec Book Awards nominee!
June 10, 2025
Grimdark fantasy (genre defined by dark, morally complex themes, gritty environments, and frequently bleak or dystopian perspectives) is a genre I’d never heard of before picking up this novella from Sam Flynn.
This dark and complex tale deals with many themes that are so relevant today. Political and church corruption as well as simply wrestling with faith and all the struggles that entails. This is a book for the lover of horror and fantasy. Flynn is a ridiculously talented writer and if you enjoy these genres I think you’ll love it!
Version: Paperback (kindle version also available)
Disclaimer: I know the author.
This dark and complex tale deals with many themes that are so relevant today. Political and church corruption as well as simply wrestling with faith and all the struggles that entails. This is a book for the lover of horror and fantasy. Flynn is a ridiculously talented writer and if you enjoy these genres I think you’ll love it!
Version: Paperback (kindle version also available)
Disclaimer: I know the author.
September 17, 2024
Something is happening in the city of Hathur. The Church of the Sol Creator has sent a bishop to address the issue. The Bishop took a crew of soldiers and sailors along with his page.
I was given a review copy of The Mystery of the Pale King from the publisher for review purposes.
Faron, the page of Bishop Antonius, relates the story as it unfolds. The information before leaving the Blessed City, the travels to Hathur, and the events in the city after their arrival. It was a harrowing journey that resulted in the loss of much life.
Unknown powers were at play along with the list of half truths and out right lies that plagued those traveling in accordance with the dictates of the Sol Church. As the truths become known the true history of the region and the players involved becomes known.
The unfolding acts lead to a greater story than those directly involved until the entire kingdom is playing a part.
Sam Flynn tells a story in the first person looking back over time. The style is reminiscent of the story being told. He presents a wonderful telling of a story drawn from the concepts of the Cthulhu Mythos of H. P. Lovecraft.
The buildup throughout the story has similarities to the works of the telling of the King in Yellow with a certain level of Flynn’s own ingenuity. The way the story is told is in the manner that Lovecraft wove many of his tales.
I am a fan of Lovecraftian/cosmic horror, and Sam Flynn’s The Mystery of the Pale King gave me a new addition to that genre.
I recommend The Mystery of the Pale King to others who like to read about the slow decent into madness while peering into the depths of the unknown vastness of the cosmic creatures that are looking back at us.
You can read the complete review at https://guildmastergaming.blogspot.co...
I was given a review copy of The Mystery of the Pale King from the publisher for review purposes.
Faron, the page of Bishop Antonius, relates the story as it unfolds. The information before leaving the Blessed City, the travels to Hathur, and the events in the city after their arrival. It was a harrowing journey that resulted in the loss of much life.
Unknown powers were at play along with the list of half truths and out right lies that plagued those traveling in accordance with the dictates of the Sol Church. As the truths become known the true history of the region and the players involved becomes known.
The unfolding acts lead to a greater story than those directly involved until the entire kingdom is playing a part.
Sam Flynn tells a story in the first person looking back over time. The style is reminiscent of the story being told. He presents a wonderful telling of a story drawn from the concepts of the Cthulhu Mythos of H. P. Lovecraft.
The buildup throughout the story has similarities to the works of the telling of the King in Yellow with a certain level of Flynn’s own ingenuity. The way the story is told is in the manner that Lovecraft wove many of his tales.
I am a fan of Lovecraftian/cosmic horror, and Sam Flynn’s The Mystery of the Pale King gave me a new addition to that genre.
I recommend The Mystery of the Pale King to others who like to read about the slow decent into madness while peering into the depths of the unknown vastness of the cosmic creatures that are looking back at us.
You can read the complete review at https://guildmastergaming.blogspot.co...
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