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A Crow Named Torment
After a perfectly normal bird is captured
by a perfectly deranged alchemist,
and her soul is remade in torment,
she rots in a cage, dreading her doom,
awaiting the perfect moment …
Escape lies in the dark secrets of her new mind, as does a disturbing new thirst for blood.
Together with Vladimir, her feline companion in captivity, Torment sets out on a flight through realms of dreams and spirits in search of a way to break the curse that binds them to their master.
But in the vast and strange worlds yonder dwell the discontented spirits of the dead, and Torment and Vladimir are as likely to uncover the truth they seek as they are to be lost forever, or consumed by the ancient darkness stirring in the depths of their alchemically altered souls.
A novel filled with horrors lurking in the shadows, with whimsical creatures from surreal dimensions – a fable about journeys inward and onward into the unknown – featuring mad scholars, vampires from the dawn of time, animal familiars and giant slugs (among many other oddities).
Perfect for fans of Terry Pratchett and Edgar Allan Poe, lovers of Richard Bach’s Jonathan Livingston Seagull and Otfried Preußler’s Krabat, for those who would like to see Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland meet Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a modern dark fantasy.
by a perfectly deranged alchemist,
and her soul is remade in torment,
she rots in a cage, dreading her doom,
awaiting the perfect moment …
Escape lies in the dark secrets of her new mind, as does a disturbing new thirst for blood.
Together with Vladimir, her feline companion in captivity, Torment sets out on a flight through realms of dreams and spirits in search of a way to break the curse that binds them to their master.
But in the vast and strange worlds yonder dwell the discontented spirits of the dead, and Torment and Vladimir are as likely to uncover the truth they seek as they are to be lost forever, or consumed by the ancient darkness stirring in the depths of their alchemically altered souls.
A novel filled with horrors lurking in the shadows, with whimsical creatures from surreal dimensions – a fable about journeys inward and onward into the unknown – featuring mad scholars, vampires from the dawn of time, animal familiars and giant slugs (among many other oddities).
Perfect for fans of Terry Pratchett and Edgar Allan Poe, lovers of Richard Bach’s Jonathan Livingston Seagull and Otfried Preußler’s Krabat, for those who would like to see Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland meet Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein in a modern dark fantasy.
403 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
9 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Silas A. Bischoff
1 book5 followersSilas Bischoff, the author behind Morbid Taste Publishing, lives in Duisburg, Germany, with his wife and dog. An all-around geek, he immerses himself in Sci-Fi and Fantasy, physics, computer technology, roleplaying games, and everything weird, dark, and eerie.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
October 26, 2024
This book is a nice dive into the world of gothic fiction, hitting all the best parts of the genre. The language is really well-crafted and poetic and it matches perfectly with the haunting vibe of the story. Each page has this eerie feel, with moody and atmospheric details that make for a classic gothic read. It’s clear that the author put a lot of thought into creating the dark, surreal world, and it really pulls you in. It reminded me a little bit of Alice: Madness Returns, one of my favorite games. The story has this dreamy yet sinister feel that makes it easy to picture as an indie game, with intricate, mysterious scenes that unfold slowly.
The language, while beautiful, does need your full attention, especially if English isn’t your first language. I found myself needing to slow down at certain parts and really focus, which sometimes stretched out the reading pace. It’s the type of book that wants you to take your time, reading slowly to fully enjoy its unique style. I could only read a chapter a day before I’d start to lose focus.
Overall, this novel is a great addition to gothic literature.
The language, while beautiful, does need your full attention, especially if English isn’t your first language. I found myself needing to slow down at certain parts and really focus, which sometimes stretched out the reading pace. It’s the type of book that wants you to take your time, reading slowly to fully enjoy its unique style. I could only read a chapter a day before I’d start to lose focus.
Overall, this novel is a great addition to gothic literature.
October 6, 2024
This book surprised me in the best ways. First, it's perfect reading for this season, so run and get your copy. There are a few illustrations throughout, and that cover!
We follow Torment a crow who goes on an interesting journey to find her freedom from the alchemist who changed her from an ordinary crow into something more. Along the way, she discovers more about her new self as her journey takes us into interesting landscapes with her cat companion, Vladimir. Great characters, great writing, and an all-around great story!
*thank you Silas for this ARC
We follow Torment a crow who goes on an interesting journey to find her freedom from the alchemist who changed her from an ordinary crow into something more. Along the way, she discovers more about her new self as her journey takes us into interesting landscapes with her cat companion, Vladimir. Great characters, great writing, and an all-around great story!
*thank you Silas for this ARC
August 30, 2024
First of all the writing style is excellent and so immersive. It’s witty at times as well. I loved Torment and I constantly found myself rooting for her amidst all the inward and outward challenges. If you’re a lover of grimdark, gothic and the macabre this is a novel for you. Dare I say I even found it “romantic” in that gothic type of way, the writing was beautiful. This is now an auto-buy author for me!
October 11, 2024
A Crow Named Torment by Silas A. Bischoff - A Dark Gothic Fantasy Gem
"A Crow Named Torment" is a captivating dark gothic fantasy that immediately draws readers into its richly crafted world. Silas A. Bischoff's immersive writing style seamlessly introduces us to a realm where the ordinary becomes extraordinary.
The story follows Torment, an ordinary crow whose life takes a dramatic turn when she ventures too close to a deranged alchemist. Falling under the alchemist's control, Torment is forced to embark on an unexpected inward journey. Accompanied by her feline companion, Vlad, she delves deep into the recesses of her own mind, uncovering secrets not only about the mysterious alchemist but also about herself.
Bischoff's world-building is masterful, creating an atmosphere that is both intriguing and unsettling. The dynamic between Torment and Vlad adds depth to the narrative, offering moments of lightness in an otherwise dark tale.
This novel will appeal to fans of gothic literature who appreciate psychological depth in their fantasy.
"A Crow Named Torment" is a captivating dark gothic fantasy that immediately draws readers into its richly crafted world. Silas A. Bischoff's immersive writing style seamlessly introduces us to a realm where the ordinary becomes extraordinary.
The story follows Torment, an ordinary crow whose life takes a dramatic turn when she ventures too close to a deranged alchemist. Falling under the alchemist's control, Torment is forced to embark on an unexpected inward journey. Accompanied by her feline companion, Vlad, she delves deep into the recesses of her own mind, uncovering secrets not only about the mysterious alchemist but also about herself.
Bischoff's world-building is masterful, creating an atmosphere that is both intriguing and unsettling. The dynamic between Torment and Vlad adds depth to the narrative, offering moments of lightness in an otherwise dark tale.
This novel will appeal to fans of gothic literature who appreciate psychological depth in their fantasy.
December 6, 2024
It's high time I write this review since it's been almost two months since I've read it and I've been trying to be better about getting my reviews out. This book was part of my journey outside of my comfort zone since it had the potential to get a bit darker here and there than I'm usually comfortable with. I don't tend to mind that in a dark fantasy way but rather towards the horror side of things. As the author said though, this didn't get as dark as something else I was reading at the time so there was no need to worry.
This was a really interesting story. I don't read many books told from an animal's POV but this had a pretty neat setup. I enjoyed the writing style and felt that it had a good flow, even in the sections that sometimes weren't quite for me. You do have to pay attention to it though or you'll miss some cool details. The world building is what really set this story apart. While it was a little too out there for me at some points, overall I would say that is its best selling point for people that enjoy something away from the straight and narrow of many other fantasy worlds that tend to have less surprises.
This was a really interesting story. I don't read many books told from an animal's POV but this had a pretty neat setup. I enjoyed the writing style and felt that it had a good flow, even in the sections that sometimes weren't quite for me. You do have to pay attention to it though or you'll miss some cool details. The world building is what really set this story apart. While it was a little too out there for me at some points, overall I would say that is its best selling point for people that enjoy something away from the straight and narrow of many other fantasy worlds that tend to have less surprises.
October 7, 2024
𝐌𝐲 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 𝟓 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝𝐧'𝐭 𝐛𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐛𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐈 𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐥 𝐢𝐧 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐠𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐜, 𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐟𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐬𝐲.
It's incredible to think that this is Silas A. Bischoff's debut novel; many seasoned authors would aspire to write as well as he does (no disrespect to them- all praise to Bischoff). Definitely will be one of my auto-buy authors.
⋇⋆✦⋆⋇
I'm so glad I picked up this book during the fall- it’s the perfect read for this cozy, moody season. I quickly fell in love with Torment and Vladimir, and definitely developed a strong dislike for Phileander.
The writing is impeccable and immersive, pulling me deep into the characters’ world right from the start. I was hooked within the first few pages, which says a lot, considering I usually struggle to dive into (high) fantasy books quickly. It typically takes me several chapters to get fully invested in the story or connected to the characters.
The story follows Torment and Vladimir as they journey through realms of dreams and spirits, seeking a way to break the curse that binds them to their master. Along the way, they encounter new companions, uncover painful truths, and wrestle with their own inner demons.
By the time I finished, I didn’t want it to end (and dare I say, there’s a hint of an open-ending that might lead to future tales of the realms of dreams and spirits?).
I highly recommend A Crow Named Torment to any fantasy or high fantasy fan, especially those who want to be moved and deeply touched by a story.
⋇⋆✦⋆⋇
・❥・𝐅𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐪𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤:
"𝘛𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘴𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦. 𝘏𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 - 𝘪𝘵 𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘵. 𝘏𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦."
"𝘈 𝘥𝘢𝘮 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘯. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘧 𝘧𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘩 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘶𝘴. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘰 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘗𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳. 𝘕𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘛𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵, 𝘢 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘸'𝘴 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘰𝘧 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯, 𝘢 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘵'𝘴 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘰𝘧 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘰𝘧 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘭𝘭-𝘔𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘶𝘱 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘬𝘺. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘵; 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘺, 𝘸𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴, 𝘴𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘥."
⋇⋆✦⋆⋇
Thank you to author Silas A. Bischoff for kindly gifting me his book. Although no review or promotion was requested, I was thrilled to read it and share my honest thoughts in return for such a generous gesture. I had hoped to finish it before the release, but unfortunately, my schedule didn’t allow it.
It's incredible to think that this is Silas A. Bischoff's debut novel; many seasoned authors would aspire to write as well as he does (no disrespect to them- all praise to Bischoff). Definitely will be one of my auto-buy authors.
⋇⋆✦⋆⋇
I'm so glad I picked up this book during the fall- it’s the perfect read for this cozy, moody season. I quickly fell in love with Torment and Vladimir, and definitely developed a strong dislike for Phileander.
The writing is impeccable and immersive, pulling me deep into the characters’ world right from the start. I was hooked within the first few pages, which says a lot, considering I usually struggle to dive into (high) fantasy books quickly. It typically takes me several chapters to get fully invested in the story or connected to the characters.
The story follows Torment and Vladimir as they journey through realms of dreams and spirits, seeking a way to break the curse that binds them to their master. Along the way, they encounter new companions, uncover painful truths, and wrestle with their own inner demons.
By the time I finished, I didn’t want it to end (and dare I say, there’s a hint of an open-ending that might lead to future tales of the realms of dreams and spirits?).
I highly recommend A Crow Named Torment to any fantasy or high fantasy fan, especially those who want to be moved and deeply touched by a story.
⋇⋆✦⋆⋇
・❥・𝐅𝐚𝐯𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐞 𝐪𝐮𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤:
"𝘛𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘴𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘺 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦. 𝘏𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘤𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 - 𝘪𝘵 𝘯𝘦𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘪𝘵. 𝘏𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦."
"𝘈 𝘥𝘢𝘮 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘳𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘯. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘢 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘰𝘧 𝘧𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘩 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢 𝘩𝘰𝘮𝘶𝘯𝘤𝘶𝘭𝘶𝘴. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘰 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘗𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘢𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘸 𝘮𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘳. 𝘕𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘛𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵, 𝘢 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘸'𝘴 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘰𝘧 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘸𝘰𝘮𝘢𝘯, 𝘢 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘪𝘵'𝘴 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘰𝘧 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮 𝘰𝘧 𝘣𝘦𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘭𝘭-𝘔𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘶𝘱 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘬𝘺. 𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦 𝘰𝘧 𝘰𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘵; 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘲𝘶𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘮𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘺, 𝘸𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘩𝘦𝘳. 𝘈𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴, 𝘴𝘰 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘱𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘪𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘥."
⋇⋆✦⋆⋇
Thank you to author Silas A. Bischoff for kindly gifting me his book. Although no review or promotion was requested, I was thrilled to read it and share my honest thoughts in return for such a generous gesture. I had hoped to finish it before the release, but unfortunately, my schedule didn’t allow it.
November 14, 2025
A Crow Named Torment – Silas A. Bischoff
I first became aware of Bischoff and this novel at FantasyCon 2025 in Chester. After hearing a reading from the opening, I bought a copy. I read it earlier this year, and could have sworn I’d already uploaded a brief review of it, but I can’t find it anywhere. Somewhat belatedly ,then, here are some of my thoughts.
First of all, what captured me immediately in the reading was the language and this gothic world it quickly built. Then there was the events captured within it – a man feeding a crow some flesh which gave it the ability the speak, while observed by a peculiar cat. This man, it turns out, is out antagonist, Phileander, and the cat is Vlad, who accompanies the titular crow, Torment on what becomes a great adventure.
As Torment seeks escape from Phileander’s clutches (for Phileander is plotting some pretty awful things which will almost certainly result in Torment’s demise) he learns to look inwards and enter another plane of dreams where he seeks the solution to his problem and the strength to put it into effect. A minor gripe with stories that take place within the mind is whether there are any great stakes, for you can usually exit this other existence, but pretty early on we’re introduced to another person who is stuck within this dreamworld.
I’ve seen comparisons made between this novel and Alice in Wonderland (or Alice in Wonderland in the hands of Poe) and that’s a perfectly valid comparison. The gothic tome remains throughout, but the strange and often delightful characters that Torment and Vlad meet, and the situations they find themselves in would not be out of the place in Carroll’s Wonderland. Only these guys are more likely to spontaneously combust.
It's not necessarily the type of book I’d normally read, being more of a dark fantasy that traditional horror, but the world is very well realised. I admired the writing and the story’s construction, and very much felt that someone who was a huge fan of this genre would almost certainly find this an absolute delight. I could very much imagine someone telling me this was one of their favourite books of the year, particularly with some of the philosophical musings within the text.
I found it very enjoyable (plus the whole book is an absolute delight to look at) and in particular, I enjoyed the interactions between Torment and Vlad.
4.5*
I first became aware of Bischoff and this novel at FantasyCon 2025 in Chester. After hearing a reading from the opening, I bought a copy. I read it earlier this year, and could have sworn I’d already uploaded a brief review of it, but I can’t find it anywhere. Somewhat belatedly ,then, here are some of my thoughts.
First of all, what captured me immediately in the reading was the language and this gothic world it quickly built. Then there was the events captured within it – a man feeding a crow some flesh which gave it the ability the speak, while observed by a peculiar cat. This man, it turns out, is out antagonist, Phileander, and the cat is Vlad, who accompanies the titular crow, Torment on what becomes a great adventure.
As Torment seeks escape from Phileander’s clutches (for Phileander is plotting some pretty awful things which will almost certainly result in Torment’s demise) he learns to look inwards and enter another plane of dreams where he seeks the solution to his problem and the strength to put it into effect. A minor gripe with stories that take place within the mind is whether there are any great stakes, for you can usually exit this other existence, but pretty early on we’re introduced to another person who is stuck within this dreamworld.
I’ve seen comparisons made between this novel and Alice in Wonderland (or Alice in Wonderland in the hands of Poe) and that’s a perfectly valid comparison. The gothic tome remains throughout, but the strange and often delightful characters that Torment and Vlad meet, and the situations they find themselves in would not be out of the place in Carroll’s Wonderland. Only these guys are more likely to spontaneously combust.
It's not necessarily the type of book I’d normally read, being more of a dark fantasy that traditional horror, but the world is very well realised. I admired the writing and the story’s construction, and very much felt that someone who was a huge fan of this genre would almost certainly find this an absolute delight. I could very much imagine someone telling me this was one of their favourite books of the year, particularly with some of the philosophical musings within the text.
I found it very enjoyable (plus the whole book is an absolute delight to look at) and in particular, I enjoyed the interactions between Torment and Vlad.
4.5*
September 29, 2024
Birschoff achieves a style reminiscent of high fantasy, old magic, and the beauty of how to use the English language in a way that is descriptive, immersive, and paints a scene so well it is difficult to be broken from. Throughout the novel you explore the inner workings and thoughts of Torment, a once normal crow, who is given the ability to think constructively. Imprisoned she seeks freedom but within Torment we see not a duality but specters that haunt her very inner workings.
Throughout the novel the exploration of Torment is done throughout the outer and inner world of the crow. The mind is represented as an evolving and expansive place and eventually a battleground of sorts. Facing this as a reader is looking at the idea that we all have the capability to reflect inwardly more than we do and imagine so much more than we do.
Outside of Torment there is a host of extraordinary characters, some loquacious, some not (at first) because of barriers but all equally capable of bringing ire in their own way. Especially Vlad who is frustrating and sarcastic and wonderful in his own way.
Overall I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves high fantasy and misses Weis, Hickman, Goodkind and Volsky, because while Birschoff doesn’t quite yet have their pedigree he showed true promise and talent with his debut novel.
Throughout the novel the exploration of Torment is done throughout the outer and inner world of the crow. The mind is represented as an evolving and expansive place and eventually a battleground of sorts. Facing this as a reader is looking at the idea that we all have the capability to reflect inwardly more than we do and imagine so much more than we do.
Outside of Torment there is a host of extraordinary characters, some loquacious, some not (at first) because of barriers but all equally capable of bringing ire in their own way. Especially Vlad who is frustrating and sarcastic and wonderful in his own way.
Overall I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves high fantasy and misses Weis, Hickman, Goodkind and Volsky, because while Birschoff doesn’t quite yet have their pedigree he showed true promise and talent with his debut novel.
November 11, 2024
This novel is like nothing I’ve ever read before.
The crow (named Torment) – Bischoff’s protagonist – is given a new level of intelligence by a mysterious and secretive benefactor. The Dr. Frankenstein-esque experiment gives Torment the ability to talk and process thoughts in a way she never had before. This benefactor’s main aim is to use Torment, indenturing her life to his for his nefarious purposes. Torment, using her new intelligence seeks to outwit and outmanoeuvre her master in order to be free from his clutches.
This books feels a lot like the movie Inception if it were written by Edgar Allen Poe. Torment learns to travel through these dark, layered dreamscapes to absorb as much about her master as she’s able.
I found the entire premise to be incredibly intriguing, and Bischoff’s prose is both complex and free flowing. The story was a pleasure to read.
It’s a story that’s well worth the time spent to read it, and the copy I had was the hardback which came with some gorgeous artwork by Hernan Conde de Boeck, adding a beautiful touch to the presentation.
The crow (named Torment) – Bischoff’s protagonist – is given a new level of intelligence by a mysterious and secretive benefactor. The Dr. Frankenstein-esque experiment gives Torment the ability to talk and process thoughts in a way she never had before. This benefactor’s main aim is to use Torment, indenturing her life to his for his nefarious purposes. Torment, using her new intelligence seeks to outwit and outmanoeuvre her master in order to be free from his clutches.
This books feels a lot like the movie Inception if it were written by Edgar Allen Poe. Torment learns to travel through these dark, layered dreamscapes to absorb as much about her master as she’s able.
I found the entire premise to be incredibly intriguing, and Bischoff’s prose is both complex and free flowing. The story was a pleasure to read.
It’s a story that’s well worth the time spent to read it, and the copy I had was the hardback which came with some gorgeous artwork by Hernan Conde de Boeck, adding a beautiful touch to the presentation.
February 9, 2025
Wat een bijzonder boek. Als ik het met iets zou moeten vergelijken dan denk ik aan Mordew van Alex Pheby wat even bevreemdend is. Het hoofdpersonage de kraai Torment is zo intens, de werelden waarin ze zich beweegt zo afwisselend en rijk beschreven. Ik viel voor de cover maar het hele boek is een schatkamer.
February 14, 2025
This book is a great debut, and is written very well. I love the way the author uses defamiliarisation when writing from the perspective of a bird in the earlier parts of the story. What starts out as a quirky and dark tale about alchemy turns more surreal as the story progresses, and one can see echoes of both old-school horror and surrealist classics such as Alice's Adventures in Wonderland that have been fused seamlessly (yet with a modern twist). The illustrations throughout the book are also a great touch and make this book stand out from others.
December 12, 2024
A great gothic fantasy novel—definitely gives off Poe vibes!
Our protagonist is Torment, a messenger crow for the Baroness of Quelm. Torment gets captured and “uplifted” by Phileander, a megalomaniac alchemist who seeks to harness the energy of Everstorm (an-ever brewing storm fed by a thread connecting it to the solar corona—the worldbuilding here is amazing!). Shortly after her forced evolution—which, among other things, gives her full control of her vocal cords—Torment discovers she isn’t the only uplifted animal in Phileander’s service.
Now she and the cat Vladimir must embark on a quest for the most important commodity in life: freedom.
Bischoff’s prose is saturated and ornate, as befits a gothic novel; the imagery is vivid and dreamy at the same time, bleeding from the page. The dialogue is often laced with dry wit (especially the banter between the cat and the crow). This is vintage port: don’t rush it, savor it, take it one chapter at a time. Welcome to the Yonderrealms beyond your imagination!
Our protagonist is Torment, a messenger crow for the Baroness of Quelm. Torment gets captured and “uplifted” by Phileander, a megalomaniac alchemist who seeks to harness the energy of Everstorm (an-ever brewing storm fed by a thread connecting it to the solar corona—the worldbuilding here is amazing!). Shortly after her forced evolution—which, among other things, gives her full control of her vocal cords—Torment discovers she isn’t the only uplifted animal in Phileander’s service.
Now she and the cat Vladimir must embark on a quest for the most important commodity in life: freedom.
Bischoff’s prose is saturated and ornate, as befits a gothic novel; the imagery is vivid and dreamy at the same time, bleeding from the page. The dialogue is often laced with dry wit (especially the banter between the cat and the crow). This is vintage port: don’t rush it, savor it, take it one chapter at a time. Welcome to the Yonderrealms beyond your imagination!
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