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The Exiled
When several young girls are abducted from various locations in Edinburgh, Detective John Granger and his brother Alan, a reporter, investigate the cases from different directions. The abductor is cunning, always one step ahead, and the only clue he leaves behind at each scene are the brutalized corpses of black swans.
When the brothers' investigations finally converge at a farmhouse in Central Scotland, they catch a glimpse of where the girls have been taken, a place both far away yet close enough to touch. A land known throughout Scottish history with many Faerie, Elfheim, and the Astral Plane. It is a place of legend and horror, a myth. But the brothers soon discover it's real, and, to catch the abductor, they will have to cross over themselves.
To catch a killer, John and Alan Granger will have to battle the Cobbe, a strange and enigmatic creature that guards the realm, a creature of horrific power that demands a heavy price for entry into its world. The fate of both realms hangs in the balance…and time is running out...
When the brothers' investigations finally converge at a farmhouse in Central Scotland, they catch a glimpse of where the girls have been taken, a place both far away yet close enough to touch. A land known throughout Scottish history with many Faerie, Elfheim, and the Astral Plane. It is a place of legend and horror, a myth. But the brothers soon discover it's real, and, to catch the abductor, they will have to cross over themselves.
To catch a killer, John and Alan Granger will have to battle the Cobbe, a strange and enigmatic creature that guards the realm, a creature of horrific power that demands a heavy price for entry into its world. The fate of both realms hangs in the balance…and time is running out...
242 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 1, 2014
6 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
William Meikle
407 books1,849 followersI'm a Scottish writer, now living in Canada, with more than thirty novels published in the genre press and over 300 short story credits in thirteen countries.
My work has appeared in a number of professional anthologies and I have recent short story sales to NATURE Futures and Galaxy's Edge. When I'm not writing I play guitar, drink beer and dream of fortune and glory.
For an intro to me, my writing and my accent see my Youtube channel
My work has appeared in a number of professional anthologies and I have recent short story sales to NATURE Futures and Galaxy's Edge. When I'm not writing I play guitar, drink beer and dream of fortune and glory.
For an intro to me, my writing and my accent see my Youtube channel
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 3, 2025
This was a very trippy thriller. Leaned plenty into the supernatural, but not so hard as to make the story become disjointed between horror and thriller. Struck a very solid balance. And I loved the brotherly dynamics between our leads, Alan and John. One being a cop and the other a reporter, on top of their relation, gave a good amount of humor and carefree dialogue that flowed smoothly. Now the book really had my full attention attention for the first half, but then things sort of became a bit prolonged and dialogue-heavy. Just seemed like there wasn’t a great transition from the earlier to latter portions, which both had unique atmospheres and situations. However, the characters, unique premise, and top notch writing quality carried this experience very well, making up for any small shortcomings. William Meikle is a very good writer and this was a solid outing from him.
February 29, 2024
Entertaining fantasy listening ✨🏚
This kindle e-book novella is from my Kindle Unlimited account stand alone book.
I have listened to a number of books by William Meikle and not been disappointed.
A Scottish Highland story looking into the pass form the present. The characters are interesting and will developed. There is lots of action, misdirection, and violence racing to the conclusion.
I would recommend this novella and author to readers of fantasy haunting horror mystery novels. 2024
This kindle e-book novella is from my Kindle Unlimited account stand alone book.
I have listened to a number of books by William Meikle and not been disappointed.
A Scottish Highland story looking into the pass form the present. The characters are interesting and will developed. There is lots of action, misdirection, and violence racing to the conclusion.
I would recommend this novella and author to readers of fantasy haunting horror mystery novels. 2024
May 14, 2014
William Meikle out-grims the Brothers Grimm in this contemporary supernatural mystery novel, chronicling the manhunt for a madman who leaves mutilated black swans as bloody calling cards in a string of child abductions that will lead two brothers, a detective and a reporter, through the Veil and into the world of Scottish myth.....where the horror known as the Cobbe stands guard between our reality and the world of Faerie, collecting a monstrous toll from any who dare cross over.
No one delivers fast paced thrills and chills like William Meikle. A must-read for any fan of horror or truly dark fantasy.
Highest possible recommendation.
No one delivers fast paced thrills and chills like William Meikle. A must-read for any fan of horror or truly dark fantasy.
Highest possible recommendation.
October 12, 2014
4.5*
This starts off as a gritty detective tale, Jon Granger is investigating the disturbing case of missing young girls. At the scene of the disappearances, mutilated black swans are left. As more girls disappear he decides team up with his brother Alan, a reporter who is also investigating the story, to solve the mystery. Information leads them to a remote farmhouse that holds the key to where the girls have been taken.
A great read from Meikle, it went from gritty mystery to fantasy which is something I didn't expect. The switch in genres, the mythology and world building were all handled really well and even though the brothers travel between different worlds, Meikle manages to keep the story grounded. The mythology of the black swan was fresh and had me doing some research into it.
The two main characters, Jon and Alan, were strong points for me. Their relationship, non existent at the start, slowly developed in the story and ultimately you admired them both for how strong their brotherly bond was.
This should appeal to more than just horror fans as it successfully crosses multiple genres with ease. Highly recommended.
This starts off as a gritty detective tale, Jon Granger is investigating the disturbing case of missing young girls. At the scene of the disappearances, mutilated black swans are left. As more girls disappear he decides team up with his brother Alan, a reporter who is also investigating the story, to solve the mystery. Information leads them to a remote farmhouse that holds the key to where the girls have been taken.
A great read from Meikle, it went from gritty mystery to fantasy which is something I didn't expect. The switch in genres, the mythology and world building were all handled really well and even though the brothers travel between different worlds, Meikle manages to keep the story grounded. The mythology of the black swan was fresh and had me doing some research into it.
The two main characters, Jon and Alan, were strong points for me. Their relationship, non existent at the start, slowly developed in the story and ultimately you admired them both for how strong their brotherly bond was.
This should appeal to more than just horror fans as it successfully crosses multiple genres with ease. Highly recommended.
August 29, 2014
The Exiled is one of those books that I still can’t decide whether I liked it or not, some bits were good and some parts left me thinking, Woah just a minute I’m not much for that.
Started off quite well in the supernatural thriller vein, young girls missing and the remains of rare black swans found at each crime scene. John Grainger is investigating but seemingly a step ahead of the police is junior reporter Alan Grainger, brother of the grizzled detective.
The assailant seemingly vanishes into free air with his victim, leaving behind a blood soaked crime scene where the worst is feared immediately. The investigation leads out to Loch Leven and an alternate reality that has the brothers running from the law and something far worse.
Ok I was intrigued so far, characters were good but the Wizard of Oz moment that took us into an alternate reality controlled by a giant black swan, referred to in the story as a Cobbe, which is a male swan, anyway it sort of went downhill for me after that. You see where I come from a cob is a bread based appendage that usually holds bacon & egg and every time it was mentioned, that’s where my thoughts went, dumb I know but that’s me.
I could never truly get invested in the story and the ending went a little too action movieish for my liking, like a one bullet left, got to blow up the gas canister in the sharks mouth or we're dead scenario.
I’ve read a few by William Meikle and thoroughly enjoyed them but I guess this one just wasn't for me.
http://paulnelson.booklikes.com/post/...
Started off quite well in the supernatural thriller vein, young girls missing and the remains of rare black swans found at each crime scene. John Grainger is investigating but seemingly a step ahead of the police is junior reporter Alan Grainger, brother of the grizzled detective.
The assailant seemingly vanishes into free air with his victim, leaving behind a blood soaked crime scene where the worst is feared immediately. The investigation leads out to Loch Leven and an alternate reality that has the brothers running from the law and something far worse.
Ok I was intrigued so far, characters were good but the Wizard of Oz moment that took us into an alternate reality controlled by a giant black swan, referred to in the story as a Cobbe, which is a male swan, anyway it sort of went downhill for me after that. You see where I come from a cob is a bread based appendage that usually holds bacon & egg and every time it was mentioned, that’s where my thoughts went, dumb I know but that’s me.
I could never truly get invested in the story and the ending went a little too action movieish for my liking, like a one bullet left, got to blow up the gas canister in the sharks mouth or we're dead scenario.
I’ve read a few by William Meikle and thoroughly enjoyed them but I guess this one just wasn't for me.
http://paulnelson.booklikes.com/post/...
June 5, 2014
Another impressive novel by William Meikle. In EXILED, Meikle blends Scottish myth, a fantastic, monstrous creature, human abductions, mutilations, and a supernatural realm all together. Sound like a bit much? Meikle's execution is flawless in the stringing together of this fantastic tale. This story captivated me from the very first chapter, and never let up. Horrific media frenzy surrounding the abductions of several children, lead two brothers on the trail of a madman that may not be possible to catch....
Meikle's characterization is in top form, and the atmosphere he creates is simply stunningly real! I've been a fan of Meikle's work for quite a while now, and can honestly say that he excels in all forms: short-stories, novellas, and novels. If you're looking for an incredible read that will take you away from reality for a while, pick up this novel. Another superb addition to the DarkFuse line.
Highly recommended!
Meikle's characterization is in top form, and the atmosphere he creates is simply stunningly real! I've been a fan of Meikle's work for quite a while now, and can honestly say that he excels in all forms: short-stories, novellas, and novels. If you're looking for an incredible read that will take you away from reality for a while, pick up this novel. Another superb addition to the DarkFuse line.
Highly recommended!
July 19, 2014
The Exiled by William Meikle
Opened, July 14, 2014. Closed, July 15, 2014
Pre-release from Dark Fuse
Encouraged by author's Goodreads Q&A
Starting this novella was exciting. I wanted to know immediately what was going on...more where did this little girl go and finding that out maybe I would know why the little girl was where she was. I was intrigued by the way our protagonist heard her voice. This beginning reminded me of a Twilight Zone show where a young girl was lost in the wall behind her bed and her parents could hear her calling them.
As I got more into the book, I discovered it was a fantasy book and honestly reminded me of young adult characters. I was actually surprised as I've read several books by Meikle and never felt his writing was for the immature or being marketed to teens. I think it was odd to me because of the crimes in the book. I felt all the main characters changed so much once the fantasy part of the book began. Maybe they were suppose to. Maybe I read something different in the beginning that wasn't there.
So now I'm trying to decide if I liked this fantasy or not. I'm pretty sure I have enjoyed Meikles other books a bit more than this one. However, this one was interesting and fun.
This book was well written and edited. I always knew what was happening. But I really did not care for the fantasy aspect. It is a personal preference of mine. I suppose if I am reading this sort of fantasy I want it in the YA genre.
A solid 3 stars, colored brightly
Recommended
Opened, July 14, 2014. Closed, July 15, 2014
Pre-release from Dark Fuse
Encouraged by author's Goodreads Q&A
Starting this novella was exciting. I wanted to know immediately what was going on...more where did this little girl go and finding that out maybe I would know why the little girl was where she was. I was intrigued by the way our protagonist heard her voice. This beginning reminded me of a Twilight Zone show where a young girl was lost in the wall behind her bed and her parents could hear her calling them.
As I got more into the book, I discovered it was a fantasy book and honestly reminded me of young adult characters. I was actually surprised as I've read several books by Meikle and never felt his writing was for the immature or being marketed to teens. I think it was odd to me because of the crimes in the book. I felt all the main characters changed so much once the fantasy part of the book began. Maybe they were suppose to. Maybe I read something different in the beginning that wasn't there.
So now I'm trying to decide if I liked this fantasy or not. I'm pretty sure I have enjoyed Meikles other books a bit more than this one. However, this one was interesting and fun.
This book was well written and edited. I always knew what was happening. But I really did not care for the fantasy aspect. It is a personal preference of mine. I suppose if I am reading this sort of fantasy I want it in the YA genre.
A solid 3 stars, colored brightly
Recommended
June 5, 2014
Black swans, kidnapped girls, Scottish detectives - how do these things fit with a title such as EXILED? Master storyteller William Meikle fits these pieces together flawlessly in this, his newest novella in the Darkfuse lineup. Good versus evil is the basis for the story here. I don't think you should miss this one.
August 25, 2014
One of the things that I love about Willie's books is that I never know where he's going to take the reader. The Exiled started out like a dark crime thriller before Willie whisked me away to a fantasy realm where a dangerous legend in the form of a black swan lurks about, ready to kill anyone who dared to intrude. The story continues with the heroes desperately searching for a way to stop a monster that abducts young girls and to save both worlds from destruction. Meikle continues to excel at his ability to spin a unique, fascinating tale that is sure to draw any reader in and keep them captivated until the very last page. Highly recommended!
August 26, 2016
Combining elements of a police procedural drama, serial killer thriller and ultra dark fantasy with horrific undertones, The Exiled is anything but formulaic. Taking place in the Scottish city of Edinburgh, Meikle's tale follows two brothers - one a detective inspector, the other a journalist - as they try to hunt down the abductor of several missing girls. What they find, however, is beyond their imagining and is as compelling as it is horrifying.
Meikle paints an incredibly readable page-turner that never lets up the pace as the brothers circle ever closer to the truth. Their relationship is well-defined and feels real - even if the two of them seem to be determined to drink Scotland dry as they stress over their next lead. And when the police work takes a back seat to the burgeoning fantasy elements, there is darkness aplenty to be found, so reader beware: this is not a fairy tale for a younger audience.
All in all, Meikle has found himself a new fan with The Exiled and I'm looking forward to working my way through his back catalogue to see what else his imagination has realised.
4 Thin Walls Between Realities for The Exiled.
The preceding is based on an eARC generously provided by DarkFuse publishing via NetGalley.
Meikle paints an incredibly readable page-turner that never lets up the pace as the brothers circle ever closer to the truth. Their relationship is well-defined and feels real - even if the two of them seem to be determined to drink Scotland dry as they stress over their next lead. And when the police work takes a back seat to the burgeoning fantasy elements, there is darkness aplenty to be found, so reader beware: this is not a fairy tale for a younger audience.
All in all, Meikle has found himself a new fan with The Exiled and I'm looking forward to working my way through his back catalogue to see what else his imagination has realised.
4 Thin Walls Between Realities for The Exiled.
The preceding is based on an eARC generously provided by DarkFuse publishing via NetGalley.
February 11, 2015
Applause for Mr. Meikle, I believe he has created a new category of fiction. He has taken the modern day police procedural, combined it with a Scottish fairy story (and shaken not stirred) to create a hybrid product
One of the things that really stands out in this wee tale of child abductions is Mr. Meikle's love of Scotland and it's countryside. His use of Scottish expressions is also endearing in the story of child abduction, murder, and travel to a plagued faerie kingdom. The story comes complete with a couple of swashbuckling hero's, two brothers one a copper and one a newspaper reporter, and evil ogre, a killer bird, and a host of interesting side characters, which made this book a joyful and fast read.
For those who have not discovered William Meikle it's your loss. He has gotten rather prolific these past four or five years and he is never a disappointment. If I had any complaint, it's that a good part of his work is available only as e-reading, making it a loss for some of us. This book fortunately is available as a nice hardback from DarkFuse who has become William Meikle's main publishers.
One of the things that really stands out in this wee tale of child abductions is Mr. Meikle's love of Scotland and it's countryside. His use of Scottish expressions is also endearing in the story of child abduction, murder, and travel to a plagued faerie kingdom. The story comes complete with a couple of swashbuckling hero's, two brothers one a copper and one a newspaper reporter, and evil ogre, a killer bird, and a host of interesting side characters, which made this book a joyful and fast read.
For those who have not discovered William Meikle it's your loss. He has gotten rather prolific these past four or five years and he is never a disappointment. If I had any complaint, it's that a good part of his work is available only as e-reading, making it a loss for some of us. This book fortunately is available as a nice hardback from DarkFuse who has become William Meikle's main publishers.
July 24, 2014
The Exiled is a good murder mystery with a little supernatural thrown in. The story centers around two bothers. One a cop(John) and the other a reporter(Alan). John and his partner get the call to a apartment building in the area that used to be his beat ten years ago. A six year old girl has been taken. They find a lot of blood at the scene and also find a black swan torn to pieces. The brother is also working the same case for the city news desk. Later more girls come up missing. Also find out that six rare black swans vanish from Lochside Bird Reserve. The deeper they get the stranger the case becomes. The Exiled was well written and had a good flow to the story. I gave it 4 stars.
August 14, 2016
A classic good versus evil fairy tale, that is anything but cookie cutter. This one from William Meikle starts out as a police thriller, mystery and then takes a turn into supernatural fantasy, as two brothers find themselves on a quest to catch a serial killer, who has fled into an alternate realm. The sacrifices are piling up and there is only one remaining in order to complete the becoming.
Excellent pacing and characterization, as I have come to expect, from Mr. Meikle and The Exiled definitely delivers on both counts. Very solid 4+ Stars! Highly Recommended.
Excellent pacing and characterization, as I have come to expect, from Mr. Meikle and The Exiled definitely delivers on both counts. Very solid 4+ Stars! Highly Recommended.
June 18, 2014
I like in Meikle's books when you can find one line that pretty much summarizes the odd situation that his characters have gotten themselves into:
"you've just given your wee posh company car away to a known villain in exchange for an old banger and two bacon rolls, you're on the run accused of murder, and your only alibi is that you were away in Fairyland with a big black bird. It's hardly any wonder something smells of shite."
Yeah, its hardly any wonder!
4 STARS
"you've just given your wee posh company car away to a known villain in exchange for an old banger and two bacon rolls, you're on the run accused of murder, and your only alibi is that you were away in Fairyland with a big black bird. It's hardly any wonder something smells of shite."
Yeah, its hardly any wonder!
4 STARS
September 9, 2020
Oh my, this was such an engaging read! The length was perfect and the story well built in terms of imagery. I actually had to fight the urge to find a corner to hide in at my work place to finish this.
June 12, 2014
My review of The Exiled, by William Meikle. This is an advanced readers copy that the author has kindly supplied to me via NetGalley. Publication date 1 July 2014.
The Exiles does much to recommend it. It combines a well crafted detective story, a serial killer thriller, and dark supernatural fantasy, in a work that is gripping and about as original as it gets. The story landscape is Edinburgh, what more could I ask for? The majority of my young adult life was spent in Edinburgh, and the way that William Meikle describes the city, and some of its less salubrious inhabitants and aspects, certainly brought the narrative to life. A large proportion of the detective, and investigative journalistic time was spent in watering holes, persuading half drunk Scotsmen to tell all!
The two main characters are brothers, John is a detective inspector, Alan a journalist with an uncanny ability to research leads. To begin with Meikle paints them as brothers who have grown apart, almost like separate entities, on two sides of the divide. The Macabre nature of the crime draws the two brothers together, in a quest to find and bring to justice the abductor of the missing girls. Meikle manages to interweave a tale that is at times, so dark, that a smattering of black humour, and drunken, humorous elements, are needed to lighten the heavy load.
The book is most definitely a page-turner. The characters are realistically depicted. The stress and pressure put on detectives investigating terrible crimes such as these, is realistically portrayed. In fact, John can only seem to cope with the situation by resorting to chain-smoking. moreover, Meikle stereotypes the Scots' drinking habits, by suggesting that a stiff drink is a prerequisite for all and sundry. Somehow, his realistic, colloquial, dialogue and well crafted scenes, allow him the license to get away with this.
Very early on, it's clear that this is not a novel for the faint-hearted. The darkness, and disturbing graphical images that Meikle paints may well haunt the reader. In light of this, I would not recommend this to younger readers. But, having said that, the darkness of the plot is lightened by the desperation of the two main characters to solve the mystery, and stop the advancing progress of evil.
I'm impressed by Meikle's imagination, and his ability to combine Fantasy with detective genre in such a convincing, and readable way. I would be interested in reading more of his work. I found The Exiled difficult to rate but decided on four stars, though for originality I think it would score a high-five!
Very highly recommended for readers of thriller, dark fantasy, horror.
The Exiles does much to recommend it. It combines a well crafted detective story, a serial killer thriller, and dark supernatural fantasy, in a work that is gripping and about as original as it gets. The story landscape is Edinburgh, what more could I ask for? The majority of my young adult life was spent in Edinburgh, and the way that William Meikle describes the city, and some of its less salubrious inhabitants and aspects, certainly brought the narrative to life. A large proportion of the detective, and investigative journalistic time was spent in watering holes, persuading half drunk Scotsmen to tell all!
The two main characters are brothers, John is a detective inspector, Alan a journalist with an uncanny ability to research leads. To begin with Meikle paints them as brothers who have grown apart, almost like separate entities, on two sides of the divide. The Macabre nature of the crime draws the two brothers together, in a quest to find and bring to justice the abductor of the missing girls. Meikle manages to interweave a tale that is at times, so dark, that a smattering of black humour, and drunken, humorous elements, are needed to lighten the heavy load.
The book is most definitely a page-turner. The characters are realistically depicted. The stress and pressure put on detectives investigating terrible crimes such as these, is realistically portrayed. In fact, John can only seem to cope with the situation by resorting to chain-smoking. moreover, Meikle stereotypes the Scots' drinking habits, by suggesting that a stiff drink is a prerequisite for all and sundry. Somehow, his realistic, colloquial, dialogue and well crafted scenes, allow him the license to get away with this.
Very early on, it's clear that this is not a novel for the faint-hearted. The darkness, and disturbing graphical images that Meikle paints may well haunt the reader. In light of this, I would not recommend this to younger readers. But, having said that, the darkness of the plot is lightened by the desperation of the two main characters to solve the mystery, and stop the advancing progress of evil.
I'm impressed by Meikle's imagination, and his ability to combine Fantasy with detective genre in such a convincing, and readable way. I would be interested in reading more of his work. I found The Exiled difficult to rate but decided on four stars, though for originality I think it would score a high-five!
Very highly recommended for readers of thriller, dark fantasy, horror.
June 18, 2014
With so many books in existence, it is sometimes difficult to find a truly original concept. I've read books where there is a thin wall between our world and a paranormal realm but, this author has done this concept extremely well In this intriguing blend of real world and fantasy, we are introduced to the horrors a human mind can conceive in the timeless search of obtaining power. The story predominantly takes place in Scotland and true to form, most viable meetings takes place over liquor.
A disturbing case has arisen where, a young girl inexplicable has disappeared. What is even more disturbing is the presence of a mutilated body of a rare black swam. We follow the efforts of two brothers one, a police inspector and his journalistic brother, before the police can catch a break or literally their breaths, another girl goes missing with the same remains left behind. With time running out and the public growing more restless and demanding justice, Det. Grainger needs a break like a fish needs water and when his younger journalistic brother starts connecting the dots, both brothers will have to join forces to thwart this unimaginable horror.
The author weaves a very compelling and riveting criminal drama, with a touch of dark fantasy added. If dealing with our reality is hard, imagine what happens when they discover we're not alone. With just enough "creep" as it's not for the faint of heart, The Exiled will definitely have you turning pages faster and faster. Let's hope this is the start of a beautiful series. Nicely done.
A disturbing case has arisen where, a young girl inexplicable has disappeared. What is even more disturbing is the presence of a mutilated body of a rare black swam. We follow the efforts of two brothers one, a police inspector and his journalistic brother, before the police can catch a break or literally their breaths, another girl goes missing with the same remains left behind. With time running out and the public growing more restless and demanding justice, Det. Grainger needs a break like a fish needs water and when his younger journalistic brother starts connecting the dots, both brothers will have to join forces to thwart this unimaginable horror.
The author weaves a very compelling and riveting criminal drama, with a touch of dark fantasy added. If dealing with our reality is hard, imagine what happens when they discover we're not alone. With just enough "creep" as it's not for the faint of heart, The Exiled will definitely have you turning pages faster and faster. Let's hope this is the start of a beautiful series. Nicely done.
December 9, 2015
Two brothers, John a cop and Alan a journalist fight to stop a child murderer that uses the children as sacrifices to cross to another world.
It’s a fast pacing book, The beginning before you learned the truth about the other world was best when everything still was a mystery. I liked the thought about another world that is guarded by a mythical creature. 2/3 of the book was good. They are racing against the clock to stop the killer from finishing the sacrifices’ and becoming too powerful to stop.
The last part of the book was unfortunately not that interesting. You learn the “truth” about the world. Well, as much as it is possible to learn and you get a final fight between the brothers and the killers. But my interest in the book faded the last 1/3 of the book. I just couldn’t care less what happened to Alan and John.
I wanted to know more about the other world, where it just humans that had crossed over to the other side or had it been another race (or races) of people living there before. Who build the fortress and the cathedral? What’s the story about Jonas and James? What is so special about Alan, John, and Sandra that makes the three of them able pass over to the other side easy? I wanted to know more about Simon and Cobbe, how did Simon learn about Cobbe, did he just invent the story about Cobbe or did someone tell him about the creature? Too many questions, too little answers for my taste.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with a free copy for an honest review!
It’s a fast pacing book, The beginning before you learned the truth about the other world was best when everything still was a mystery. I liked the thought about another world that is guarded by a mythical creature. 2/3 of the book was good. They are racing against the clock to stop the killer from finishing the sacrifices’ and becoming too powerful to stop.
The last part of the book was unfortunately not that interesting. You learn the “truth” about the world. Well, as much as it is possible to learn and you get a final fight between the brothers and the killers. But my interest in the book faded the last 1/3 of the book. I just couldn’t care less what happened to Alan and John.
I wanted to know more about the other world, where it just humans that had crossed over to the other side or had it been another race (or races) of people living there before. Who build the fortress and the cathedral? What’s the story about Jonas and James? What is so special about Alan, John, and Sandra that makes the three of them able pass over to the other side easy? I wanted to know more about Simon and Cobbe, how did Simon learn about Cobbe, did he just invent the story about Cobbe or did someone tell him about the creature? Too many questions, too little answers for my taste.
Thank you Netgalley for providing me with a free copy for an honest review!
August 17, 2017
Gory story of several murders with the criminal leaving behind a mutilated swan.
July 24, 2014
Exemplary horror from the new king of macabre: William Meikle.
The Exiled is a bloody thrill ride through Edinburgh’s slums to find missing girls. It combines Police procedures with the occult to create a spine tingling story of epic proportions.
Dark magic is at work as Celtic mysticism comes to life in a way you never thought possible or saw coming. I hope there is more to come from Detectives John and Alan because they were such brilliantly flawed characters and their dark world was so fascinating. I loved this novella and William Meikle left me wanting more. If you only read one horror novella this summer, then this it!
The Exiled is a bloody thrill ride through Edinburgh’s slums to find missing girls. It combines Police procedures with the occult to create a spine tingling story of epic proportions.
Dark magic is at work as Celtic mysticism comes to life in a way you never thought possible or saw coming. I hope there is more to come from Detectives John and Alan because they were such brilliantly flawed characters and their dark world was so fascinating. I loved this novella and William Meikle left me wanting more. If you only read one horror novella this summer, then this it!
July 25, 2014
This is a story set in Scotland, someone is kidnapping young girls and leaving mutilated black swans at the scene of the crime. Policeman named John Graniger and his reporter brother Alan follow their own leads until they compare notes on some strange happenings. They travel to an alternate world and discover some strange this going on.
A well written storyline and characters that had some very strange ways about them.
I would recommend this to mystery and fantasy lovers.
***I received this book in return for an honest review****
A well written storyline and characters that had some very strange ways about them.
I would recommend this to mystery and fantasy lovers.
***I received this book in return for an honest review****
June 20, 2014
A 3 star story with 5 star writing equals a 4 star novel
For a full review, please go to http://www.examiner.com/review/the-ex... and follow me on Twitter @josenher
For a full review, please go to http://www.examiner.com/review/the-ex... and follow me on Twitter @josenher
July 26, 2019
I love the blending of genres in this. It takes place in Edinburgh, Scotland. There’s the kidnapping mystery/thriller aspect of it; the brothers must race against time to save as many of the (theoretically six) girls as possible. There’s a touch of urban fantasy, as they end up delving into folk tales about faerie abductions. And of course there’s an undertone of cosmic horror running beneath the whole thing. The combination works surprisingly well in Meikle’s hands.
I do have to issue a content warning for child harm and animal harm. They’re confronted in retrospect rather than in real time, but some people might find them disturbing.
The brothers find some interesting resources and potential allies, but pretty much everyone seems to have their own agenda to follow or secrets to keep. The characters are all interesting and nicely individuated. The book isn’t a long one, yet there’s still enough difference in each character to make them worthwhile. It’s the small details that add up to a wonderful whole. I also have to make a note of something I’ve noticed after reading 13 books by Meikle: His stories tend to feature a lot of rather strong, masculine characters (often investigators, law enforcement, or military), and only a scattering of women. Normally when I see this I’d expect to see some amount of concomitant depiction of those women as weak or as victims. This is not at all the case here! Instead, those few women he includes tend to be strong and independent and easily hold their own with “the boys”. I really appreciate this.
Meikle takes the old tale of faerie abductions and puts a creative, harrowing spin on them. I really enjoyed the results!
Original review posted on my blog: http://www.errantdreams.com/2019/07/r...
I do have to issue a content warning for child harm and animal harm. They’re confronted in retrospect rather than in real time, but some people might find them disturbing.
The brothers find some interesting resources and potential allies, but pretty much everyone seems to have their own agenda to follow or secrets to keep. The characters are all interesting and nicely individuated. The book isn’t a long one, yet there’s still enough difference in each character to make them worthwhile. It’s the small details that add up to a wonderful whole. I also have to make a note of something I’ve noticed after reading 13 books by Meikle: His stories tend to feature a lot of rather strong, masculine characters (often investigators, law enforcement, or military), and only a scattering of women. Normally when I see this I’d expect to see some amount of concomitant depiction of those women as weak or as victims. This is not at all the case here! Instead, those few women he includes tend to be strong and independent and easily hold their own with “the boys”. I really appreciate this.
Meikle takes the old tale of faerie abductions and puts a creative, harrowing spin on them. I really enjoyed the results!
Original review posted on my blog: http://www.errantdreams.com/2019/07/r...
December 27, 2018
My favorite part of this book was it's narrator! I'm not downplaying the book though. It was great as well. I absolutely loved the Scottish accent! This story takes place in Scotland, so the accent added to the story. Chris Barnes did a great job telling the story and drew me in from the beginning.
The story itself is about the Granger brothers. One is a cop, and the other is a reporter. Together, they try to solve the disappearances of little girls and what black swans have to do with it. Their investigation brings them to Elfheim, turning this murder mystery into fantasy.
The story itself is about the Granger brothers. One is a cop, and the other is a reporter. Together, they try to solve the disappearances of little girls and what black swans have to do with it. Their investigation brings them to Elfheim, turning this murder mystery into fantasy.
October 13, 2021
An excellent and unusual tale.
I follow William Meikle and have read most of his works. This one stands out. I think he works better in Novel length although I certainly enjoy his shorter stories. The characters are well drawn and the plot is an intriguing mix of detective story and fantasy. This is not a pastiche and here we get to enjoy Mekle’s own imagination at work. An enjoyable read.
I follow William Meikle and have read most of his works. This one stands out. I think he works better in Novel length although I certainly enjoy his shorter stories. The characters are well drawn and the plot is an intriguing mix of detective story and fantasy. This is not a pastiche and here we get to enjoy Mekle’s own imagination at work. An enjoyable read.
October 23, 2022
After a young girl disappears and a dead swan is found at the scene, brothers John and Alan Grainger are drawn into a strange mystery. A gateway between worlds is being misused and they need to restore the balance. Good story that moves at a nice pace, with good characters.
September 3, 2024
Haunting Scottish tale of the thin spots between two worlds. Loved It !!
June 17, 2014
Originally, fairy tales were not aimed at children and in the Exiled, William Meikle has written a fairy tale/dark fantasy that harkens back to those early predecessors.
John Grainger is a detective in Edinburgh, estranged from his brother, Alan, a journalist. Both of them collide when little girls are being abducted in broad daylight, where no one has seen a thing and the only clue is the mutilated bodies of black swans, each with their wings removed.
John wants to catch the culprit, while Alan is looking for a big scoop and they each follow different leads and end up at the same derelict farmhouse. But that isn't the only thing they have in common, both Alan and John have the ability to see another world and it is there that the girls have been taken.
But who is taking these girls here and why?
Part fantasy, part detective story, this book hooked me from the very first page and didn't let go until the last page was turned. Like any book a story will stand or fall on its characters and the characterisation here was spot on. I loved both Alan and John. Both of them had their flaws, which made them more realistic, but both had noble hearts and wanted to do the right thing, even if it meant danger for themselves.
Edinburgh comes to life, from the gritty, run-down block of flats where the first girl was abducted, to the more genteel old town and castle. You can imagine yourself there, and also in the other world of faerie which is well-described too. There's just enough description to set the scene, and the book moves along at a break-neck speed. The tension just keeps mounting and mounting on both sides of the veil.
My only niggle with this one, and it is a niggle, is that the book is set almost entirely in Scotland and the other realm, yet we have the characters doing things like getting items out of the trunk of the car or looking under the hood or driving SUVs. The Americanisms jarred me out of the story somewhat, and it's such a shame as this is not the only British set book I've read where this happens. The author writes the dialogue with Scottish overtones, it just seems a pity that the Americanisms crept in for the narrative part.
A great read if you enjoy your fairy tales and dark fantasy.
Review copy from Netgalley courtesy of the publisher
John Grainger is a detective in Edinburgh, estranged from his brother, Alan, a journalist. Both of them collide when little girls are being abducted in broad daylight, where no one has seen a thing and the only clue is the mutilated bodies of black swans, each with their wings removed.
John wants to catch the culprit, while Alan is looking for a big scoop and they each follow different leads and end up at the same derelict farmhouse. But that isn't the only thing they have in common, both Alan and John have the ability to see another world and it is there that the girls have been taken.
But who is taking these girls here and why?
Part fantasy, part detective story, this book hooked me from the very first page and didn't let go until the last page was turned. Like any book a story will stand or fall on its characters and the characterisation here was spot on. I loved both Alan and John. Both of them had their flaws, which made them more realistic, but both had noble hearts and wanted to do the right thing, even if it meant danger for themselves.
Edinburgh comes to life, from the gritty, run-down block of flats where the first girl was abducted, to the more genteel old town and castle. You can imagine yourself there, and also in the other world of faerie which is well-described too. There's just enough description to set the scene, and the book moves along at a break-neck speed. The tension just keeps mounting and mounting on both sides of the veil.
My only niggle with this one, and it is a niggle, is that the book is set almost entirely in Scotland and the other realm, yet we have the characters doing things like getting items out of the trunk of the car or looking under the hood or driving SUVs. The Americanisms jarred me out of the story somewhat, and it's such a shame as this is not the only British set book I've read where this happens. The author writes the dialogue with Scottish overtones, it just seems a pity that the Americanisms crept in for the narrative part.
A great read if you enjoy your fairy tales and dark fantasy.
Review copy from Netgalley courtesy of the publisher
April 9, 2015
(I received a free copy of this book from Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.)
When several young girls are abducted from various locations in Edinburgh, Detective John Granger and his brother Alan, a reporter, investigate the cases from different directions. The abductor is cunning, always one step ahead, and the only clue he leaves behind at each scene are the brutalized corpses of black swans.
When the brothers' investigations finally converge at a farmhouse in Central Scotland, they catch a glimpse of where the girls have been taken, a place both far away yet close enough to touch. A land known throughout Scottish history with many names: Faerie, Elfheim, and the Astral Plane. It is a place of legend and horror, a myth. But the brothers soon discover it's real, and, to catch the abductor, they will have to cross over themselves.
To catch a killer, John and Alan Granger will have to battle the Cobbe, a strange and enigmatic creature that guards the realm, a creature of horrific power that demands a heavy price for entry into its world. The fate of both realms hangs in the balance…and time is running out...
3.5 stars
I have become a fan recently of books being put out by DarkFuse and this book was another quality story. DarkFuse have really come to the party with the variety of dark fantasy/horror novels they are publishing and I have to congratulate them on that.
This book starts off in just the way I like: the investigation of missing girls and the strange occurrences of black swans at the scenes of the disappearances. A detective and his journalist brother join up to investigate.
Then this book veers off into the supernatural which would normally be a two-thumbs-up situation for me but this one just seemed to not totally work for me. The "other world" set-up was a little disappointing for me - although it was still very well written - and the the last part of the book really lost my interest...so much so that I didn't really care by the end who the killers were and what happened to Alan and John. Which is a shame as the book deserved a better ending.
This book is certainly worth a read and my take on the ending my very well not be the same as yours.
Paul
ARH
When several young girls are abducted from various locations in Edinburgh, Detective John Granger and his brother Alan, a reporter, investigate the cases from different directions. The abductor is cunning, always one step ahead, and the only clue he leaves behind at each scene are the brutalized corpses of black swans.
When the brothers' investigations finally converge at a farmhouse in Central Scotland, they catch a glimpse of where the girls have been taken, a place both far away yet close enough to touch. A land known throughout Scottish history with many names: Faerie, Elfheim, and the Astral Plane. It is a place of legend and horror, a myth. But the brothers soon discover it's real, and, to catch the abductor, they will have to cross over themselves.
To catch a killer, John and Alan Granger will have to battle the Cobbe, a strange and enigmatic creature that guards the realm, a creature of horrific power that demands a heavy price for entry into its world. The fate of both realms hangs in the balance…and time is running out...
3.5 stars
I have become a fan recently of books being put out by DarkFuse and this book was another quality story. DarkFuse have really come to the party with the variety of dark fantasy/horror novels they are publishing and I have to congratulate them on that.
This book starts off in just the way I like: the investigation of missing girls and the strange occurrences of black swans at the scenes of the disappearances. A detective and his journalist brother join up to investigate.
Then this book veers off into the supernatural which would normally be a two-thumbs-up situation for me but this one just seemed to not totally work for me. The "other world" set-up was a little disappointing for me - although it was still very well written - and the the last part of the book really lost my interest...so much so that I didn't really care by the end who the killers were and what happened to Alan and John. Which is a shame as the book deserved a better ending.
This book is certainly worth a read and my take on the ending my very well not be the same as yours.
Paul
ARH
September 17, 2014
I finished this book last night and, honestly, I'm angry at myself for not getting to it sooner. The instant I picked up The Exiled, I was lost to the world. I was drawn into a new place. One where castles loom on mountains, and darkness flies on feathered wings. William Meikle has created a beautifully original story that is a mix of Scottish mythology, crime thriller and a bit of horror for good measure. This is a dark story, to be sure, but one I truly enjoyed. I'm impressed.
John Granger and his brother Alan were excellent characters. Both strong, stubborn, and about as noble as they come. I loved that John and Alan were on two different sides of the spectrum when it came to their jobs. John as a detective. Alan as a reporter. Each of them seeking the same answers in their own way. I watched as they slowly fell down the rabbit hole, and still managed to stay themselves. Be warned, these two are tough not to get attached to.
This richly detailed story pulls the reader into a place beyond the world we know. One where darkness is spreading, and our two unlikely heroes are the only ones who can stop it. It's filled with twists and turns, plus an ample amount of very descriptive violence. If you're not okay with dismembered body parts being described in detail? You might want to tread lightly. I can, however, promise that there is a lot of beauty in this story too. I was amazed at how flawlessly this transitioned from a crime story, to a fantasy story, and back again.
I wish I could say more, but I don't want to risk spoiling a moment of this for potential readers. This is a gorgeously written book, and one that I'm glad I read! If you enjoy dark fantasy, give this one a space on your reading list.
John Granger and his brother Alan were excellent characters. Both strong, stubborn, and about as noble as they come. I loved that John and Alan were on two different sides of the spectrum when it came to their jobs. John as a detective. Alan as a reporter. Each of them seeking the same answers in their own way. I watched as they slowly fell down the rabbit hole, and still managed to stay themselves. Be warned, these two are tough not to get attached to.
This richly detailed story pulls the reader into a place beyond the world we know. One where darkness is spreading, and our two unlikely heroes are the only ones who can stop it. It's filled with twists and turns, plus an ample amount of very descriptive violence. If you're not okay with dismembered body parts being described in detail? You might want to tread lightly. I can, however, promise that there is a lot of beauty in this story too. I was amazed at how flawlessly this transitioned from a crime story, to a fantasy story, and back again.
I wish I could say more, but I don't want to risk spoiling a moment of this for potential readers. This is a gorgeously written book, and one that I'm glad I read! If you enjoy dark fantasy, give this one a space on your reading list.
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