Speak of the Devil

by Antony J. Stanton

A young Romani girl in medieval Transylvania tries to warn her clan of the evils looming in her visions.
Her father is too preoccupied with the dangers from the Ottomans and the Transylvanian soldiers, both.
Too scared to speak of the devil, for to speak too loudly encourages the most Satanic of visits.
The only one to believe her is a young knight she shouldn’t even talk to.
To ignore the warnings has led to death before now.
And may do again.
And the girl’s dreams are looming larger, ever more vivid.
But is death from the Ottomans or the soldiers the worst thing they should fear?

A historical vampire thriller. A terrifying and brooding horror. Dark fantasy at its very darkest.

“Speak of the Devil” — this FREE novella accompanies the epic Blood of the Dragon series. If you like Gothic thrillers, alternative history and vampire origins, you’ll love Antony J. Stanton’s brand new medieval race against time.

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Genres: Horror, Gothic, Vampires, Paranormal

88 pages, ebook

Published January 1, 2025

About the author

Award-winning author of the Blood of the Dragon series, a medieval vampire thriller saga, and the Blood of the Infected series, a post-apocalyptic vampire/zombie horror story.

Winner of the prestigious 2026 BookFest Award in horror for "Blood of the Damned," book one of the Blood of the Dragon series.
Lives in London.

Reviews

[Haly Hoards Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Antony J. Stanton's new novella, Speak of the Devil, is an introduction to the upcoming vampire series, Blood of the Dragon. After reading this novella I am excitedly waiting for the release of the first book in the series.

Dark ancient secrets, a young beautiful Romani seeress, vampires, human monsters, fearful villagers and a dashing knight. What more could you ask for? If you want building tension and fear, this is your novella. Are you looking for a rich character driven tale, this is your novella. Do you like peeking into the foundation for a great series, this is your novella.

Thank you Antony Stanton for the free copy of this novella. I think it is the first step to a great horror filled relationship.

[Charlene (Char) ❤︎ ❀˖° ❤︎ · Rating 5 out of 5]

The book was so good I didn’t want it to end. Although this book is short the action, character development and the storyline was very rich.

This book is set in Medieval Transylvania a young girl named “Farida” she is seen as peculiar amongst her clan as she has a gift. In her clan eyes this gift brings damnation. Despite her best efforts she tries to warn them of the looming danger. No one seems to believe her only person that does is except Burzin, her closet friend.

I would definitely would describe this book as being filled with a slow dread that slowly grows. It’s like looking over your shoulder because you feel something is there but when you look you don’t see anything. A feeling of unease and terror.

Begins a slow burn of this great Medieval book about Vampires. Let’s get into first they’re in Transylvania but all standards the root of vampires. That part alone does make for a great setting. I always love how an author can write books in a specific time and history and make the writing vivid. Antony, is no exception this book reads like a movie and you should definitely look into this author. Since this book is part of a series Im so excited to see what happens next.


Thank you, Antony for providing me a copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Stacey Markle · Rating 4 out of 5]

my rating 3 5 rounded for GR

An interesting start to the series!
We see some world building into the Romani people, their beliefs and superstitions.
Farida has nightmares, visions of a dark figure and terrible foreboding but none of her family believe her. when they make camp in a town to sell their wares and purchase supplies, they come against the townsfolk who have protected their homes and businesses with wards of garlic and such. Farida understands that they have "seen" and are also afraid.
She knows she's being stalked by pure evil. Will she be able to make her family believe her before it's too late?

[Ames · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story so much.

It was so well written, even the broken dialect really added to the atmosphere of the book.

It was engaging from page one and I cared about the characters instantly! which is a huge skill for a writer, even if I didn't care for ONE of the sisters 🤨 but again, skill 😂

The ENDING 😫😫😫 there is something about abrupt endings like this that make me crave the next book. I hope we get some clarifications on a few things in the next one, or I'll never sleep 😂

You can get this book for free if you sign up to the author's newsletter over on Insta!
@authorantonyj.stanton - which is so cool!!

I can't wait for the next book!!

[Honey Dy · Rating 5 out of 5]

SPEAK OF THE DEVIL, AND HE WILL SURELY COME

What can i say about Speak of the Devil, aside from being so good that I didn’t want to put it down!

At just 88 pages, the action, the gloomy yet enchanting atmosphere, and character development were incredibly detailed and rich in its description.

Set in Medieval Transylvania (the birthplace of Vampire folklore), this story is about Farida, a special yet peculiar girl with a mysterious gift - the ability to see into the future.

The slow pace of this story built up beautifully, with a feeling of dread that grew stronger with every chapter, making me want to read one more chapter to see what happened next.

It is the kind of horror that made me feel like someone’s watching me, but when I turn around, nothing’s there, and yet I still got this uneasy feeling that it's still around. It's THAT SLOWBURN terror that made this book shine for me.

The whole atmosphere had a gothic and eerie feel to it, and drenched in history, it was the perfect backdrop for a vampire tale. Antony captured this so vividly that the book felt cinematic, like I was there watching a movie unfold.

Antony balanced history, horror, and character driven storytelling so well, and after finishing this instalment, I’m beyond excited to see where it goes next.

If you love vampires, slow-burn gothic horror, and stories that stay with you long after you close the book—this one’s for you. 🦇

[Emma_bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enjoyable, quick read following Romani sisters, Bella and Farida. Nightmares that come every night to Farida but when trying to warn her sister, father and the townspeople, no one believes her. Being seen as the "silly little girl", she needs to prove her dreams aren't just stories to ignore.

Vampyre's plague Farida's evenings during sleep, the townspeople know of something they need to ward off, with their wreaths and suspicious looks.

You can feel her determination to get people to believe her although sometimes they only believe when they see said thing. Superstition can only go so far when it comes to protecting themselves and their family. Can't wait for the next one!

Creepy, suspenseful and brilliant!

I'm looking forward to reading more from Antony and I'm excited for more in the medieval vampire thriller genre!

[Brianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This novella is so well done. From the beginning I was captivated by what was happening and the evil that was lurking in the woods. And then the ending for it to end
I felt for Farida in this story! I felt the sadness and frustration with no one listening to her. Trying to warn her people. I loved the creepiness. Very well detailed and left you on the edge of your seat

[Holly Knightley · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘Speak of the Devil’ is only a taste of the Blood of the Dragon Series and I’m thirsty for more! I was sucked right in. Stanton does an excellent job transporting readers back in time to a small town in Transylvania where just whispering the name of the devil welcomes unwanted things. For two sisters, that is exactly what happened. This is one story you’re not going to want to miss! ‘Speak of the Devil’ is perfect for any vampire junkie who likes their vamps in a historical setting!

[Anca Antoci · Rating 5 out of 5]

Speak of the Devil is a dark, atmospheric novella set in medieval Transylvania, a prequel to Antony J. Stanton’s Blood of the Dragon series. The story follows two sisters as they traverse the dangers of a hostile Transylvanian town, haunted not only by the prejudices of men but also by ancient supernatural threats. Steeped in folklore and ancient superstition, this gothic tale reads like a fever dream of creeping dread, offering a glimpse into a world where monsters come in many forms—some wearing fangs, others uniforms.

As a Romanian, I enjoy reading about our traditions and folklore through the lens of on an outsider. Speak of the Devil is a beautifully written, chilling novella that does exactly what a prequel should: it builds the world, plants the seeds of a much larger story, and leaves you desperate for what comes next. Through Farida’s eyes, we glimpse a rising darkness, one that’s deeply tied to history, heritage, and the struggle to be heard in a world that fears what it doesn’t understand.

For fans of gothic horror, folklore, and vampire stories with historical depth and emotional weight, Speak of the Devil is not just a compelling entry point into Blood of the Dragon—it’s an unforgettable tale in its own right.

Read more at https://www.summonfantasy.com/reviews...

[Dee Hancocks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Speak of the Devil is a celebration of everything vampire. Set in medieval Transylvania it’s transportive and reads like a classic. I absolutely loved this setting but also the lore, the atmosphere and horror elements. For a short read this really delivered with a great plot and leaves you wanting more. The characters feel very human, I couldn’t help but feel for Farida who is dismissed by her elders and made to doubt herself. The suspicion, superstitions and secrets in this village are a plenty. As vampire reads go this delivers on all the elements that make a great read - the lore, atmosphere and blood. Very much looking forward to the upcoming series Blood of Dragon. As a free novella it’s really a no brainer to try. Thank you to the author for a copy. This is a voluntary review of my own thoughts.

[Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short read but a slow burn gothic horror that packs a punch. The story is set in Medieval Transylvania and focuses on a young girl named Farida. When she has nightmares of a an evil that threatens her people, they make the horrible mistaking dismiss her warnings.

Speak with the Devil is an amazing read. It’s just under 100 pages but is able to capture slow burn dread through atmosphere, folklore, superstition, and creepy story telling. Everything you need for a perfect horror novella about Vampires. Thank you to the author for allowing me to read a review copy!

[ScarlettAnomalyReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a super quick read but packed punch for the pages that we did have.

I feel like I've been on a bit of a vampire kick lately but can you blame me? So many iterations of what they could be, how they act, the sky, or well, coffin is the limit..

A young girl tried to warn her clan, but as the story usually goes, who will believe a young girl seeing evil visions?? But a forbidden ally shakes things up, and Farida has to decide what to do, let the world and everything she knows crash and burn or..

This book, had me invested, this deep sense of impending doom actually built along with the story, it wasn't just something he told us about, it was something he showed us and let build up creating such a tense atmosphere.

Beautifully written and I don't want to say too much more, but check this out if you like historical fiction, or looking for a good book about some vampire lore, written in a beautifully dark package of horror.

[Zandra Ellerström · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Speak of the devil, and he will surely come…”

This prequel to Blood of the Damned, set in medieval Transylvania, really pulled me in.

We follow two Romani sisters, where Farida’s visions of something dark in the woods bring fear and superstition into the camp. Her gift isn’t something her people trust.

Outside the camp, there are fearful townspeople, dangerous encounters and a knight who shows kindness toward the Romani people. All while something dark is clearly lurking in the forest.

This novell gives so much. A rich storyline, character-driven and written in such an atmospheric way that I really felt like I was there. The tension builds slowly and something feels wrong the entire time.
I loved the gothic vibe, the historical setting and that creeping sense of something lurking just out of sight.

I honestly really loved this and didn’t want it to end. Such a strong and amazing start to something bigger. I’ll definitely be picking up Blood of the Damned.

Free copy provided by the author.

⭐️5/5

[Liz the Little Book Gremlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella follows Farida, a Romani girl gifted with “the sight” - reoccurring nightmares that turn into horrifying reality. She has been dreaming of the coming of a vampyre, but can she make her family believe her before it is too late?

Antony J Stanton is an absolute master of weaving terrifying elements into a world you thought you knew. This novella is so atmospheric, thrilling and genuinely scary. It is also absolutely heartbreaking to witness Farida’s helplessness and desperation in trying to make those that she loves believe her about the coming evil.

Considering how short this novella is (only 7 chapters) it’s absolutely amazing how may emotions are packed into this story! And how rich of a world has already been created.

I’ve already downloaded the next book!

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella was short, but no less dark and thrilling. The young Romani girl’s visions feel both chillingly real and tragically ignored, making her struggle between silence and survival deeply gripping. The setting in medieval Transylvania is written vividly, with antipation of threats from the Ottomans and the soldiers gave a layered sense of danger. It was historical and paranormal, with a twist of folklore and I loved the darkness I felt the whole way though.
I am looking forward to part 2!

[Sherilyn Van · Rating 5 out of 5]

The premise of this novella instantly drew me in. I love when historical settings are blended with gothic horror, and the fact that this story weaves medieval Transylvania, Romani folklore, and a haunting vision of vampires feels incredibly unique. The description already sets a chilling, atmospheric tone, and I can imagine the tension of choosing between ignoring superstitions or facing something far darker. This feels like the kind of book that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking, which is exactly why it’s jumped high on my TBR list.

[Horror Haus Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fantastic historical gothic vampire novella that absolutely nails its atmosphere. It’s steeped in dark, moody lore, and from the start there’s a creeping sense of dread that steadily builds with each page.

For such a short read (just 88 pages), it packs in a surprising amount, rich world building, eerie tension, and a story that feels much larger than its length with a lingering creepiness that really works for the tone.

And that ending? Abrupt, but in a way that hits. It leaves you wanting more rather than feeling cut off.

I’ll definitely be picking up Blood of the Damned because I need to spend more time in this world.

[Lana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all types of fantasy and this book was a very welcome change between a lot of romantasy. There are two things I find most important in a book: character building and world building. This book does both exceptionally well! And it adds the most important aspect of a thriller: tension.

The story is about a Romani girl with visions. Visions that predict horrible things. Visions that nobody wants to believe. She is certain one of her visions is due soon and she tries to warn the ones she loves. They don't want to listen and they don't believe her. Tension builds. Things start to happen that show her she is absolutely right.. but will she convince everyone in time?

[Tiphaine Figeac · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok! That was good!!!
It was intense and chilling and dark! We really felt like we were part of the events.
Anthony did a great job to build the tension and the fear of what is going on.
It was a short and fast read story. Straight to the point and I loved that! Especially after finishing a long book. I never read horror but I did enjoy it a lot. I like the setting of the medieval Romania/ transylvania scene.
We really felt close to the FMC Farida, we could feel her struggles and frustrations.
I can’t wait to read more from the author!!

[Luna Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this as part of indie tron and was pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed it.

Packed full of action but a story with so much background and rich history too! I really enjoyed exploring the world of a Romani in the Middle Ages. Second sights, mystical beings and conflict a great range of story and definitely makes me want to check out more.

I loved the writing style and the author left you wanting more.

[Graveyardreads Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

As the start of the Blood of the Dragon series, this gothic vampire tale with only 88 pages, will make your skin crawl. It starts slowly, but leads up to a frightening gothic vampire tale.
Set in Transylvania (vampire capital of the world), this historical local legend will remind you of spooky gothic stories you used to hear as a child.
This is wonderfully written by Stanton and I look forward to reading more of the series.
Rating 5 stars

[Ivana Divac · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝘛𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳, 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘨𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘷𝘦𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘷𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘥𝘢𝘭𝘢𝘬𝘴, 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘰𝘯𝘭𝘺 𝘢 𝘧𝘦𝘸 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘦𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘶𝘯𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘶𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘧𝘦𝘸."

✨

This novella serves as a wonderful introduction to the upcoming vampire series, 𝘉𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘋𝘳𝘢𝘨𝘰𝘯. In a hauntingly atmospheric manner, the author narrates, simply but effectively, about Transylvanian medieval cities, citizens governed by superstitions, and darkness that lurks in the shadows, preying on the ignorant and unsuspecting.

Farida is only sixteen, yet forced to balance between numerous issues. She handles the grief due to loss of her mother, prejudice against the Romani, her overbearing sister, and most of all, the visions of impending doom threatening her people who do not want to believe the premonitions. The nature of the doom is sinister, surreal, and rooted in old fears of the supernatural. No one dares uttering the name of that particular malice, for if the shadows hear it, the 𝘷𝘢𝘮𝘱𝘪𝘳𝘦 will surely come, leaving nothing but death on the path of immortal longings. As she embarks on a journey to discover more about the nature of the danger and ways to stop it, one question remains unanswered until the very end: could one escape the darkness and defeat the destiny?

Read if you like:

✨ Vampire tales
✨ Historical settings
✨ Atmospheric horror
✨ Gritty reality
✨ Gothic thrillers
✨ Folklore
✨ Complex characters

[Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr. Stanton did a fabulous job of keeping me on the edge of my seat. I haven't read such a good horror story in a long time. The ending leaves you wondering if it's a cliffhanger or the end. So your mind is in turmoil.
Great job.
Cheers
Lynn 🇨🇦

[Lily Salinas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is truly incredible. My love of Gothic horror, vampires, and Transylvania, Romania, are all combined. The book was set in the ideal location. It was hard for me to put this book down. Furthermore, the cover is superb.

[Thebatandthebook · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love a good vampire story and this one did not disappointment. The slow burn, historical references and the little twist at the end have me excited to read more of the authors work.

Don't sit on this one, its definitely worth a read.

[Gary Groves · Rating 5 out of 5]

fantastic look into the lives of a Romani tribe in Transylvania in medieval times. amazing prequel to the series the blood of the damned. only just discovered Antony but now im a massive fan and cannot recommend his books highly enough.

[Kat Šprem · Rating 5 out of 5]

Short, spooky, fantastic!

[Daisy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling novella!

A great way to dive into the Blood of the Dragon Series.

[Jasmine Olivas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Speak of the Devil is set in a vividly drawn medieval Transylvania, and blends historical unrest with the looming shadow of something far older and more terrifying.

Farida is both vulnerable and determined, caught between the superstitions of man and the wrath of a monster. Her dynamic with the young knight adds a subtle but effective emotional thread, giving us hope for a future that will never exist. The gut wrenching ending had my jaw on the floor.

I'm looking forward to seeing this world explored further in the upcoming Blood of the Dragon series.

[Terry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Romani sisters go off into town to try and sell their herbs and flowers, pretty girls who are used to being coy and bringing money back to their camp to live on. This town though is very different. The people are wary and there are soldiers around.
One of the girls has a gift, though others don’t believe in it and she’s warned them of what she has seen.
She has warned them lots. Will they eventually listen?
This story has an over head doom and words that cannot be said out loud, as who knows what will happen if you repeat them or who or what will happen.
Very good read