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ETHOS
An idea—one that spreads and takes root—is a dangerous thing. It can corrupt, betray, mislead. Reality warps under the weight of an idea firmly planted. Cultures and countries descend and die because of ideas. Those simple philosophies become gods. They become an Ethos.
A dark fantasy anthology featuring six novelettes conjured by the Arcanist Guild.
EVERY MAN FOR HIMSELF by E J Doble: For a Fatewright, death is a choice - and for Solomon Kirke, that choice is simple. So when a small village summons him to kill a monster, he is duty-bound to answer the call - and with the reward on offer, there are certain things even a Fatewright can't ignore.
ONE MATTERS NOT by James Lloyd Dulin: Taken as a child. Trained to sacrifice. Pitted against monsters. If the order demands it, Ashel Celine will hunt down her old friend without a question. She has done worse for the greater good.
THE LIES OF XENDIS by Jonathan Neves Mayers: A war between divine beings caused the world of Xendis to be split into two lands. As the Continent declines whilst the Realm prospers with the gifts left behind after the war, a crew of thieves plan a treacherous journey to steal their power and spread it amongst their people.
ASCENSION by Morgan Shank: Life draws meaning from the eternal forms, and the forms direct life's course. The acolytes are taught to maintain this synergy...but how do they know the forms are true?
FROM THE HEART OF THE SEA by B. S. H. Garcia: As the sacred resonance that binds her ocean world begins to unravel, a devoted seer-in-training must choose between the tradition she was raised to protect and the sister willing to break it—before the deep consumes them both.
PHANTASM by Benjamin Aeveryn: Fire protects the monastery from the plague that ravaged the world, and the demonic carriers that still lurk beyond their walls. But when his only friend flees the safety of the monastery, one survivor begins to question everything he believes. Soon he just might discover how deeply it’s possible to lie to yourself.
A dark fantasy anthology featuring six novelettes conjured by the Arcanist Guild.
EVERY MAN FOR HIMSELF by E J Doble: For a Fatewright, death is a choice - and for Solomon Kirke, that choice is simple. So when a small village summons him to kill a monster, he is duty-bound to answer the call - and with the reward on offer, there are certain things even a Fatewright can't ignore.
ONE MATTERS NOT by James Lloyd Dulin: Taken as a child. Trained to sacrifice. Pitted against monsters. If the order demands it, Ashel Celine will hunt down her old friend without a question. She has done worse for the greater good.
THE LIES OF XENDIS by Jonathan Neves Mayers: A war between divine beings caused the world of Xendis to be split into two lands. As the Continent declines whilst the Realm prospers with the gifts left behind after the war, a crew of thieves plan a treacherous journey to steal their power and spread it amongst their people.
ASCENSION by Morgan Shank: Life draws meaning from the eternal forms, and the forms direct life's course. The acolytes are taught to maintain this synergy...but how do they know the forms are true?
FROM THE HEART OF THE SEA by B. S. H. Garcia: As the sacred resonance that binds her ocean world begins to unravel, a devoted seer-in-training must choose between the tradition she was raised to protect and the sister willing to break it—before the deep consumes them both.
PHANTASM by Benjamin Aeveryn: Fire protects the monastery from the plague that ravaged the world, and the demonic carriers that still lurk beyond their walls. But when his only friend flees the safety of the monastery, one survivor begins to question everything he believes. Soon he just might discover how deeply it’s possible to lie to yourself.
- GenresFantasy
405 pages, Hardcover
Published March 24, 2026
About the author
Benjamin Aeveryn
12 books44 followersBenjamin Aeveryn writes about love, nature, and monsters. He lives in Cambridgeshire with his beautiful wife and a grumpy old cat. His debut Salt in the Wound was both an SPFBO and BBNYA semi-finalist and his novella Blackcap was a SFINCS finalist.
Grab a free fantasy novella at benjaminaeveryn.com/mailing-list
Grab a free fantasy novella at benjaminaeveryn.com/mailing-list
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
October 8, 2025
This review was originally published on Grimdark Magazine
The ETHOS Kickstarter project runs from October 14th – 30th and if you wish to contribute you can do so here.
It’s almost expected to start a review of an anthology with the caveat that ‘it’s a mixed bag of hits and misses’, but sentiment definitely doesn’t hold true for ETHOS. Conjured up by The Arcanist Guild, a group of six wickedly talented indie authors known for their emotionally charged, morally complex, and thematically rich dark fantasy stories, this is a true rollercoaster of a novella collection that confronts the perilous beauty of thought itself. These dark tales are more than just some great fantastical stories to escape into; they are a deeply human exploration of what happens when ideas and beliefs transform from harmless sparks to raging infernos, capable of illumination, devastation, or both at once.
ETHOS opens strong with E.J. Doble’s “Every Man For Himself”, a deliciously depraved grimdark fantasy adventure oozing with Doble’s signature lush prose and dense atmosphere that immediately sets the tone for the stories to come. To me, this story gave off strong The Witcher vibes as we follow the fatewright Solomon Kirke and his trusty horse Sartre on their latest mission to save a town from a feared Cerberus beast. Sounds like a fun monster hunter adventure, until Doble decides to throw in one of his (in?)famous diabolical twists in the final few pages that completely recontextualizes everything you thought you knew. Forget morally grey, this is moral blackness at its very best.
From there, we are pulled into James Lloyd Dulin’s “One Matters Not”, the only novella in ETHOS that is written in first person. And I can’t tell if it was because of that more intimate perspective or simply because of how Dulin’s trademark enthralling prose shines here, but I was completely hooked from beginning to end. In this novella we are transported into the mind of Ashel Seline, a devout Servant of Ikon’s Order whose entire dogma is based on the idea that ‘one matters not in the fate of the many’. But what happens when cracks start to form and all the ‘ones’ start to pile up into mountains of many? Expect some harsh truths that make you question not just the characters’ (in)actions, but also your own.
Now, whereas the first two novellas fall firmly into the (grim)dark epic fantasy realm, Jonathan Neves Mayers’ “The Lies of Xendis” transports the reader into a more sci-fantasy world where technology, magic, and humanity clash. From reading Mayers’ novel Vevin Song, I already knew that he excels in writing wildly imaginative stories rooted in raw, human emotion, but I wasn’t quite prepared for how brutally this story would punch me in the gut. A soon-to-be father is roped into a dangerous mission by a family of daredevils to travel to the ‘evil’ Realm and bring their technology/magic back to his homeland in hopes of better protecting his (future) family. But pure intentions don’t always make for heroic journeys, especially not when the temptation of the tantalising taste of power is thrown into the mix.
As we cross the midway point of ETHOS, we are treated to Morgan Shanks’ “Ascension”, which is the shortest novella of the bunch, yet it took me the longest to read. See, this might seem like a simple fated pilgrimage through some desolate Wastes in a race against time, but I constantly found myself having to re-read passages because of the manic feverdream vibes that had me going: “wait, what the hell did I just read?”. I can’t say that I ever felt really grounded here, but the ending sure packed a big punch. Also, it’s got telepathically talking dragons, so you won’t hear me complaining.
From the shortest novella we then dive into the longest (and only dual POV) novella of ETHOS, in which B.S.H. Garcia explores a new corner of her already established world of Quinaria. I’ll admit that “From the Heart of the Sea” probably had a bit of an unfair advantage over the others for me because I already adore this world/series, but then I also think this underwater adventure of two myrem (fish-folk) sisters torn between their love for each other and their conflicting beliefs really shines as a standalone story that any dark epic fantasy lover will enjoy regardless of prior knowledge of this world. It’s epic, it’s mysterious, it’s thrilling, it’s vulnerable, it’s heartfelt, and it packs some very tragic consequences and sacrifices. In other words, it’s just Garcia doing what Garcia does best.
Now, ETHOS started with a bang and maintained quality all the way through, but I have to admit that the final novella, “Phantasm”, is a strong case of ‘save the best for last’ for me. This story sent me spiralling right along with the protagonist and had me questioning/distrusting everyone and everything I read, and I love it all the more for it. Incredible atmosphere, powerful character development, and some of the best psychological horror mindfuckery through the exploration of cultism, propaganda, manipulation, and indoctrination. Benjamin Aeveryn is the only new-to-me author of this collection for me, but consider him added to the ‘new favourite author’ list now.
While each of these novellas can easily be read in a single sitting, they pack a level of depth, nuance, emotion, and impact that will make them linger on in your mind, heart, and soul for a long time to come. In a world where dangerous extremist thinking is becoming ever more prevalent and malicious, ETHOS stands out as an important and unforgettable collection that serves as a dire warning, all while never forgetting to spark wonder, deliver thrills, and ultimately provide a safe space to explore and confront some difficult real world topics through a dark yet beautiful fantastical lens. This is simply the exceptional power of the fantasy genre on full display, and I truly can’t recommend it highly enough.
Thank you to The Arcanist Guild for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
The ETHOS Kickstarter project runs from October 14th – 30th and if you wish to contribute you can do so here.
It’s almost expected to start a review of an anthology with the caveat that ‘it’s a mixed bag of hits and misses’, but sentiment definitely doesn’t hold true for ETHOS. Conjured up by The Arcanist Guild, a group of six wickedly talented indie authors known for their emotionally charged, morally complex, and thematically rich dark fantasy stories, this is a true rollercoaster of a novella collection that confronts the perilous beauty of thought itself. These dark tales are more than just some great fantastical stories to escape into; they are a deeply human exploration of what happens when ideas and beliefs transform from harmless sparks to raging infernos, capable of illumination, devastation, or both at once.
ETHOS opens strong with E.J. Doble’s “Every Man For Himself”, a deliciously depraved grimdark fantasy adventure oozing with Doble’s signature lush prose and dense atmosphere that immediately sets the tone for the stories to come. To me, this story gave off strong The Witcher vibes as we follow the fatewright Solomon Kirke and his trusty horse Sartre on their latest mission to save a town from a feared Cerberus beast. Sounds like a fun monster hunter adventure, until Doble decides to throw in one of his (in?)famous diabolical twists in the final few pages that completely recontextualizes everything you thought you knew. Forget morally grey, this is moral blackness at its very best.
From there, we are pulled into James Lloyd Dulin’s “One Matters Not”, the only novella in ETHOS that is written in first person. And I can’t tell if it was because of that more intimate perspective or simply because of how Dulin’s trademark enthralling prose shines here, but I was completely hooked from beginning to end. In this novella we are transported into the mind of Ashel Seline, a devout Servant of Ikon’s Order whose entire dogma is based on the idea that ‘one matters not in the fate of the many’. But what happens when cracks start to form and all the ‘ones’ start to pile up into mountains of many? Expect some harsh truths that make you question not just the characters’ (in)actions, but also your own.
Now, whereas the first two novellas fall firmly into the (grim)dark epic fantasy realm, Jonathan Neves Mayers’ “The Lies of Xendis” transports the reader into a more sci-fantasy world where technology, magic, and humanity clash. From reading Mayers’ novel Vevin Song, I already knew that he excels in writing wildly imaginative stories rooted in raw, human emotion, but I wasn’t quite prepared for how brutally this story would punch me in the gut. A soon-to-be father is roped into a dangerous mission by a family of daredevils to travel to the ‘evil’ Realm and bring their technology/magic back to his homeland in hopes of better protecting his (future) family. But pure intentions don’t always make for heroic journeys, especially not when the temptation of the tantalising taste of power is thrown into the mix.
As we cross the midway point of ETHOS, we are treated to Morgan Shanks’ “Ascension”, which is the shortest novella of the bunch, yet it took me the longest to read. See, this might seem like a simple fated pilgrimage through some desolate Wastes in a race against time, but I constantly found myself having to re-read passages because of the manic feverdream vibes that had me going: “wait, what the hell did I just read?”. I can’t say that I ever felt really grounded here, but the ending sure packed a big punch. Also, it’s got telepathically talking dragons, so you won’t hear me complaining.
From the shortest novella we then dive into the longest (and only dual POV) novella of ETHOS, in which B.S.H. Garcia explores a new corner of her already established world of Quinaria. I’ll admit that “From the Heart of the Sea” probably had a bit of an unfair advantage over the others for me because I already adore this world/series, but then I also think this underwater adventure of two myrem (fish-folk) sisters torn between their love for each other and their conflicting beliefs really shines as a standalone story that any dark epic fantasy lover will enjoy regardless of prior knowledge of this world. It’s epic, it’s mysterious, it’s thrilling, it’s vulnerable, it’s heartfelt, and it packs some very tragic consequences and sacrifices. In other words, it’s just Garcia doing what Garcia does best.
Now, ETHOS started with a bang and maintained quality all the way through, but I have to admit that the final novella, “Phantasm”, is a strong case of ‘save the best for last’ for me. This story sent me spiralling right along with the protagonist and had me questioning/distrusting everyone and everything I read, and I love it all the more for it. Incredible atmosphere, powerful character development, and some of the best psychological horror mindfuckery through the exploration of cultism, propaganda, manipulation, and indoctrination. Benjamin Aeveryn is the only new-to-me author of this collection for me, but consider him added to the ‘new favourite author’ list now.
While each of these novellas can easily be read in a single sitting, they pack a level of depth, nuance, emotion, and impact that will make them linger on in your mind, heart, and soul for a long time to come. In a world where dangerous extremist thinking is becoming ever more prevalent and malicious, ETHOS stands out as an important and unforgettable collection that serves as a dire warning, all while never forgetting to spark wonder, deliver thrills, and ultimately provide a safe space to explore and confront some difficult real world topics through a dark yet beautiful fantastical lens. This is simply the exceptional power of the fantasy genre on full display, and I truly can’t recommend it highly enough.
Thank you to The Arcanist Guild for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 27, 2025
Here we have an anthology (curated by the ArcanistGuild) for dark-fantasy lovers; people who enjoy heavy atmosphere, the study of the human condition, world-shattering events and moments of power in their books. Unique, mind-boggling, intense, ETHOS is such a brilliant example of what fantasy can achieve, even in novella-sized works.
Read
October 8, 2025A dark fantasy anthology which profoundly questions what makes us human and what morals should guide us.
EVERY MAN FOR HIMSELF by EJ DOBLE
As a fatewright, it is imperative that Kirke follow the strictures of his creed. His entire life depends on his ability to stay Worthy.
Think the Witcher with elemental magic with much darker purposes.
This is Nature vs Nurture LITERALLY.
What would you give up for power and immortality? Is death what makes us human?
ONE MATTERS NOT by JAMES LLOYD DULIN
This is one I’d love to have a full book on.
It starts with a woman from the Ikon Order buying fate-touched children to a conspiracy that brings friends against each other. It had incredible battle scenes that were very visual.
THE LIES OF XENDIS by JONATHAN NEVES MAYERS
A sea-faring thief, an island of evil with Healing magic and a decision that changes everything.
It had a good premise, but I think it needed slightly more pages to be fleshed out as I still had many questions at the end.
ASCENSION by MORGAN SHANK
Humans and dragons seeking eternity.
I despised the main character which was the point, but in such a short format, I couldn’t latch onto the world or the characters around them to feel invested.
This was more philosophical.
FROM THE HEART OF THE SEA by B. S. H. GARCIA
Sea serpents and a rush to save the reef where two sisters must learn to trust each other.
Ambitious world-building with a pro-active heroine.
What is the difference between too reckless or too fearful?
We were thrust into a fully thought-out world, but I struggled to visualise it as so much was squeezed in.
PHANTASM by BENJAMIN AEVERYN
This one is perfect for spooky season.
Like, what a killer opening line:
They had to burn the dead, but they chose to burn the living.
An order of monks are taught to burn the demons who are carriers of the plague, even if they have your loved one’s faces.
What if it turns out the monks are being used? What if they are keeping people ignorant to control them, making them afraid of the outside world?
This one was the most thought provoking.
ARC GIFTED FOR REVIEW.
I hate rating anthologies as I always love some and want more from others which could have been achieved with more page count.
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EVERY MAN FOR HIMSELF by EJ DOBLE
As a fatewright, it is imperative that Kirke follow the strictures of his creed. His entire life depends on his ability to stay Worthy.
Think the Witcher with elemental magic with much darker purposes.
This is Nature vs Nurture LITERALLY.
What would you give up for power and immortality? Is death what makes us human?
ONE MATTERS NOT by JAMES LLOYD DULIN
This is one I’d love to have a full book on.
It starts with a woman from the Ikon Order buying fate-touched children to a conspiracy that brings friends against each other. It had incredible battle scenes that were very visual.
THE LIES OF XENDIS by JONATHAN NEVES MAYERS
A sea-faring thief, an island of evil with Healing magic and a decision that changes everything.
It had a good premise, but I think it needed slightly more pages to be fleshed out as I still had many questions at the end.
ASCENSION by MORGAN SHANK
Humans and dragons seeking eternity.
I despised the main character which was the point, but in such a short format, I couldn’t latch onto the world or the characters around them to feel invested.
This was more philosophical.
FROM THE HEART OF THE SEA by B. S. H. GARCIA
Sea serpents and a rush to save the reef where two sisters must learn to trust each other.
Ambitious world-building with a pro-active heroine.
What is the difference between too reckless or too fearful?
We were thrust into a fully thought-out world, but I struggled to visualise it as so much was squeezed in.
PHANTASM by BENJAMIN AEVERYN
This one is perfect for spooky season.
Like, what a killer opening line:
They had to burn the dead, but they chose to burn the living.
An order of monks are taught to burn the demons who are carriers of the plague, even if they have your loved one’s faces.
What if it turns out the monks are being used? What if they are keeping people ignorant to control them, making them afraid of the outside world?
This one was the most thought provoking.
ARC GIFTED FOR REVIEW.
I hate rating anthologies as I always love some and want more from others which could have been achieved with more page count.
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Tiktok
October 7, 2025
All is not what it seems in these twisted dark fantasy short stories. Plenty of manipulation, deception and self interest fuel its engine throughout.
The heart stopping action never quits in EJ Doble’s Every Man for himself. A Fatewright (somewhat of a Witcher character) is tasked to take down a cerebrus. Despite the devastation around him, emotion seems to elude this one. Pretty great opener.
Former friends are pitted against one another in One Matters Not (a demon infested world) by James Lloyd Dulin. It is a thought provoking tale of doing what’s right. Whether that be duty, friendship, loyalty or following your gut.
In The Lies of Xendis by Jonathan Nieves Meyers is tale of hidden ancestry. It is the bonds between family and the worthiness of spiritual power. Between doing what is “right” and doing what is right for you. The individual. Deception, power and questionable loyalty highlight this tale.
Ascension by Morgan Shank presents a dismal post apocalyptic world of Acolytes and dragons. Where rifts to other dimensions promise potential futures but perhaps not for all.
From the Heart of the Sea by B.S.H. Garcia tells the story of two sisters in conflict. When their undersea kingdom faces doom, tradition battles unknown risk. Cataclysmic events cloud their trust as their love as siblings is put to the test.
Phantasm by Benjamin Aeveryn tells a tale of faith through a deadly plague. Deception reigns supreme as a mind disease spreads. Creatures wearing faces of those loved? Abductions? People burned alive? Questions of who is truthful and what to believe lie at the centre of this dark short story.
I found all of these full of blitzing action, mystery and darkness. Excellent dystopian horror fantasy to make you feel unsettled and queasy.
Loved each one! Thanks to the authors for providing this arc!
The heart stopping action never quits in EJ Doble’s Every Man for himself. A Fatewright (somewhat of a Witcher character) is tasked to take down a cerebrus. Despite the devastation around him, emotion seems to elude this one. Pretty great opener.
Former friends are pitted against one another in One Matters Not (a demon infested world) by James Lloyd Dulin. It is a thought provoking tale of doing what’s right. Whether that be duty, friendship, loyalty or following your gut.
In The Lies of Xendis by Jonathan Nieves Meyers is tale of hidden ancestry. It is the bonds between family and the worthiness of spiritual power. Between doing what is “right” and doing what is right for you. The individual. Deception, power and questionable loyalty highlight this tale.
Ascension by Morgan Shank presents a dismal post apocalyptic world of Acolytes and dragons. Where rifts to other dimensions promise potential futures but perhaps not for all.
From the Heart of the Sea by B.S.H. Garcia tells the story of two sisters in conflict. When their undersea kingdom faces doom, tradition battles unknown risk. Cataclysmic events cloud their trust as their love as siblings is put to the test.
Phantasm by Benjamin Aeveryn tells a tale of faith through a deadly plague. Deception reigns supreme as a mind disease spreads. Creatures wearing faces of those loved? Abductions? People burned alive? Questions of who is truthful and what to believe lie at the centre of this dark short story.
I found all of these full of blitzing action, mystery and darkness. Excellent dystopian horror fantasy to make you feel unsettled and queasy.
Loved each one! Thanks to the authors for providing this arc!
Read
October 14, 2025Updated release date: ebooks going live March 24th, 2026!
April 3, 2026
I got this as an ARC and I really enjoyed my time with it. If you are into fantasy I would highly recommend it! This is a wonderful anthology compromising of six short stories / novellas.
YouTube Review: https://youtu.be/T_7wPqrAjwo
YouTube Review: https://youtu.be/T_7wPqrAjwo
October 6, 2025
I was given this ARC in exchange for an honest review. From the high gates of eternity to the depths of the dark ocean, "Ethos" keeps the reader hooked through battles, conspiracies, and
mortals facing the beasts of the world. Themes of morality, power,
relationships, and the things that make us human are explored. This
collection of stories is great for any dark fantasy lover.
mortals facing the beasts of the world. Themes of morality, power,
relationships, and the things that make us human are explored. This
collection of stories is great for any dark fantasy lover.
October 7, 2025
I’m usually wary about anthologies. I sometimes find it difficult to get fully invested in a short story, as I prefer having more time to understand a character's motivation and explore a world in detail.
Ethos is not one of those anthologies. The six entries are either long enough to give you time to connect with the storyteller and care about them, or are so vivid that they provide you with lots of detail to explore the world together with the MC.
And these worlds are chock full of imagination. Meet dragons, sea serpents, and Cerberus. Hear the lies, feel the grief, and find love. This anthology is so vibrant, and I love that each story is incredibly unique in its storytelling approach and prose, with some following up on the author’s existing works and some giving you a whole new world to explore. Either way, you can feel that all six come from the heart.
Every Man for Himself
A horse named Sartre? Yes, please! Loved the little hints at philosophy here. You had me fooled till the end.
One Matters Not
This one hurt! From the fate-driven beginning to the desperate ending.
The Lies of Xendis
“Lies” is the right word here. So many dark and twisty turns, wow! Don’t trust anyone!
Ascension
Fantastic take on the prophecy trope with incredible writing skills. Also, dragons!
From the Heart of the Sea
I had a moment where I had to come up for air, literally. This story takes you deep into the ocean and you can feel the pressure.
Phantasm
What is real and what isn’t? Talk about a dark environment where you really want to trust that glimmer of hope.
I haven’t read most of these author’s other books, so the anthology is my first experience with their writing style. I definitely have to check them out now ;)
Thanks to the Arcanist Guild for sending me an eArc without any expectation. All opinions are my own.
Ethos is not one of those anthologies. The six entries are either long enough to give you time to connect with the storyteller and care about them, or are so vivid that they provide you with lots of detail to explore the world together with the MC.
And these worlds are chock full of imagination. Meet dragons, sea serpents, and Cerberus. Hear the lies, feel the grief, and find love. This anthology is so vibrant, and I love that each story is incredibly unique in its storytelling approach and prose, with some following up on the author’s existing works and some giving you a whole new world to explore. Either way, you can feel that all six come from the heart.
Every Man for Himself
A horse named Sartre? Yes, please! Loved the little hints at philosophy here. You had me fooled till the end.
One Matters Not
This one hurt! From the fate-driven beginning to the desperate ending.
The Lies of Xendis
“Lies” is the right word here. So many dark and twisty turns, wow! Don’t trust anyone!
Ascension
Fantastic take on the prophecy trope with incredible writing skills. Also, dragons!
From the Heart of the Sea
I had a moment where I had to come up for air, literally. This story takes you deep into the ocean and you can feel the pressure.
Phantasm
What is real and what isn’t? Talk about a dark environment where you really want to trust that glimmer of hope.
I haven’t read most of these author’s other books, so the anthology is my first experience with their writing style. I definitely have to check them out now ;)
Thanks to the Arcanist Guild for sending me an eArc without any expectation. All opinions are my own.
April 16, 2026
A triumphant collection of short stories, primed to get you blood pumping and your morals... confused. By painting amazing backdrops... from plain fantasy towns tormented by monsters, to ethereal sea dwellers fighting for their home... these lush worlds showcase the real spectacle on display... the "What would you do" problem. When faced with a terrible reality or a ruinous cost, what would you choose?
Agree or disagree with our twisted anti-heros, you are assured to enjoy every bloodstained word.
Agree or disagree with our twisted anti-heros, you are assured to enjoy every bloodstained word.
November 11, 2025
I received an ARC for an honest review.
‘Ethos’ is a dark fantasy anthology of short stories that are thematically tied together by various protagonists who believe in a strong idea or ethos. I was definitely intrigued when I heard the concept and I was excited to read the anthology as there were several authors I’ve read from before, and several authors that were new to me.
Every Man for Himself
I didn’t think the ethos of this short story was explored to its fullest potential. It was the type of ethos that could potentially change how the world works at a social, cultural, and political level and the worldbuilding wasn’t deep enough to satisfy me with the ethos presented. In addition, there was a drastic tonal shift at the end of the story that could be divisive among readers, but it didn’t work for me. It felt too disjointed and I don’t think the addition strengthened the story.
One Matters Not
I absolutely loved this short story. This one has become one of my favorite short stories that I’ve read this year. I loved how the protagonist’s voice was infused in every line of the narrative. Not only did the story have great voice, but it was also an engaging character-driven story which was tightly plotted, with a fun magic system and moments of action to display that magic system. The relationship between the protagonist and the friend also had great emotional resonance. This one simply hit all the notes for me. Five stars.
The Lies of Xendis
This story read like an epic fantasy writer still trying to find their voice as a short story writer. There were too many elements I wish had been edited down to form a more cohesive and efficient story. For example, there was a flashback scene that was completely unnecessary and could have been cut. I also think this short story could have been told with more effectiveness with less characters. Although it had an interesting ethos, the story simply wasn’t as economical as it could have been.
Ascension
The prose of this short story didn’t personally vibe with me. There was a lot of empty and vague description, which is a bit of a pet peeve of mine, and I wish the prose was much tighter. There was also a lot of telling instead of showing and I found it difficult to get rooted in the story.
From the Heart of the Sea
This was my first read from B.S.H Garcia, and it certainly won’t be the last. This story hands-down had my favorite setting. I truly enjoyed exploring the lush underwater worldbuilding that Garcia presented to the readers. While I thought the pacing dragged in the middle, I thought this was a very strong story about two sisters pitted against each other who hold their own differing ethos. Four stars.
Phantasm
This was my second favorite story of the anthology. I enjoyed the prose, the characters, and the themes presented in this one. Although, it was one of the darkest stories of the anthology, the darkness served the exploration of the ethos as told through the eyes of a character trying to leave a cult in a post-apocalyptic world. Above all, I enjoyed how cleverly subversive and relevant this story is to our current times. Out of all the stories in the anthology, this one felt the most important and I would argue is the story that anchors the anthology’s purpose. I’m definitely going to have to read more Benjamin Aeveryn. Five stars.
In sum, the biggest highlights of this anthology for me were the short stories, One Matters Not by James Dulin and Phantasm by Benjamin Averyn. In anthologies, I don’t expect all of the stories to be my favorites but I’m glad I was introduced to more authors to put higher on my TBR. And congratulations on funding the Kickstarter!
Overall, I thought this was a solid anthology.
Indie Rating: 5 stars
Personal Rating: 3.5 stars
‘Ethos’ is a dark fantasy anthology of short stories that are thematically tied together by various protagonists who believe in a strong idea or ethos. I was definitely intrigued when I heard the concept and I was excited to read the anthology as there were several authors I’ve read from before, and several authors that were new to me.
Every Man for Himself
I didn’t think the ethos of this short story was explored to its fullest potential. It was the type of ethos that could potentially change how the world works at a social, cultural, and political level and the worldbuilding wasn’t deep enough to satisfy me with the ethos presented. In addition, there was a drastic tonal shift at the end of the story that could be divisive among readers, but it didn’t work for me. It felt too disjointed and I don’t think the addition strengthened the story.
One Matters Not
I absolutely loved this short story. This one has become one of my favorite short stories that I’ve read this year. I loved how the protagonist’s voice was infused in every line of the narrative. Not only did the story have great voice, but it was also an engaging character-driven story which was tightly plotted, with a fun magic system and moments of action to display that magic system. The relationship between the protagonist and the friend also had great emotional resonance. This one simply hit all the notes for me. Five stars.
The Lies of Xendis
This story read like an epic fantasy writer still trying to find their voice as a short story writer. There were too many elements I wish had been edited down to form a more cohesive and efficient story. For example, there was a flashback scene that was completely unnecessary and could have been cut. I also think this short story could have been told with more effectiveness with less characters. Although it had an interesting ethos, the story simply wasn’t as economical as it could have been.
Ascension
The prose of this short story didn’t personally vibe with me. There was a lot of empty and vague description, which is a bit of a pet peeve of mine, and I wish the prose was much tighter. There was also a lot of telling instead of showing and I found it difficult to get rooted in the story.
From the Heart of the Sea
This was my first read from B.S.H Garcia, and it certainly won’t be the last. This story hands-down had my favorite setting. I truly enjoyed exploring the lush underwater worldbuilding that Garcia presented to the readers. While I thought the pacing dragged in the middle, I thought this was a very strong story about two sisters pitted against each other who hold their own differing ethos. Four stars.
Phantasm
This was my second favorite story of the anthology. I enjoyed the prose, the characters, and the themes presented in this one. Although, it was one of the darkest stories of the anthology, the darkness served the exploration of the ethos as told through the eyes of a character trying to leave a cult in a post-apocalyptic world. Above all, I enjoyed how cleverly subversive and relevant this story is to our current times. Out of all the stories in the anthology, this one felt the most important and I would argue is the story that anchors the anthology’s purpose. I’m definitely going to have to read more Benjamin Aeveryn. Five stars.
In sum, the biggest highlights of this anthology for me were the short stories, One Matters Not by James Dulin and Phantasm by Benjamin Averyn. In anthologies, I don’t expect all of the stories to be my favorites but I’m glad I was introduced to more authors to put higher on my TBR. And congratulations on funding the Kickstarter!
Overall, I thought this was a solid anthology.
Indie Rating: 5 stars
Personal Rating: 3.5 stars
October 7, 2025
This anthology is a tour de force of fantasy, tackling deep-rooted beliefs and featuring strong-headed characters. Six powerhouse authors join forces to explore stories and worlds where characters see their values and ideals tested through world-shattering stakes. A must-read.
I was lucky enough to be offered an early copy of this anthology and it didn't disappoint.
Six voices. Six stories. Six worlds. But one common thread: ethos.
I'm of the opinion that stories are nothing without strong characters, and characters need a certain belief system to be strong. As readers, we need to understand their character, their personalities, the creeds and beliefs guiding them through life. It is that personality, and those values that define their paths in life, guide their actions... and even their mistakes. All of these six stories feature strong-willed characters with wildly different belief systems, but the strongest of convictions nonetheless.
It was a delight finishing up a story only to be rewarded with another amazing world and characters to follow on the next one.
Want to know more? You'll have to back the campaign and find out for yourself.
I was lucky enough to be offered an early copy of this anthology and it didn't disappoint.
Six voices. Six stories. Six worlds. But one common thread: ethos.
I'm of the opinion that stories are nothing without strong characters, and characters need a certain belief system to be strong. As readers, we need to understand their character, their personalities, the creeds and beliefs guiding them through life. It is that personality, and those values that define their paths in life, guide their actions... and even their mistakes. All of these six stories feature strong-willed characters with wildly different belief systems, but the strongest of convictions nonetheless.
It was a delight finishing up a story only to be rewarded with another amazing world and characters to follow on the next one.
Want to know more? You'll have to back the campaign and find out for yourself.
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