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That Which Should Not Be #2
He Who Walks in Shadow
The Incendium Maleficarum has been lost and Carter Weston presumed dead, but the story of That Which Should Not Be is only just beginning. Now Carter’s only daughter, Rachel Jones, and his oldest friend, Henry Armitage, must embark on an epic journey that will take them from the hell-blasted Tunguska forest to the catacombs of Paris to the shores of the Scottish Isles.
They are in a race against time, for in France, strange murders and whispers of occult rituals herald the rise of an ancient evil bent on plunging the world into eternal darkness.
It is up to Rachel and Henry to learn Carter’s fate, recover the Incendium Maleficarum, and perhaps even save the world.
They are in a race against time, for in France, strange murders and whispers of occult rituals herald the rise of an ancient evil bent on plunging the world into eternal darkness.
It is up to Rachel and Henry to learn Carter’s fate, recover the Incendium Maleficarum, and perhaps even save the world.
274 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2015
44 people are currently reading
1605 people want to read
About the author
Brett J. Talley
21 books363 followersVisit me at www.brettjtalley.com!
Brett J. Talley is the author of several best-selling novels and anthologies, including That Which Should Not Be, He Who Walks in Shadows, and The Fiddle is the Devil’s Instrument. He has been twice nominated for the Bram Stoker Award, the highest honor in horror fiction. He lives in Alabama with his wife, Annie, and their dog, Nyarlathotep, the barking chaos (Nyla for short).
Brett J. Talley is the author of several best-selling novels and anthologies, including That Which Should Not Be, He Who Walks in Shadows, and The Fiddle is the Devil’s Instrument. He has been twice nominated for the Bram Stoker Award, the highest honor in horror fiction. He lives in Alabama with his wife, Annie, and their dog, Nyarlathotep, the barking chaos (Nyla for short).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
December 3, 2019
Τον Τάλλευ τον γνώρισα μέσα από το That Which Should Not Be - ένα μυθιστόρημα που περιβάλλεται από την αγάπη των λίγων που ξέρουν από σωστό τρόμο, περιβάλλεται από την αχλή του πετυχημένου, δαφνοστεφανωμένου underground δημιουργήματος και χάρισε στον Talley πολλά και καλά βραβεία. Εμένα μου είχε αρέσει, ως μια πολύ καλογραμμένη fan fiction δημιουργία. Γράφει καλά, σέβεται τους προπάτορες και, ενώ γράφει εντός των καλά περιφραγμένων συνόρων του είδους, δεν κάνει εκπτώσεις στην γραφή του. Τούτο εδώ είναι η συνέχεια. Τα κατάφερε να ανταπεξέλθει στις προσδοκίες που έπλασε το πρώτο του;
Ο κόσμος μαθαίνει, γίνεται έμπειρος, βελτιώνει την συνταγή του, επαναθεωρέι την προσέγγισή του στους στόχους του. Πως γίνεται οι συνέχειες να υποπύπτουν στον κανόνα της μετριότητας; Το He Who Walks in Shadow αποτελεί ένα παράδειγμα πως μια συνέχεια μπορεί όχι μόνο να είναι αντάξια του αυθεντικού βιβλίου, αλλά να το υπερκεράσει, προσφέροντας μια πιο ολοκληρωμένη άποψη του δημιουργού. Το πρώτο βιβλίο αν και απολαυστικό, αποτελούσε ένα κράμα Λάβκραφτ, βαμπιρικού/Στοκερικού τρόμου, μαγισσών, ναυτικών ιστοριών - είχε απ' όλα και αυτό το έκανε να φαίνεται σανς ένας φόρος τιμής στα αγαπημένα είδη και όχι μια ιστορία με συνοχή και σαφή μυθοπλαστικό προσανατολισμό. Εδώ ο Ταλλευ παίρνει τα υλικά του, την αγάπη για την γοτθική λογοτεχνία -συναισθηματισμός, ήρωες που διέπονται από κώδικες τιμής, ξεκάθαρος διαχωρισμός καλών και κακών, στομφώδεις δηλώσεις και φορτισμένοι διάλογοι, ανιδιοτέλεια και προσήλωση στους στόχους που ορίζουν τις ζωές των χαρακτήρων-, και συγκεντρώνετια σε μια ιστορία η οποία θα ταξιδέψει τον αναγνώστη σε όλον τον κόσμο, ο οποίος βρίσκεται πιο κοντά από ποτέ στην απόλυτη καταστροφή και οριστική κυριαρχία των Μεγάλων Παλαιών.
Οι αναζητήσεις ανα την υφήλιο, λίγο πριν το ξέσπασμα του Β Παγκοσμίου πολέμου, με ένα ναζί να αποτελεί έναν από τους "κακούς", φέρνει στο νου Ιντιάνα Τζόουνς. Το βιβλίο είναι μια άκρως απολαυστική περιπέτεια κοσμικού τρόμου. Στις σελίδες παρελαύνουν μύθοι και θρύλοι από όλες τις γωνιές, φτάνοντας βαθιά στις ομίχλες μέσα στις οποίες κρύβονται αρχαίες θρησκέις και χαμένοι λαοί.
Ο Τάλλευ, νομίζω, με αυτό το βιβλίο σχηματίζει ξεκάθαρα τις επιδιώξεις του για μια σειρά. Είναι το πιο διασκεδαστικό, απολαυστικό βιβλίο που διάβασα αυτή τη χρονιά - ένα λουκούμι καλογραμμένο, από αυτά που ένας φαν περιμένει χρόνια να γράψει κάποιος - ένα αμάγαλμα όλων των καλών πραμάτων που συνθέτουν την σωστή λογοτεχνία τρόμου. Ακόμα περισσότερο, αποτελεί ένα μυθιστόρημα που θα απολαύσει οποιοσδήποτε θέλει να διαβάσει μια περιπέτεια έντονων συγκινήσεων, με έντονα αρώματα νοσταλγίας για πράματα που ήταν κάποτε και τώρα πια αποτελούν αναμνήσεις.
Ο κόσμος μαθαίνει, γίνεται έμπειρος, βελτιώνει την συνταγή του, επαναθεωρέι την προσέγγισή του στους στόχους του. Πως γίνεται οι συνέχειες να υποπύπτουν στον κανόνα της μετριότητας; Το He Who Walks in Shadow αποτελεί ένα παράδειγμα πως μια συνέχεια μπορεί όχι μόνο να είναι αντάξια του αυθεντικού βιβλίου, αλλά να το υπερκεράσει, προσφέροντας μια πιο ολοκληρωμένη άποψη του δημιουργού. Το πρώτο βιβλίο αν και απολαυστικό, αποτελούσε ένα κράμα Λάβκραφτ, βαμπιρικού/Στοκερικού τρόμου, μαγισσών, ναυτικών ιστοριών - είχε απ' όλα και αυτό το έκανε να φαίνεται σανς ένας φόρος τιμής στα αγαπημένα είδη και όχι μια ιστορία με συνοχή και σαφή μυθοπλαστικό προσανατολισμό. Εδώ ο Ταλλευ παίρνει τα υλικά του, την αγάπη για την γοτθική λογοτεχνία -συναισθηματισμός, ήρωες που διέπονται από κώδικες τιμής, ξεκάθαρος διαχωρισμός καλών και κακών, στομφώδεις δηλώσεις και φορτισμένοι διάλογοι, ανιδιοτέλεια και προσήλωση στους στόχους που ορίζουν τις ζωές των χαρακτήρων-, και συγκεντρώνετια σε μια ιστορία η οποία θα ταξιδέψει τον αναγνώστη σε όλον τον κόσμο, ο οποίος βρίσκεται πιο κοντά από ποτέ στην απόλυτη καταστροφή και οριστική κυριαρχία των Μεγάλων Παλαιών.
Οι αναζητήσεις ανα την υφήλιο, λίγο πριν το ξέσπασμα του Β Παγκοσμίου πολέμου, με ένα ναζί να αποτελεί έναν από τους "κακούς", φέρνει στο νου Ιντιάνα Τζόουνς. Το βιβλίο είναι μια άκρως απολαυστική περιπέτεια κοσμικού τρόμου. Στις σελίδες παρελαύνουν μύθοι και θρύλοι από όλες τις γωνιές, φτάνοντας βαθιά στις ομίχλες μέσα στις οποίες κρύβονται αρχαίες θρησκέις και χαμένοι λαοί.
Ο Τάλλευ, νομίζω, με αυτό το βιβλίο σχηματίζει ξεκάθαρα τις επιδιώξεις του για μια σειρά. Είναι το πιο διασκεδαστικό, απολαυστικό βιβλίο που διάβασα αυτή τη χρονιά - ένα λουκούμι καλογραμμένο, από αυτά που ένας φαν περιμένει χρόνια να γράψει κάποιος - ένα αμάγαλμα όλων των καλών πραμάτων που συνθέτουν την σωστή λογοτεχνία τρόμου. Ακόμα περισσότερο, αποτελεί ένα μυθιστόρημα που θα απολαύσει οποιοσδήποτε θέλει να διαβάσει μια περιπέτεια έντονων συγκινήσεων, με έντονα αρώματα νοσταλγίας για πράματα που ήταν κάποτε και τώρα πια αποτελούν αναμνήσεις.
May 7, 2015
4.5 stars
HE WHO WALKS IN SHADOW is the sequel to Brett Talley's amazing Lovecraftian novel THAT WHICH SHOULD NOT BE. This is the story of Dr. Carter Weston after those events, as he continues the fight to contain "The Old Ones" and guard the barrier keeping them from rising again and obliterating humanity. With him in this journey is his daughter, Rachael Jones, and companion, Henry Armitage. Through the tales told within their individual journals and other documents, we are shown the current situation, and several key scenes from Weston's past adventures. In this novel, the focus is on Nyarlanthotep--a guardian set upon awakening "The Old Ones" and freeing them from their slumber.
From the very beginning of this novel, the Lovecraftian tone is set. "As surely as one age ends, another must begin--an ever turning back to that which came before. To that which should not be. For in all truth is this--that is not dead which can eternal lie."
"And the darkness does not forget."
I felt that the information being presented in the form of the journals gave significant leverage to the characterization of each of our key players, as we were able to see them as "honestly" as they saw themselves and the events around them. This was a style that kept up a steady pace, and removed any confusion as to what year/event we were "witnessing", as the date was stated in each entry.
Brett Talley does Lovecraftian style with a flair entirely in sync with his subject matter. His use of language adds tremendously to the scenes he sets before the reader: "And I did see, but not with my eyes. Through something else, another sensory organ altogether, one vestigial and primordial."
In my opinion, one common link to stories of "The Old Ones": "...It's been tried before. Dozens, even hundreds of times. Throughout history. Stupid, foolish men such as yourself who seek to control things they do not understand."
Another incredible story by an author on my "must-read" list.
Highly recommended!
HE WHO WALKS IN SHADOW is the sequel to Brett Talley's amazing Lovecraftian novel THAT WHICH SHOULD NOT BE. This is the story of Dr. Carter Weston after those events, as he continues the fight to contain "The Old Ones" and guard the barrier keeping them from rising again and obliterating humanity. With him in this journey is his daughter, Rachael Jones, and companion, Henry Armitage. Through the tales told within their individual journals and other documents, we are shown the current situation, and several key scenes from Weston's past adventures. In this novel, the focus is on Nyarlanthotep--a guardian set upon awakening "The Old Ones" and freeing them from their slumber.
From the very beginning of this novel, the Lovecraftian tone is set. "As surely as one age ends, another must begin--an ever turning back to that which came before. To that which should not be. For in all truth is this--that is not dead which can eternal lie."
"And the darkness does not forget."
I felt that the information being presented in the form of the journals gave significant leverage to the characterization of each of our key players, as we were able to see them as "honestly" as they saw themselves and the events around them. This was a style that kept up a steady pace, and removed any confusion as to what year/event we were "witnessing", as the date was stated in each entry.
Brett Talley does Lovecraftian style with a flair entirely in sync with his subject matter. His use of language adds tremendously to the scenes he sets before the reader: "And I did see, but not with my eyes. Through something else, another sensory organ altogether, one vestigial and primordial."
In my opinion, one common link to stories of "The Old Ones": "...It's been tried before. Dozens, even hundreds of times. Throughout history. Stupid, foolish men such as yourself who seek to control things they do not understand."
Another incredible story by an author on my "must-read" list.
Highly recommended!
May 22, 2015
Let's start with a statement few fans of horror literature - and especially those with a thing for Lovecraft - would deny: That Which Should Not Be stands as one of the finest Lovecraftian pastiches to have ever been written. So, it's also fair to say, that expectations for Brett J. Talley's sequel to that novel, He Who Walks in Shadow, are fairly high.
And, I'm here to say, Talley meets those expectations. In some cases, he could even be argued to have exceeded them.
Beginning with a desperate search to find the missing Carter Weston, long presumed dead by the authorities, and ending on a deserted Scottish Isle, Talley weaves a complex array of first-person journal entries, memoirs, diaries, and letters to loved-ones (along with the occasional passage from a text book as well as newspaper articles) to draw the reader into the thick of the action. Though this does occasionally make for some repetition of information, it serves the far more valuable end of bringing alive his array of major protagonists. In true Talley style, it also allows for the narrative to deviate off into events that occurred years before, so that other mini-stories related to the main events can also be told. In this way, the spirit of That Which Should Not Be is preserved, whilst allowing for He Who Walks in Shadow to be its very own beast.
Talley's prose is vivid and fluid, and lovingly re-creates scenes from the early parts of the twentieth century. Yet unlike many of Lovecraft's works, his styles remains eminently accessible. Talley also does not shy away from describing the horrors his characters find on their journey across much of Europe (and beyond), and at one point he pokes a little fun at the master when one of the characters acknowledges that another contemporary writer had the "inability to describe properly the things he has seen". Heh.
If it's not already clear, let me blunt: Fans of Talley and That Which Should Not Be should suffer no delay in getting their hands and/or swiping finger tips on He Who Walks in Shadow. Not only will they be treating themselves to one of the finest horror releases this year, but they will also hopefully ensure Talley opts to return to this universe and the things that lie waiting in the dark between the stars.
4 Meaningful Sacrifices for He Who Walks in Shadow.
The preceding was based on an eARC of the novel provided by the author in exchange for an honest review - which you have just read.
And, I'm here to say, Talley meets those expectations. In some cases, he could even be argued to have exceeded them.
Beginning with a desperate search to find the missing Carter Weston, long presumed dead by the authorities, and ending on a deserted Scottish Isle, Talley weaves a complex array of first-person journal entries, memoirs, diaries, and letters to loved-ones (along with the occasional passage from a text book as well as newspaper articles) to draw the reader into the thick of the action. Though this does occasionally make for some repetition of information, it serves the far more valuable end of bringing alive his array of major protagonists. In true Talley style, it also allows for the narrative to deviate off into events that occurred years before, so that other mini-stories related to the main events can also be told. In this way, the spirit of That Which Should Not Be is preserved, whilst allowing for He Who Walks in Shadow to be its very own beast.
Talley's prose is vivid and fluid, and lovingly re-creates scenes from the early parts of the twentieth century. Yet unlike many of Lovecraft's works, his styles remains eminently accessible. Talley also does not shy away from describing the horrors his characters find on their journey across much of Europe (and beyond), and at one point he pokes a little fun at the master when one of the characters acknowledges that another contemporary writer had the "inability to describe properly the things he has seen". Heh.
If it's not already clear, let me blunt: Fans of Talley and That Which Should Not Be should suffer no delay in getting their hands and/or swiping finger tips on He Who Walks in Shadow. Not only will they be treating themselves to one of the finest horror releases this year, but they will also hopefully ensure Talley opts to return to this universe and the things that lie waiting in the dark between the stars.
4 Meaningful Sacrifices for He Who Walks in Shadow.
The preceding was based on an eARC of the novel provided by the author in exchange for an honest review - which you have just read.
April 23, 2015
When I bought my Kindle two years ago, it was specifically to read a couple of books that I was having a hard time getting my hands on. One of them, was Talley's "That Which Should Not Be".
At the time I was not particularly a fan of the Lovecraft mythos. But, the Goodreads reviews by a couple of readers whose opinions I respect were off the charts. So, I bought the Kindle...and the book. Amazon, you're welcome.
"That Which Should Not Be" converted me and turned me into a fan of the mythos, in pastiche, at least, if not in terms of the original texts.
When given the opportunity to read an advance copy of Talley's Lovecraftian "He Who Walks in Shadow", of course, I jumped! And I was not disappointed.
The harbinger of the end of times walks the earth. It is up to the few that see and understand the signs to act to prevent what is prophesied in archaic texts that predate known religions.
"He Who Walks in Shadow" is a chronicle of the decades long battle between Carter Weston and the forces that would bring The Old Ones back through the rift. It is a battle that is not without its costs and personal sacrifices.
4 1/2 STARS
At the time I was not particularly a fan of the Lovecraft mythos. But, the Goodreads reviews by a couple of readers whose opinions I respect were off the charts. So, I bought the Kindle...and the book. Amazon, you're welcome.
"That Which Should Not Be" converted me and turned me into a fan of the mythos, in pastiche, at least, if not in terms of the original texts.
When given the opportunity to read an advance copy of Talley's Lovecraftian "He Who Walks in Shadow", of course, I jumped! And I was not disappointed.
The harbinger of the end of times walks the earth. It is up to the few that see and understand the signs to act to prevent what is prophesied in archaic texts that predate known religions.
"He Who Walks in Shadow" is a chronicle of the decades long battle between Carter Weston and the forces that would bring The Old Ones back through the rift. It is a battle that is not without its costs and personal sacrifices.
4 1/2 STARS
April 25, 2015
This epistolary novel, collecting a series of journal entries, chronicles a suspenseful race against time and the Old Ones, is so much more than just another Mythos rehash/re-imagining. Infusing his tale with both real and weird history (The Russian Revolution/The Tunguska Event), brilliant characters and a real sense of dread, Talley has done something incredible.....he's not only given life to the Mythos....under his guidance, it is evolving.
Highest possible recommendation.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Highest possible recommendation.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2015
Told in varying perspectives through journals and diaries, HWWIS is an excellent follow up to “That Which Should Not Be.” This is how cosmic horror thrillers should be done.
It’s the end of the world as we know it, unless Henry and Rachel can solve the mystery of Rachel’s fathers’ disappearance and find a way to fight off the impending unimaginable chaos that sits on the horizon. An epic quest across land and sea, to stop Nyarlathoep the harbinger from releasing the Old Ones and plunging the universe back into the complete darkness from whence it came.
Solid 4.5 Stars! Highly Recommended!
It’s the end of the world as we know it, unless Henry and Rachel can solve the mystery of Rachel’s fathers’ disappearance and find a way to fight off the impending unimaginable chaos that sits on the horizon. An epic quest across land and sea, to stop Nyarlathoep the harbinger from releasing the Old Ones and plunging the universe back into the complete darkness from whence it came.
Solid 4.5 Stars! Highly Recommended!
April 25, 2015
This was a unique blend of Lovecraftian weirdness and world religions taking place on a more or less global scale. The mystery element was heavy; I felt like I was chasing Sherlock Holmes through a Dungeons & Dragons module - I mean that in a good way. This is a sequel to That Which Should Not Be so I would recommend reading that first although it's probably not absolutely necessary. Some familiarity with Lovecraft is also a bonus but that should go without saying.
Good stuff. Recommended.
Good stuff. Recommended.
January 11, 2016
He Who Walks In Shadow is the sequel to Brett J. Talley's standout debut That Which Should Not Be. We live in an age when Lovecraftian themes have been covered aplenty, and by a multitude of different authors using all manner of styles. I can honestly say that Mr. Talley's epistolary take on the Mythos is perhaps the most enjoyable out there.
It is 1933, and Carter Weston, his daughter Rachel, and their age old friend Henry Armitage, are charged with trying to prevent the return of the Outer Gods. They are forced into a frantic race across borders as they struggle to outpace Dr. Zahn, and his militia of Nazi followers, who seek to open the portal through which the Old Gods can return - whilst also seeking to maintain a level of control over these Lords of Always.
Along the way, Carter and his team receive support from a number of others - particularly the Frenchman Guillaume, and his companion Margot, a German woman who despises the National Socialists - as they seek to recover the mystic artifacts that might allow them to achieve their goal, and hence keep closed the portal necessary for the Outer Gods return.
It is unclear as to whether they have either the skills or means by which to complete this task, particularly as it soon becomes apparent that Nyarlathotep, the Harbinger of Azathoth, may already be on Earth.
Whilst sticking to the basics, insofar as the Mythos relating to the Old Ones is concerned, Brett Talley actually succeeds in embellishing the Lovecraft universe. His inclusion of real world events and situations - the rise of National Socialism, The Russian Revolution, The Tunguska Event - all serve to breathe additional life into the world of Lovecraft's pantheon.
Definitely a recommended read for anyone who has ever enjoyed any aspect of the Cthulhu Mythos.
It is 1933, and Carter Weston, his daughter Rachel, and their age old friend Henry Armitage, are charged with trying to prevent the return of the Outer Gods. They are forced into a frantic race across borders as they struggle to outpace Dr. Zahn, and his militia of Nazi followers, who seek to open the portal through which the Old Gods can return - whilst also seeking to maintain a level of control over these Lords of Always.
Along the way, Carter and his team receive support from a number of others - particularly the Frenchman Guillaume, and his companion Margot, a German woman who despises the National Socialists - as they seek to recover the mystic artifacts that might allow them to achieve their goal, and hence keep closed the portal necessary for the Outer Gods return.
It is unclear as to whether they have either the skills or means by which to complete this task, particularly as it soon becomes apparent that Nyarlathotep, the Harbinger of Azathoth, may already be on Earth.
Whilst sticking to the basics, insofar as the Mythos relating to the Old Ones is concerned, Brett Talley actually succeeds in embellishing the Lovecraft universe. His inclusion of real world events and situations - the rise of National Socialism, The Russian Revolution, The Tunguska Event - all serve to breathe additional life into the world of Lovecraft's pantheon.
Definitely a recommended read for anyone who has ever enjoyed any aspect of the Cthulhu Mythos.
April 6, 2016
Review copy
He Who Walks In Shadow is a sequel, of sorts, to That Which Should Not Be. Although this book works as a stand-alone novel, I world recommend reading the first book before reading this newer volume in order to get the complete effect.
This time the story is told through journals, correspondence, news articles, and such. With a story woven together from so many disparate sources it would seem the result would be disjointed or at least confusing, but Talley manages to pull it all together in a riveting tale that blends Lovecraftian horror with the sensibilities of films like Indiana Jones, National Treasure, and The Da Vinci Code.
Brett J. Talley is an excellent writer who can really paint a scene with just a few words. "Forward we pressed, as bullets passed and men died and the ground grew sodden with the tramp of a thousand feet and the gentle rain of blood." And then there's a dream sequence involving a high-stakes game of chess that was just brilliant.
At it's core He Who Walks In Shadow is a story of supreme sacrifice which I found to be completely entertaining.
Published by JournalStone, He Who Walks In Shadow is available in hardback, paperback, and e-book formats. By the way, kudos to Becca Klein for a stunning cover.
Definitely recommended.
Brett Talley received a philosophy and history degree from the University of Alabama before moving to witch-haunted Massachusetts to attend Harvard Law School. Brett loves every kind of fiction—from horror to literary to historical to sci-fi—as long as there are fantastic characters with a compelling purpose. Brett writes when he can, though he spends most of his time working as a lawyer so that he can put food on the table. That is, until the air grows cool and crisp and fall descends. For then it is football time and Brett lives and dies with the Alabama Crimson Tide.
He Who Walks In Shadow is a sequel, of sorts, to That Which Should Not Be. Although this book works as a stand-alone novel, I world recommend reading the first book before reading this newer volume in order to get the complete effect.
This time the story is told through journals, correspondence, news articles, and such. With a story woven together from so many disparate sources it would seem the result would be disjointed or at least confusing, but Talley manages to pull it all together in a riveting tale that blends Lovecraftian horror with the sensibilities of films like Indiana Jones, National Treasure, and The Da Vinci Code.
Brett J. Talley is an excellent writer who can really paint a scene with just a few words. "Forward we pressed, as bullets passed and men died and the ground grew sodden with the tramp of a thousand feet and the gentle rain of blood." And then there's a dream sequence involving a high-stakes game of chess that was just brilliant.
At it's core He Who Walks In Shadow is a story of supreme sacrifice which I found to be completely entertaining.
Published by JournalStone, He Who Walks In Shadow is available in hardback, paperback, and e-book formats. By the way, kudos to Becca Klein for a stunning cover.
Definitely recommended.
Brett Talley received a philosophy and history degree from the University of Alabama before moving to witch-haunted Massachusetts to attend Harvard Law School. Brett loves every kind of fiction—from horror to literary to historical to sci-fi—as long as there are fantastic characters with a compelling purpose. Brett writes when he can, though he spends most of his time working as a lawyer so that he can put food on the table. That is, until the air grows cool and crisp and fall descends. For then it is football time and Brett lives and dies with the Alabama Crimson Tide.
April 15, 2015
I have to admit that I was a little worried when I was asked to read this novel. Lovecraftian works rarely catch my fancy. I tend to find them a little ‘dry’. To my surprise I was swept away by this book, and especially by the writing. The story is intricately woven together, supported by a cast of strong and believable characters. The diversity in the personalities was great, and really added to the flavor of the whole book.
The author truly has a way with words, and some of the descriptions left me breathless.
I would definitely recommend this for anyone who enjoys a clever story.
The author truly has a way with words, and some of the descriptions left me breathless.
I would definitely recommend this for anyone who enjoys a clever story.
December 21, 2015
I read this not knowing it was actually a sequel to another book and I wasn't at all lost. I've never read anything about mythos but this book definitely caught my attention and I want to seek out more like it. It had a nice multiple perspective diary type of writing to it that not only made it easy to read but more meaningful. I absolutely loved the bits of historical references mixed with the theories within the book, I thought it was a very creative and fascinating take and opens up your imagination to think of all the possibilities that could have been but that no one will ever know. I would most definitely recommend this captivating book to everyone I know!
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway.
I won this book in a goodreads giveaway.
May 30, 2015
Great!
I haven't found another writer who makes me read until I get a migraine. I just can't stop. If you are looking for something really different and something you will get completely wrapped up in, this is it.
I haven't found another writer who makes me read until I get a migraine. I just can't stop. If you are looking for something really different and something you will get completely wrapped up in, this is it.
March 27, 2016
Brett Talley’s Lovecraftian influences are hard at work here – yet he still manages to create a thoroughly original, exciting and suspenseful story. The evil book, Incendium Maleficarum – is missing and the search is on to find it. The year is 1933. Dr. Carter Weston is presumed dead. His daughter, Rachel Jones along with Henry Armitage, are on a quest to find what has happened to her father and to finish what he started. But this is more than a mere search for a weighty tome with black magic powers, this is a full blown adventure told in a series of diary entries, newspaper articles and journals and spanning the forests of Tunguska, the ancient catacombs of Paris, the Scottish Hebrides and the English countryside. The horrors of the trenches of the First World War are also brought vividly alive.
This is a race against time to prevent the end of life as we know it. The pace, plot and characterizations are drawn with clever precision and the tone of the novel is in perfect harmony with the content.
An ancient devil, as old as time itself, is their adversary. Nyarlathotep will be familiar to readers of Lovecraft and there are other similar references - Ctulhu of course, Azathoth – but this is no mere attempt to emulate that particular master of horror fantasy. Brett Talley is far too creative an author for that. This is most definitely his story. I haven’t read the first in this series – That Which Should Not Be – nor did I feel I needed to in order to enjoy this novel. Obviously having enjoyed this so much, I shall now rectify my omission!
I also want to commend the author on the extent and quality of his research. It has enabled him to blend factual history with fantasy so that the settings become real and serve as the perfect backdrop for this fascinating story.
This is a race against time to prevent the end of life as we know it. The pace, plot and characterizations are drawn with clever precision and the tone of the novel is in perfect harmony with the content.
An ancient devil, as old as time itself, is their adversary. Nyarlathotep will be familiar to readers of Lovecraft and there are other similar references - Ctulhu of course, Azathoth – but this is no mere attempt to emulate that particular master of horror fantasy. Brett Talley is far too creative an author for that. This is most definitely his story. I haven’t read the first in this series – That Which Should Not Be – nor did I feel I needed to in order to enjoy this novel. Obviously having enjoyed this so much, I shall now rectify my omission!
I also want to commend the author on the extent and quality of his research. It has enabled him to blend factual history with fantasy so that the settings become real and serve as the perfect backdrop for this fascinating story.
June 8, 2015
Disclaimer, disclaimer, disclaimer... I received He Who Walks in Shadow as a first reads winner.
I really liked this book (hence 4 stars). It is action, adventure, horror, mystery, a little romance, and a few other adjectives that escape me at the moment.(creepy, eerie, historical, paranormal, demonic)
It was even educational; I learned what omphaloskepsis means. (If you already know my hat's off to you).
He Who Walks in Shadow hooked me from the get go. I often caught myself reading as fast as I could as though the story might move on with out me. I would have to tell myself to calm down, that the book wasn't going anywhere without me. It kept building in excitement and anticipation and did not fail in achieving a satisfying climax. While caught up in one of these manic reading episodes, I was reading before bed as I often do, I was so engrossed that I kept reading until I could literally not keep my eyes open. I had about 30 pages left and was so disappointed that I couldn't stay awake to finish!
This story, presented as the journals of several of the characters, blended very well. I have read other books where this style comes across choppy and somewhat difficult to follow. Not so here.
For me this book was a true page turner from the beginning. I don't often say this even for books i really like. I found myself looking forward to the time I could get back to the book.
High recommendations. If you like any of the genres this story crosses, He Who Walks in Shadow is worth the time you'll spend with it.
Mike Siedschlag
I really liked this book (hence 4 stars). It is action, adventure, horror, mystery, a little romance, and a few other adjectives that escape me at the moment.(creepy, eerie, historical, paranormal, demonic)
It was even educational; I learned what omphaloskepsis means. (If you already know my hat's off to you).
He Who Walks in Shadow hooked me from the get go. I often caught myself reading as fast as I could as though the story might move on with out me. I would have to tell myself to calm down, that the book wasn't going anywhere without me. It kept building in excitement and anticipation and did not fail in achieving a satisfying climax. While caught up in one of these manic reading episodes, I was reading before bed as I often do, I was so engrossed that I kept reading until I could literally not keep my eyes open. I had about 30 pages left and was so disappointed that I couldn't stay awake to finish!
This story, presented as the journals of several of the characters, blended very well. I have read other books where this style comes across choppy and somewhat difficult to follow. Not so here.
For me this book was a true page turner from the beginning. I don't often say this even for books i really like. I found myself looking forward to the time I could get back to the book.
High recommendations. If you like any of the genres this story crosses, He Who Walks in Shadow is worth the time you'll spend with it.
Mike Siedschlag
May 22, 2015
Brett Talley’s first novel, That Which Should Not Be, is one of the best Lovecraftian novels I’ve ever read. His new novel, He Who Walks in Shadow, is a worthy sequel, continuing the story and also continuing the suspense and horror. The first novel consisted of four stories contained within a wraparound narrative (similar in structure to the classic 1945 movie Dead of Night), but the second is an epistolary novel telling a single story. It’s a story of an ancient book looking for its keeper, academics who are forced into suspenseful adventures, and ancient gods being awakened from their slumbers. The novel is thoroughly Lovecraftian, but written in a very accessible style. Some of the moments of horror are truly original and brilliant. Talley’s novels also provide glimmers of hope and grace that shine through the horror at times. If you like stories set in the Cthulhu Mythos, or well-written horror literature in general, you'll enjoy this novel. I’m hoping Talley is already working on a sequel to He Who Walks in Shadow.
November 29, 2017
I’m finding it hard to understand the positive reviews for this; personally I found this book quite poor and struggled to get into it. The plot included twists that were pointless, a forced romance subplot with a predictable conclusion, questionable characterisation and uneven pacing. There are some interesting parts but as with the previous book too much is far too familiar. I know that this is an intentional pastiche of Lovecraft’s stories and style but it doesn’t add to what has already been done before, and it ultimately left me quite bored.
June 16, 2015
“He Who Walks in Shadow” is the sequel to “That Which Should Not Be”. It continues the story of Carter Weston and his quest to stop the Great Old Ones from entering this universe.
The story is told in the form of letters, diary entries, memoirs and newspaper articles. It is conveyed through the points of view of the three main characters; Charles Weston, his daughter Rachel and his closest friend and ally, Henry Armitage. This allows us to experience the story through various perspectives and hear the inner thoughts of each character.
The setting takes place in two time periods; 1919 and 1933. The 1919 story follows Carter, Henry and Rachel’s husband, William, on their quest to find the oculus, an artifact of great power. The main story, which is set in 1933, has Henry and Rachel setting off to find the missing and presumed dead Weston. This begins an epic journey that takes our friends to Germany, the catacombs of France, and the Scottish Isles.
Talley’s style mirrors Lovecraft’s very well. “There is a legend from the long ago, passed down through the ages on whispered words and shuddered sayings, written of in arcane and forbidden tomes, locked away in dusty halls of abandoned libraries”. This is but one example of the style of the novel and it is a nice nod to one of the masters of the horror genre.
Another thing that really impressed me about “He Who Walks in Shadow” is Talley’s talent for description. Scenes jump off the pages, are incredibly vivid and easy to visualize. I love his description of the catacombs “Again Nassim went first crawling on his hands and knees over the bones, femurs rattling of the pile like stones as we went. More than once my hand sank to the elbow into the crumbling remains. Forward we slithered, my back scraping against the roof of the tunnel. I was as a man buried alive , a hundred feet below the streets, living what would have been most men’s nightmares.” Another section filled with brilliant description is when Weston, Inspector Dubois and his men are entering the lost city of La Salle. “The night was growing thick, and it was only then that I noticed something peculiar. We were in the midst of a great swamp, surrounded by wilderness for a hundred miles, maybe. And yet I heard nothing. Not a bird, not an animal in the brush, not even the insects that normally teem about. No mosquitos feasted upon us. No ancient-eyed owls watched our approach. We were completely alone. It was as if they had foreseen some coming doom that we could only imagine, the maw of which we were now walking directly into.” These descriptions make the novel come alive.
Nyarlathotep is a great villain. The one who comes before is to usher in the Old Ones and end the world as we know it. He is cruel and manipulative, using people as pawns to further his ends. He seems almost undefeatable, but Carter and crew are determined to stop him no matter what the cost.
This is a novel about hard choices, sacrifice and loss. The reader feels for Weston and the situations in which he finds himself. He knows what he has to do. Even knowing that the sacrifices are for the greater good, this does not make his actions any easier.
I loved this novel. My one complaint would be the similarities between the journal entries for Weston and Armitage. Their voices are not unique and it is easy to confuse the two. Unlike Rachel’s entries, which feel younger and less experienced, the men’s entries are too similar in style. Except for this one detail, it is an almost perfect novel. A great story that is fast-paced, has awesome characters, an evil villain, that spans time periods and ventures to several continents makes this a five star read.
The story is told in the form of letters, diary entries, memoirs and newspaper articles. It is conveyed through the points of view of the three main characters; Charles Weston, his daughter Rachel and his closest friend and ally, Henry Armitage. This allows us to experience the story through various perspectives and hear the inner thoughts of each character.
The setting takes place in two time periods; 1919 and 1933. The 1919 story follows Carter, Henry and Rachel’s husband, William, on their quest to find the oculus, an artifact of great power. The main story, which is set in 1933, has Henry and Rachel setting off to find the missing and presumed dead Weston. This begins an epic journey that takes our friends to Germany, the catacombs of France, and the Scottish Isles.
Talley’s style mirrors Lovecraft’s very well. “There is a legend from the long ago, passed down through the ages on whispered words and shuddered sayings, written of in arcane and forbidden tomes, locked away in dusty halls of abandoned libraries”. This is but one example of the style of the novel and it is a nice nod to one of the masters of the horror genre.
Another thing that really impressed me about “He Who Walks in Shadow” is Talley’s talent for description. Scenes jump off the pages, are incredibly vivid and easy to visualize. I love his description of the catacombs “Again Nassim went first crawling on his hands and knees over the bones, femurs rattling of the pile like stones as we went. More than once my hand sank to the elbow into the crumbling remains. Forward we slithered, my back scraping against the roof of the tunnel. I was as a man buried alive , a hundred feet below the streets, living what would have been most men’s nightmares.” Another section filled with brilliant description is when Weston, Inspector Dubois and his men are entering the lost city of La Salle. “The night was growing thick, and it was only then that I noticed something peculiar. We were in the midst of a great swamp, surrounded by wilderness for a hundred miles, maybe. And yet I heard nothing. Not a bird, not an animal in the brush, not even the insects that normally teem about. No mosquitos feasted upon us. No ancient-eyed owls watched our approach. We were completely alone. It was as if they had foreseen some coming doom that we could only imagine, the maw of which we were now walking directly into.” These descriptions make the novel come alive.
Nyarlathotep is a great villain. The one who comes before is to usher in the Old Ones and end the world as we know it. He is cruel and manipulative, using people as pawns to further his ends. He seems almost undefeatable, but Carter and crew are determined to stop him no matter what the cost.
This is a novel about hard choices, sacrifice and loss. The reader feels for Weston and the situations in which he finds himself. He knows what he has to do. Even knowing that the sacrifices are for the greater good, this does not make his actions any easier.
I loved this novel. My one complaint would be the similarities between the journal entries for Weston and Armitage. Their voices are not unique and it is easy to confuse the two. Unlike Rachel’s entries, which feel younger and less experienced, the men’s entries are too similar in style. Except for this one detail, it is an almost perfect novel. A great story that is fast-paced, has awesome characters, an evil villain, that spans time periods and ventures to several continents makes this a five star read.
May 29, 2015
In the interest of transparency, I received an ebook copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
He Who Walks in Shadow is a continuation of the in-HPL-mythos fiction begun by Brett Talley in the wonderful That Which Should Not Be, though it stands completely on its own. The hero of that novel - Carter Weston - has gone missing, and is presumed to be dead by most. His friend and colleague Dr Henry Armitage still has faith that his old ally is still alive and has plans to find him. Henry knows that he'll need help in the quest, from someone familiar with the strange doings Miskatonic alumnae find themselves mixed in, and he recruits Carter's adult daughter Rachel to join him. Thus begins a globe-trotting adventure that Lovecraft would be proud to endorse.
The previous novel in the series, as mentioned above, was delivered in the form of multiple short stories - anthology style - with a nice fiction wrapper of Weston's trip to a nearby town under the guise of gathering local folklore. This novel, on the other hand, is deftly handled by journal entries by the various characters, historical books, etc. Even if you had skipped the first book, the characters are well-developed and the plotting well-done. For Lovecraft fans, the interweaving of existing Mythos (Henry Armitage, Erich Zann, Nyarlathotep, Miskatonice, etc) is seamless and it really feels like Talley took great effort to mold the story to logically build upon the previous Mythos authors' work, giving sound reasons for chronology, relationships, and theology beyond his own work.
I really enjoyed spending more time with Talley's characters. The eras spanned in the story felt true and realistic. The prose delivery via journal, reports, news clippings, etc. is nothing new, but it fit the overall feel of the book, and seemed a perfect fit. If I had any issue at all, some of the travels in the book seemed a little forced, but not heavy-handed, and again it's not a big quibble to have given the reach of the story and the span of what Talley's trying to bridge (Robert Chamber's King in Yellow, Lovecraft's Mythos, various theologies).
I recommend the book. Existing fans of the Mythos will find a comfort in the familiarity of the 'verse, and it's open enough that fresh fans of horror and adventure tales will have plenty to enjoy throughout as well.
He Who Walks in Shadow is a continuation of the in-HPL-mythos fiction begun by Brett Talley in the wonderful That Which Should Not Be, though it stands completely on its own. The hero of that novel - Carter Weston - has gone missing, and is presumed to be dead by most. His friend and colleague Dr Henry Armitage still has faith that his old ally is still alive and has plans to find him. Henry knows that he'll need help in the quest, from someone familiar with the strange doings Miskatonic alumnae find themselves mixed in, and he recruits Carter's adult daughter Rachel to join him. Thus begins a globe-trotting adventure that Lovecraft would be proud to endorse.
The previous novel in the series, as mentioned above, was delivered in the form of multiple short stories - anthology style - with a nice fiction wrapper of Weston's trip to a nearby town under the guise of gathering local folklore. This novel, on the other hand, is deftly handled by journal entries by the various characters, historical books, etc. Even if you had skipped the first book, the characters are well-developed and the plotting well-done. For Lovecraft fans, the interweaving of existing Mythos (Henry Armitage, Erich Zann, Nyarlathotep, Miskatonice, etc) is seamless and it really feels like Talley took great effort to mold the story to logically build upon the previous Mythos authors' work, giving sound reasons for chronology, relationships, and theology beyond his own work.
I really enjoyed spending more time with Talley's characters. The eras spanned in the story felt true and realistic. The prose delivery via journal, reports, news clippings, etc. is nothing new, but it fit the overall feel of the book, and seemed a perfect fit. If I had any issue at all, some of the travels in the book seemed a little forced, but not heavy-handed, and again it's not a big quibble to have given the reach of the story and the span of what Talley's trying to bridge (Robert Chamber's King in Yellow, Lovecraft's Mythos, various theologies).
I recommend the book. Existing fans of the Mythos will find a comfort in the familiarity of the 'verse, and it's open enough that fresh fans of horror and adventure tales will have plenty to enjoy throughout as well.
May 9, 2016
His last book: "That Which Should Not Be" was the perfect Cthulhu book. It had everything. 5 great stories. Lots of Cthulhu lore, Miskatonic was here, R'lyeh arose and even Cthulhu himself was resurrected!! What's more, it ended perfectly, we humans can never defeat the gods, we can only delay them.
So with that premise, how can the Brett Talley even attempt to write a sequel, well gotta give him lots of credits for trying to capture lightning twice; and as you read “That Which Should Not Be” you’ll understand how much he loves the Lovecraft Lore, how much work and passion he put on this book, and yup, he did capture lightning twice. What’s more, I now know lots more about the Cthulhu mythos and you’ll know too once you read this.
You’ll love how he describes things, for example: “beyond the veil was chaos. There were stars, yes, but unlike any I had ever seen before. They shone down darkness, not light, on worlds that were as black as if formed from coal and pitch. Things moved there, winged and tentacle things, mad amalgamations of form undreamt of even in the wildest fancies of the Pharaohs.” It’s poetry, and you can read it again and again and again, we are very lucky to be able to read a book as good as this one.
As for the story, what did Talley left in the first book? Well, this one started with one demigod: Nyarlathoptep (not a demigod perse), and his plan to resurrect Azatoth, the one who created all things, even Cthulhu himself.
Whereas in the first book we had 5 stories, here we have only one and it’s like Indiana Jones met Cthulhu, our stories will travel to many places, even to the void itself and that was the best part for me, the one that made me give this review 5 stars.
The writing as I said is superb as usual. I don’t know if this will end in a trilogy, I don’t know how but I know that if there is ever a next part I’ll read it, that’s for sure. Now to reread some parts. If you are a fan of the Mythos or Lovecraft, be sure to give this one a try, you’ll be very pleased!
So with that premise, how can the Brett Talley even attempt to write a sequel, well gotta give him lots of credits for trying to capture lightning twice; and as you read “That Which Should Not Be” you’ll understand how much he loves the Lovecraft Lore, how much work and passion he put on this book, and yup, he did capture lightning twice. What’s more, I now know lots more about the Cthulhu mythos and you’ll know too once you read this.
You’ll love how he describes things, for example: “beyond the veil was chaos. There were stars, yes, but unlike any I had ever seen before. They shone down darkness, not light, on worlds that were as black as if formed from coal and pitch. Things moved there, winged and tentacle things, mad amalgamations of form undreamt of even in the wildest fancies of the Pharaohs.” It’s poetry, and you can read it again and again and again, we are very lucky to be able to read a book as good as this one.
As for the story, what did Talley left in the first book? Well, this one started with one demigod: Nyarlathoptep (not a demigod perse), and his plan to resurrect Azatoth, the one who created all things, even Cthulhu himself.
Whereas in the first book we had 5 stories, here we have only one and it’s like Indiana Jones met Cthulhu, our stories will travel to many places, even to the void itself and that was the best part for me, the one that made me give this review 5 stars.
The writing as I said is superb as usual. I don’t know if this will end in a trilogy, I don’t know how but I know that if there is ever a next part I’ll read it, that’s for sure. Now to reread some parts. If you are a fan of the Mythos or Lovecraft, be sure to give this one a try, you’ll be very pleased!
May 27, 2015
When I started reading this book, I was unaware that it was a sequel to another novel of the author, 'That Which Should Not Be'. However, I did not have the feeling that I missed anything, as there seemed to be enough flashbacks to enlighten me of the necessary details. Also, I have almost no knowledge of the work of Lovecraft and his Cthulhu myth, so I can't comment on the quality of possible relations this book may have.
The book is told entirely in diary entries or newspaper articles, which, given the time the story takes place in, gives it a slow, sometimes even unwieldy quality. Also, while the voice of Rachel Jones was clearly recognizable as younger, fresher, I found little difference between the telling of Carter Weston and Henry Armitage, where I would have wished for a more unique voice for each of them.
The plot was suspenseful and truly original, at least for me with my aforementioned limited knowledge of Lovecraftian Horror, ancient gods and the ever looming downfall of mankind. However, to me reading felt like driving with the handbrake on due to the cumbersome albeit fitting writing style of the journal entries, making me anxious, even impatient to get on with the action.
I guess this book requires greater patience than I was able to exercise. At the end, I was left with mixed feelings, as I enjoyed the dark and intricate plot (4 stars) but had a tough time with the chosen narrative style (2 stars).
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
The book is told entirely in diary entries or newspaper articles, which, given the time the story takes place in, gives it a slow, sometimes even unwieldy quality. Also, while the voice of Rachel Jones was clearly recognizable as younger, fresher, I found little difference between the telling of Carter Weston and Henry Armitage, where I would have wished for a more unique voice for each of them.
The plot was suspenseful and truly original, at least for me with my aforementioned limited knowledge of Lovecraftian Horror, ancient gods and the ever looming downfall of mankind. However, to me reading felt like driving with the handbrake on due to the cumbersome albeit fitting writing style of the journal entries, making me anxious, even impatient to get on with the action.
I guess this book requires greater patience than I was able to exercise. At the end, I was left with mixed feelings, as I enjoyed the dark and intricate plot (4 stars) but had a tough time with the chosen narrative style (2 stars).
(I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review)
November 17, 2015
I received He Who Walks in Shadow as a first reads winner.
That was excellent. Even better than the first book. I think what I really liked about this one was the treasure hunt aspect, the chase against evil foes for the prize. There were still some flashbacks and alternate point of views that carried the feel of campfire storytelling forward from the last book but not the action is central to the main characters. I really enjoyed the "Raiders of the Lost Ark" references, I chuckled every time I came across one. And that ending. It was complete but it also opens up more questions. Highly recommend this book.
That was excellent. Even better than the first book. I think what I really liked about this one was the treasure hunt aspect, the chase against evil foes for the prize. There were still some flashbacks and alternate point of views that carried the feel of campfire storytelling forward from the last book but not the action is central to the main characters. I really enjoyed the "Raiders of the Lost Ark" references, I chuckled every time I came across one. And that ending. It was complete but it also opens up more questions. Highly recommend this book.
May 13, 2015
Excellent book! It did take me a short bit to understand exactly what was happening, switching from each character's point of view, and the various journal entries, etc. But soon I became so engrossed I didn't even have to think about it, and it actually gave a whole other layer to the story. I HIGHLY recommend this book, and can't wait for the third!!!
September 5, 2015
Brett J. Talley's follow-up to that Which Should Not Be is a tense epistolary novel blending the style and elder abominations of H.P. Lovecraft with the derring-do of Indiana Jones. Scary and thrilling, the book spans continents and years in a journey that explores the dark realms between worlds and epochs as well as the nature of human courage and sacrifice.
February 15, 2016
An excellent read that takes Lovecraft's mythos and makes it something new. Talley utilizes Lovecraft's icons and tropes well, weaving them together in an epic, cosmic struggle. A lot more like Dereleth's work in tone, which for me is just fine.
June 13, 2015
Once again Talley has written a thrilling Lovecraftian adventure that keeps the reader glued to the page.
May 1, 2020
« '' This is only a dream, '' I said, but I found no strength in the assertion. Nyarlathotep smiled, and the perfect, pearly white of his razor-blade-straight teeth only made him all the more uncanny.
'' Isn't everything? '' »
Brett J. Talley hooked me with That Which Should Not Be and he reeled me in with this wonderful sequel.
It follows the events of the first book as Carter's daughter and his best friend attempt to find the occult scholar who has disappeared and is presumed dead. The author effortlessly blends real life history, religious mythology, folk stories and Lovecraft's Old Ones to tell a believable story of insidious influences in our world. The story also uses multiple shifting perspectives as well as excerpts from in-universe newspapers, occult and religious doctrine, etc..., which keeps the narrative extremely dynamic.
Just as the first one, this book is a page-turner and the story takes some devious and clever twists and turns, yet it's essence is imbued with the cosmic dread that made Lovecraft's own work so timeless and terrifying. Add to this mix the inclusion of one of the most twisted creations of the mythos as the main antagonist and you have the recipe for what I believe to be a great and original entry in the world created by Lovecraft.
I saw on the author's page that he is currently working on another entry in this series. I can't wait for the stars to align and to be holding that book.
'' Isn't everything? '' »
Brett J. Talley hooked me with That Which Should Not Be and he reeled me in with this wonderful sequel.
It follows the events of the first book as Carter's daughter and his best friend attempt to find the occult scholar who has disappeared and is presumed dead. The author effortlessly blends real life history, religious mythology, folk stories and Lovecraft's Old Ones to tell a believable story of insidious influences in our world. The story also uses multiple shifting perspectives as well as excerpts from in-universe newspapers, occult and religious doctrine, etc..., which keeps the narrative extremely dynamic.
Just as the first one, this book is a page-turner and the story takes some devious and clever twists and turns, yet it's essence is imbued with the cosmic dread that made Lovecraft's own work so timeless and terrifying. Add to this mix the inclusion of one of the most twisted creations of the mythos as the main antagonist and you have the recipe for what I believe to be a great and original entry in the world created by Lovecraft.
I saw on the author's page that he is currently working on another entry in this series. I can't wait for the stars to align and to be holding that book.
October 1, 2025
4.6
-Banger
-Nyarlathotep as the villain was great and I liked that he was like around more
-I knew Guillaume was phony but I just thought he would be working with Zann, not actually be nyarlethotep
-Carter’s death was not surprising but badass, just like the end of the first book
-I do hope to get more books in this world cause i need more of the old gods
-The passages of the inspector in World War One was hands down the best and his passages in the crater genuinely freaked me out
-RIP to William, heroes get remembered but legends never die 🫡
-Banger
-Nyarlathotep as the villain was great and I liked that he was like around more
-I knew Guillaume was phony but I just thought he would be working with Zann, not actually be nyarlethotep
-Carter’s death was not surprising but badass, just like the end of the first book
-I do hope to get more books in this world cause i need more of the old gods
-The passages of the inspector in World War One was hands down the best and his passages in the crater genuinely freaked me out
-RIP to William, heroes get remembered but legends never die 🫡
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2021
Excellent Lovecraftian fiction, told via journal entries by the three main characters. I loved it!
June 29, 2016
***Won in a LibraryThing Early Reviewers giveaway***
A story that serves as a sequel but could easily be a standalone adventure. Carter Weston, Henry Armitage, Rachel Jones. Three characters that want to plug the hole that links our world and that of the Old Ones (the Lovecraftian ancient gods). Their fight is with Erich Zann who wants to use the power of opening the pathway to rule over the world. The harbinger, Nyarlathotep, serves as the ultimate antagonist as he wants the gates opened so he can walk the world once more.
This story spans 13 years in two distinct epochs. The first is a journey to Tunguska after the strange explosion of the early 1900s. The second is in 1933 where the characters go from Berlin, to Paris, to Normandy (Mont Saint-Michel) and onwards, North of the Scottish island of Skye.
An interesting way of writing, this books is a collection of journals, diaries, newspaper articles, manuscript passages etc that tell the whole story and add information that is relevant to help convey the events as they happened. We are therefore treated to incremental in depth looks of what happened in the past, which on the one hand takes the suspense out that the character has survived a particular encounter, but also takes away an omniscience and foreshadowing aspect that could have ruined the final reveal.
Although this novel is Lovecraftian and supposedly horror, it read much more like a historical thriller with a small religious aspect (good v evil, light v dark) and was altogether much better than anticipated.
A satisfying conclusion of events in this story, also sets the stage for potentially another book, which may or may not be along similar lines or could take off into something completely new. Time will tell. But this can be recommended as the sequel to Brett J. Talley's first effort or a fantastic read on its own.
A story that serves as a sequel but could easily be a standalone adventure. Carter Weston, Henry Armitage, Rachel Jones. Three characters that want to plug the hole that links our world and that of the Old Ones (the Lovecraftian ancient gods). Their fight is with Erich Zann who wants to use the power of opening the pathway to rule over the world. The harbinger, Nyarlathotep, serves as the ultimate antagonist as he wants the gates opened so he can walk the world once more.
This story spans 13 years in two distinct epochs. The first is a journey to Tunguska after the strange explosion of the early 1900s. The second is in 1933 where the characters go from Berlin, to Paris, to Normandy (Mont Saint-Michel) and onwards, North of the Scottish island of Skye.
An interesting way of writing, this books is a collection of journals, diaries, newspaper articles, manuscript passages etc that tell the whole story and add information that is relevant to help convey the events as they happened. We are therefore treated to incremental in depth looks of what happened in the past, which on the one hand takes the suspense out that the character has survived a particular encounter, but also takes away an omniscience and foreshadowing aspect that could have ruined the final reveal.
Although this novel is Lovecraftian and supposedly horror, it read much more like a historical thriller with a small religious aspect (good v evil, light v dark) and was altogether much better than anticipated.
A satisfying conclusion of events in this story, also sets the stage for potentially another book, which may or may not be along similar lines or could take off into something completely new. Time will tell. But this can be recommended as the sequel to Brett J. Talley's first effort or a fantastic read on its own.
November 18, 2015
Talley's follow up to his first novel That Which Should Not Be is another superior pastiche of Lovecraftian horror. It follows up on the story of Carter Weston and his attempts to prevent the Crawling Chaos, Nyarlathotep, from opening the way to bring the Old Ones back from their slumber - a slight side-effect of which will be the extinguishing of human life on Earth. The story takes place in the Interwar period and Talley does a nice job of tying the return of Ancient Evil to the rise of human evil in the form of both Russian and German totalitarianism. He also changes things up by eschewing the portmanteau approach of That Which Should Not Be for an epistolary style with the story laid out in the form of journal entries, newspaper articles and the like which is both a classic stylistic approach to the horror novel (See Dracula) and also works for the tale that he is telling here. Highly recommended for those who enjoy tales of cosmic horror.
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