What do you think?
Rate this book
Cathell #1
Into the Darkness
Note: This version is out of print.
Aeryn, a sell-sword still grieving her father. Theo, a young thief desperate to save her brother. Their worlds collide when Aeryn breaks the centuries-old curse on the Black Caverns and sets in motion a series of dark events.
Buried within the caverns is a fallen god, left seething in the darkness by the old gods for his crimes against the mortal world. The moment the curse is broken, the Harbinger stirs from his fitful slumber. As the Harbinger's twisted influence on the people and the world around them grows, Aeryn and Theo race to stop the Harbinger’s rise to power, but stopping him may mean the death of one or both of them.
Aeryn, a sell-sword still grieving her father. Theo, a young thief desperate to save her brother. Their worlds collide when Aeryn breaks the centuries-old curse on the Black Caverns and sets in motion a series of dark events.
Buried within the caverns is a fallen god, left seething in the darkness by the old gods for his crimes against the mortal world. The moment the curse is broken, the Harbinger stirs from his fitful slumber. As the Harbinger's twisted influence on the people and the world around them grows, Aeryn and Theo race to stop the Harbinger’s rise to power, but stopping him may mean the death of one or both of them.
- GenresFantasy
478 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2015
10 people are currently reading
544 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Rycroft
12 books191 followersA.M. Rycroft is the award-winning author of multiple dark fantasy series and horror short stories. She was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, so she naturally bleeds black and gold whenever she gets a paper cut. Her hobbies include binge watching hockey and football, ignoring her inbox as much as possible, and adding to her superhero bobblehead collection.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
September 7, 2015
Sell-sword Aeryn Ravane is determined to fulfill her late father’s dream and enter the cave of Tynan Selvantyr, a legendary adventurer who, upon his death long ago, not only sealed the cave but placed a curse on it. Unfortunately, she is not the only one seeking entry into the cave and, inside she meets Theo, a young thief as well as Tynan’s ghost. When the curse is triggered, the three are forced to flee the cave and find themselves hunted by those who want what Aeryn has found and they will stop at nothing to recover it.
Into the Darkness by author A M Rycroft is reminiscent of early sword & sorcery tales or perhaps more accurately, Dungeons & Dragons RPGs. We’ve got a sell-sword, a thief, a sorcerer, cleric, and ranger. There is also a vampire but she fills more the role of fighter than bloodsucker. However, Rycroft manages to flesh them out, making them more than just simple one-dimensional stock characters. There is also some impressive world-building and battle scenes. There were times when the story dragged but, fortunately, there is enough action leading to the final battle to keep the reader’s attention. Overall, a satisfying read closing off enough storylines so that the reader doesn’t feel frustrated while leaving it open to a sequel, one I look forward to reading.
3.5
Into the Darkness by author A M Rycroft is reminiscent of early sword & sorcery tales or perhaps more accurately, Dungeons & Dragons RPGs. We’ve got a sell-sword, a thief, a sorcerer, cleric, and ranger. There is also a vampire but she fills more the role of fighter than bloodsucker. However, Rycroft manages to flesh them out, making them more than just simple one-dimensional stock characters. There is also some impressive world-building and battle scenes. There were times when the story dragged but, fortunately, there is enough action leading to the final battle to keep the reader’s attention. Overall, a satisfying read closing off enough storylines so that the reader doesn’t feel frustrated while leaving it open to a sequel, one I look forward to reading.
3.5
May 8, 2015
The author does a fantastic job creating a world full of fantasy and adventure. The characters created in this story are refreshingly rich with relatable characteristics. You can't help but hang onto every word written, turning each page with eager anticipation, selfishly wanting more. It has been a while since I have encountered a book that has me on the edge of my seat, dying to know what will happen next. The way each scene is described with just the right amount of details, makes it easy to picture a world full of magik, barbaric sword fighting, hidden treasure, and above all else a great story.
What was once known as Night Vally and is now coined the Vally of Death because of the massacre that took place, Aeryn finds herself on the beginning of a quest that will forever change her life. A quest done in the name of her father and there respect for the brave adventurer Tynan. Like many before her, Aeryn has come to the Black Caverns seeking what lies within. But she doesn't only seek the treasure hidden inside, but the need to connect to the man behind the stories. While in the cavern, she encounters the ghost of Tynan and a young thief named Theo. Unbeknownst to Aeryn, she also frees an ancient evil God named Harbinger who creates havoc wherever he goes. Thus starting a great adventure that will lead to destruction, death, acceptance, trust, and much much more.
For the first time I truly feel inadequate trying to describe how amazing this book is! Like I mentioned earlier, the characters have so much depth. I absolutely loved this book! I found myself so caught up in the story that I began mimicking what the characters were doing- staying quiet, noting moving. I'm sure that sounds silly but it proves the authors ability to entrap the reader with the use of his words.
I loved Aeryn's character. She evolves so much throughout the book. She is strong but stoic. After she meets Tynan, you see how she goes from the little girl who idealizes her hero, to realizing heroes aren't perfect, to seeing him as a man and accepting his accomplishments as well as his failures.
Theo's character is complex and my opinion of her changed throughout the book. At first I thought she was somewhat of a brat and complained way to often. But as the story develops, you are able to see beyond the mask she wears. And you realize she is a younger version of Aeryn with more defiance and anger.
There are so many great characters in this book. The ending of the book left me thinking (Hoping!!) there will be a sequel. This book is not a fast read in the sense you can't skip over minor details and still get the big picture. Every word written in this book has a purpose. This book is full of heartache, adventure, freedom, and redemption. I was surprised that by the end of the book I found myself already attached to the characters. Usually for this to happen, it takes reading a couple of books into the series. I actually frowned when the book was over, wishing there was more.
Overall, a fantastic book. This book is the type of book that stays with you, lingering in your thoughts weeks after you finished reading.
What was once known as Night Vally and is now coined the Vally of Death because of the massacre that took place, Aeryn finds herself on the beginning of a quest that will forever change her life. A quest done in the name of her father and there respect for the brave adventurer Tynan. Like many before her, Aeryn has come to the Black Caverns seeking what lies within. But she doesn't only seek the treasure hidden inside, but the need to connect to the man behind the stories. While in the cavern, she encounters the ghost of Tynan and a young thief named Theo. Unbeknownst to Aeryn, she also frees an ancient evil God named Harbinger who creates havoc wherever he goes. Thus starting a great adventure that will lead to destruction, death, acceptance, trust, and much much more.
For the first time I truly feel inadequate trying to describe how amazing this book is! Like I mentioned earlier, the characters have so much depth. I absolutely loved this book! I found myself so caught up in the story that I began mimicking what the characters were doing- staying quiet, noting moving. I'm sure that sounds silly but it proves the authors ability to entrap the reader with the use of his words.
I loved Aeryn's character. She evolves so much throughout the book. She is strong but stoic. After she meets Tynan, you see how she goes from the little girl who idealizes her hero, to realizing heroes aren't perfect, to seeing him as a man and accepting his accomplishments as well as his failures.
Theo's character is complex and my opinion of her changed throughout the book. At first I thought she was somewhat of a brat and complained way to often. But as the story develops, you are able to see beyond the mask she wears. And you realize she is a younger version of Aeryn with more defiance and anger.
There are so many great characters in this book. The ending of the book left me thinking (Hoping!!) there will be a sequel. This book is not a fast read in the sense you can't skip over minor details and still get the big picture. Every word written in this book has a purpose. This book is full of heartache, adventure, freedom, and redemption. I was surprised that by the end of the book I found myself already attached to the characters. Usually for this to happen, it takes reading a couple of books into the series. I actually frowned when the book was over, wishing there was more.
Overall, a fantastic book. This book is the type of book that stays with you, lingering in your thoughts weeks after you finished reading.
April 12, 2017
I'm sorry, I tried. Got all the way to last leg of the journey before meeting The Big Bad for their showdown and started skimming.
I wasn't hooked or engaged, it was just killing time without anything better to do and when I had other stuff to do, I didn't pick it back up. I had to make myself go back but I can't do it anymore.
I found it bland and the writing uninspired, like a science report. Which is such a pity because I really liked Aeryn and Theo. Theo was the more engaging perspective throughout. Aeryn is a bit stiff, but won me over.
I think the foundations are there, but it's lacking spark. I hate to be so vague and unhelpful, but it's just a gut feeling. *shrug*
I wasn't hooked or engaged, it was just killing time without anything better to do and when I had other stuff to do, I didn't pick it back up. I had to make myself go back but I can't do it anymore.
I found it bland and the writing uninspired, like a science report. Which is such a pity because I really liked Aeryn and Theo. Theo was the more engaging perspective throughout. Aeryn is a bit stiff, but won me over.
I think the foundations are there, but it's lacking spark. I hate to be so vague and unhelpful, but it's just a gut feeling. *shrug*
August 24, 2018
I love strong female protagonists in literature! It’s no wonder, mom was a soldier, my sister is a war veteran, and my wife intimidates most men. Plus I had a HUGE crush on Xena. HUGE. Aeryn is my heroine now! She takes up her late father’s sword, Cursebreaker and sets out to get into the cursed tomb of Tynan. An adventure that her father and a hundred years’ worth of heroes attempted.
What’s a heroine without a young protégé? Theo is a girl who’s had a rough start. She’s got by before the adventure as a thief and she stole a bit of Aeryn’s sympathy as well.
There’s adventure, magic, and an ancient evil baddie. What more could you ask for?
I got a free copy of this book by signing up for Rycroft’s newsletter. It’s one of the more content rich newsletters I’m subscribed to and I was very happy to see a message a few months ago directed at combating social evil. I’m glad someone is using their platform to fight injustice. Why let your protagonist do all the heavy lifting, right?
Sure I took the free route, but this book is Da’ Bomb (90s kid) and I would pay dearly for a copy if I were you. Or cover price at the very least…
What’s a heroine without a young protégé? Theo is a girl who’s had a rough start. She’s got by before the adventure as a thief and she stole a bit of Aeryn’s sympathy as well.
There’s adventure, magic, and an ancient evil baddie. What more could you ask for?
I got a free copy of this book by signing up for Rycroft’s newsletter. It’s one of the more content rich newsletters I’m subscribed to and I was very happy to see a message a few months ago directed at combating social evil. I’m glad someone is using their platform to fight injustice. Why let your protagonist do all the heavy lifting, right?
Sure I took the free route, but this book is Da’ Bomb (90s kid) and I would pay dearly for a copy if I were you. Or cover price at the very least…
June 22, 2017
Character and Dialogue 16 points
Setting and Description 18 points
Plot and Creativity 15 points
Technical Ability 17 points
Cover and Blurb 17 points
Overall 83 points
• Main character is kind of wooden for most of the book, but opens up as the story goes on; secondary characters are excellent.
• Not much detail about character appearance, but very good description of settings and events, as well as fast-paced action sequences.
• Easy to follow plot, with an excellent climax. Some characters introduced later than they should have been. No romantic plotline, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
• Good grammar and spelling, not many mistakes. Story pacing works well. Point of view changes are abrupt and sometimes seem unnecessary.
• Cover fits the story and draws the reader’s eye. Blurb has a nice hook and draws the reader in without extraneous details.
See my detailed review at https://readordiebooks.wordpress.com/...
Setting and Description 18 points
Plot and Creativity 15 points
Technical Ability 17 points
Cover and Blurb 17 points
Overall 83 points
• Main character is kind of wooden for most of the book, but opens up as the story goes on; secondary characters are excellent.
• Not much detail about character appearance, but very good description of settings and events, as well as fast-paced action sequences.
• Easy to follow plot, with an excellent climax. Some characters introduced later than they should have been. No romantic plotline, but this isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
• Good grammar and spelling, not many mistakes. Story pacing works well. Point of view changes are abrupt and sometimes seem unnecessary.
• Cover fits the story and draws the reader’s eye. Blurb has a nice hook and draws the reader in without extraneous details.
See my detailed review at https://readordiebooks.wordpress.com/...
September 12, 2016
"I need you to help me kill The Harbinger. I need the strength I know you have in you, that I don't have in me."
So I won a beautiful autographed special edition paperback copy of INTO THE DARKNESS through a Goodreads giveaway. This review is my own.
A ragtag group of individuals who otherwise would never have looked twice at each other must go on a journey to face an ancient being who thrives on death, power, and destruction.
Aeryn's on a mission to do something on her own, but for her late father.
Theo's on a mission just trying to survive and save those who mean the most to her.
Tynan's on a mission to try to find his purpose for lingering in this world.
Thystle's up for an adventure and a fight. Her last mission left her searching for more.
They will meet so many characters on their journey. Some who will help and some who will decimate their plans. Yet, some will show no matter how broken life is, if you are willing, something else can fill the void.
Each character's mission will change.
It must!
Or the characters will drown falling INTO THE DARKNESS.
So I won a beautiful autographed special edition paperback copy of INTO THE DARKNESS through a Goodreads giveaway. This review is my own.
A ragtag group of individuals who otherwise would never have looked twice at each other must go on a journey to face an ancient being who thrives on death, power, and destruction.
Aeryn's on a mission to do something on her own, but for her late father.
Theo's on a mission just trying to survive and save those who mean the most to her.
Tynan's on a mission to try to find his purpose for lingering in this world.
Thystle's up for an adventure and a fight. Her last mission left her searching for more.
They will meet so many characters on their journey. Some who will help and some who will decimate their plans. Yet, some will show no matter how broken life is, if you are willing, something else can fill the void.
Each character's mission will change.
It must!
Or the characters will drown falling INTO THE DARKNESS.
September 16, 2015
Full disclosure: I am not generally a fan of fantasy. I slogged through Lord of the Rings. I have yet to motivate myself to get through 50 pages of the second George R.R. Martin Song of Ice and Fire series. It's always too detailed. Too verbose. I like my fantasy in film or television format. It's more digestible for me. That being said, I absolutely loved this novel. I loved that the main character was a woman. A woman who could buck the old stereotype of a "damsel in distress" and fight for herself. Aeryn is an excellent heroine. Another aspect of the novel I greatly enjoyed was the relationship between Aeryn and Tynan, which evolved throughout the course of the story. The villain was horrific; unlike any other villain I've come across in my reading. What Rycroft does really well in her writing is establishing and testing relationships among her characters. From the relationship between Aeryn and Theo, to the interactions of the group that forms near the end of the novel, all are interesting and very realistic. I'm hoping for a follow-up. I want to see where these characters go in the future.
August 30, 2016
When your first major complaint of a novel is the title, and how many other novels share the same title, there is something going well in the writing itself. I don't read a lot of sword and sorcery fantasy, but enough to understand some of the tropes, as well as the cliches. This writer does pretty well with some surprises, and some subtle development of characters in unexpected directions. It is a quest story from the beginning, and doesn't shilly shally about it. I do wonder if the author has ever ridden for hours on the back of a horse behind someone else.
I only gave it four stars instead of five because of the problem of the title. I had to use the author's name and the title in order to find this page. It was buried under the other hundred Into the Darkness books and variations of the same. - David W. Wooddell
I only gave it four stars instead of five because of the problem of the title. I had to use the author's name and the title in order to find this page. It was buried under the other hundred Into the Darkness books and variations of the same. - David W. Wooddell
September 20, 2016
Set in the Fantasy world of Cathell, you follow the sell-sword Aeryn on her adventure to stop the great evil from destroying her home.
This book was amazing on so many levels. From a callus start to a loving finish you are kept on the edge of your seat as to what is happening as you follow Aeryn the Cathell. Surprises abound around every corner, i couldn't stop reading, even while working on my own writing projects, I kept getting drawn back to Aeryn and Theo.
If you enjoyed books such as Eragon, Lord of the Rings, Redwall, or even reading the Magic: the Gathering or Forgotten Realms books then you will find yourself lost in this book easily as the author drives the story with an easy narrative. Highly Suggested!
This book was amazing on so many levels. From a callus start to a loving finish you are kept on the edge of your seat as to what is happening as you follow Aeryn the Cathell. Surprises abound around every corner, i couldn't stop reading, even while working on my own writing projects, I kept getting drawn back to Aeryn and Theo.
If you enjoyed books such as Eragon, Lord of the Rings, Redwall, or even reading the Magic: the Gathering or Forgotten Realms books then you will find yourself lost in this book easily as the author drives the story with an easy narrative. Highly Suggested!
May 13, 2015
Review: INTO THE DARKNESS by A.M. Rycroft
A well-written and intriguing fantasy focused on a young man's quest to discover his own place and purpose in life, and a young woman who becomes a mercenary to honor the memory of her father. The characters are well-rounded and explored, and the writing style will keep readers poised to discover more, and hoping to see the story continued in sequels.
A well-written and intriguing fantasy focused on a young man's quest to discover his own place and purpose in life, and a young woman who becomes a mercenary to honor the memory of her father. The characters are well-rounded and explored, and the writing style will keep readers poised to discover more, and hoping to see the story continued in sequels.
May 30, 2015
Still reading half way through. Very engaging. Love it can't wait to see what happens next! Great characters & story!
January 21, 2017
Though it seemed to start off a little slowly for me, the story eventually picked up speed and came together shortly thereafter. Rycroft did a fantastic job with the main character, Aeryn, painting the picture of a strong, yet caring, complex, while relatable; we need more female heroes like her! Dark fantasy is not a genre I typically read, but I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
March 29, 2018
I enjoyed the story. Ms Rycroft takes us on a spectacular dark adventure. If you like dark adventure the this is the book for you . I did think that the hero in the book was slightly under developed especially in the beginning, but as you progress in the story all becomes clear . looking forward to reading the rest of the series .
January 6, 2018
I requested this from the Pittsburgh library shortly after its Pittsburgh-area writer got a review in the Pittsburgh newspaper. Unfortunately, the book and its title are so forgettable, I forgot I'd read it and requested it again six months later...
December 14, 2018
Really enjoyed this story. Would love to read more of the characters.
March 24, 2018
Aeryn Ravane is attempting to complete her father’s quest by entering the caverns in search of an ancient sword once owned by a mage named Tynan. She has obtained an artifact that should open the sealed caves so she can complete her mission. What happens deep inside the cave is unexpected, though Tynan’s curse is supposed to be lifted, the sword was holding an evil god hostage as well. The Harbinger is a force for evil and soon his darkness quickly spreads throughout Cathell. It seems the only means to stop him may lie with the sword that Aeryn has claimed.
Along the way, Aeryn meets young Theo. She is a thief on her own mission to steal the sword from Aeryn. The leader of the Thieves Guild is holding her brother hostage for the sword and Theo would do almost anything to save her brother. This story takes us to the richly woven world of Cathell. The characters are all well-drawn and Aeryn meets more allies along the way. Great Fantasy Adventure.
Along the way, Aeryn meets young Theo. She is a thief on her own mission to steal the sword from Aeryn. The leader of the Thieves Guild is holding her brother hostage for the sword and Theo would do almost anything to save her brother. This story takes us to the richly woven world of Cathell. The characters are all well-drawn and Aeryn meets more allies along the way. Great Fantasy Adventure.
February 2, 2020
Being a picky reader when it comes to fantasy I must say this book surprised me. While it may not be the most moody gloomy book out there, it had plenty.
The main characters were interesting even though being the typical "im mad at the world and hate everything" type. The child who tags along at first was annoying but grew on me as well.
My biggest complaint was the end. It seemed mildly rushed. "Heres the main evil bad guy. Oh hes dead now." Over all a good read.
The main characters were interesting even though being the typical "im mad at the world and hate everything" type. The child who tags along at first was annoying but grew on me as well.
My biggest complaint was the end. It seemed mildly rushed. "Heres the main evil bad guy. Oh hes dead now." Over all a good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 18, 2018
I really enjoyed reading this novel. It had all the elements of traditional D and D characters, sell-swords, thieves, inn keepers, elves, magicians, etc. the plot centers around the sell-sword Aeryn who is out to break a curse to find the sword Aric in memory of her father. Along the way she finds Theo ( a ten year old thief) who gets trapped by a giant spider, and the action keeps going...
The antagonist a fallen god who chose to call himself the Harbinger, is wickedly evil. His blood thirst is unquenchable. He nearly succeeds in bringing the world to its knees if not for the assault of Aeryn and her 6 other companions which included, a thief, a cleric, a paladin, a ranger, a Scepters son and a Vampyre.
Other characters include the ghost of the Magician Tynan who body snatches a dead soldier to help her get to the city of the gods so that she can defeat the Harbinger, and Thystle a friend who has chosen to be turned into a Vampyre.
After the battle is finally won and the characters return to their homes there is a charming scene with Theo and Aeryn that ends the story.
It was well written except for all the little typos like AND when it should have been AN, and others along the similar line. Fast packed action, descriptive scenes, clear images, a real turn pager.
The antagonist a fallen god who chose to call himself the Harbinger, is wickedly evil. His blood thirst is unquenchable. He nearly succeeds in bringing the world to its knees if not for the assault of Aeryn and her 6 other companions which included, a thief, a cleric, a paladin, a ranger, a Scepters son and a Vampyre.
Other characters include the ghost of the Magician Tynan who body snatches a dead soldier to help her get to the city of the gods so that she can defeat the Harbinger, and Thystle a friend who has chosen to be turned into a Vampyre.
After the battle is finally won and the characters return to their homes there is a charming scene with Theo and Aeryn that ends the story.
It was well written except for all the little typos like AND when it should have been AN, and others along the similar line. Fast packed action, descriptive scenes, clear images, a real turn pager.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 7, 2025
Into the Darkness is an adventure fantasy with a seriously dark twist.
The book is not vastly long, but it is somewhat longer than average. By the end, though, I felt like it was a short book because it moved so swiftly and was so compelling.
Aeryn Ravane, a female sellsword sets out to venture into a cavern complex reportedly created by a long-dead wizard adventurer from a bare cave during his heyday to find the enchanted sword he left behind. She is doing this to honor her adoptive father who was something of a fan of the dead wizard and had tried a few times to find the sword himself.
Many people have already lost their lives trying to get into the caverns. Aeryn has done her research and sought out magical tools that should let her in. Amazingly, she makes her way inside.
There are traps and scary symbols all through the caverns. Aeryn wonders about them but doesn’t have time to investigate further. At one point she discovers that a young girl – even younger than herself – has followed her in. She winds up rescuing the girl, who says her name is Theo, from the web of a giant spider. And this is more of a diversion than Aeryn feels she has time for.
Still more passages and traps later, Aeryn and Theo finally reach the place where the adventurer died. To their surprise, they discover that his ghost is still there. After they talk to him for a while, he decides that Aeryn is the appropriate person to have the sword, and he gives it to her. He even accompanies them back to the cave entrance.
It’s been obvious all along that Theo is a thief. But when, as soon as they leave the cave, they are accosted by a band of other thieves, and Theo shouts at them for messing up her operation, Aeryn realizes she has been betrayed. The ghost – his name is Tynan Selvantyr – comes out of the cavern and launches a spell at the band of thieves, killing them (but not Theo). Immediately after, the entrance to the caverns collapses as some kind of black cloud leaks out of it.
Easy peasy. Right?
Well, not so much. When they return to the nearest town, where Theo is a member of the Thieves Guild, we discover that the guild master, a pathetic excuse for a human being named Pythun, wanted the sword in exchange for Theo’s brother, who he had been holding hostage. When she doesn’t deliver, he has her beaten up and sends her to try again to get it from Aeryn. Turns out that Theo’s brother has been dead for weeks already.
While Aeryn and Tynan try to avoid this outcome, Pythun participates in some sort of ceremony that is supposed to merge him with a being he calls a god. Actually, this so-called god much more strongly resembles a demon or even a devil. It calls itself the Harbinger of Death or something and possesses Pythun’s body. It feeds off of human sacrifice. Most of the rest of the book is spent in pursuit of this Harbinger and trying to find a way to kill it.
The book is not vastly long, but it is somewhat longer than average. By the end, though, I felt like it was a short book because it moved so swiftly and was so compelling.
Aeryn Ravane, a female sellsword sets out to venture into a cavern complex reportedly created by a long-dead wizard adventurer from a bare cave during his heyday to find the enchanted sword he left behind. She is doing this to honor her adoptive father who was something of a fan of the dead wizard and had tried a few times to find the sword himself.
Many people have already lost their lives trying to get into the caverns. Aeryn has done her research and sought out magical tools that should let her in. Amazingly, she makes her way inside.
There are traps and scary symbols all through the caverns. Aeryn wonders about them but doesn’t have time to investigate further. At one point she discovers that a young girl – even younger than herself – has followed her in. She winds up rescuing the girl, who says her name is Theo, from the web of a giant spider. And this is more of a diversion than Aeryn feels she has time for.
Still more passages and traps later, Aeryn and Theo finally reach the place where the adventurer died. To their surprise, they discover that his ghost is still there. After they talk to him for a while, he decides that Aeryn is the appropriate person to have the sword, and he gives it to her. He even accompanies them back to the cave entrance.
It’s been obvious all along that Theo is a thief. But when, as soon as they leave the cave, they are accosted by a band of other thieves, and Theo shouts at them for messing up her operation, Aeryn realizes she has been betrayed. The ghost – his name is Tynan Selvantyr – comes out of the cavern and launches a spell at the band of thieves, killing them (but not Theo). Immediately after, the entrance to the caverns collapses as some kind of black cloud leaks out of it.
Easy peasy. Right?
Well, not so much. When they return to the nearest town, where Theo is a member of the Thieves Guild, we discover that the guild master, a pathetic excuse for a human being named Pythun, wanted the sword in exchange for Theo’s brother, who he had been holding hostage. When she doesn’t deliver, he has her beaten up and sends her to try again to get it from Aeryn. Turns out that Theo’s brother has been dead for weeks already.
While Aeryn and Tynan try to avoid this outcome, Pythun participates in some sort of ceremony that is supposed to merge him with a being he calls a god. Actually, this so-called god much more strongly resembles a demon or even a devil. It calls itself the Harbinger of Death or something and possesses Pythun’s body. It feeds off of human sacrifice. Most of the rest of the book is spent in pursuit of this Harbinger and trying to find a way to kill it.
February 26, 2017
A great start to an intriguing world, AM Rycroft creates a world fantasy and dark magic that’s easy to follow with a set of strong female characters who are relatable and real. Aeryn is a sell-sword with a very specific goal in mind, and being shadowed by the thief Theo isn’t in her plans but the two come together to form an alliance against a greater enemy. There are the odd passages that have word repetition, and some time spent travelling, but overall the story was well crafted and unique.
December 21, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Into the Darkness is an ambitious dark fantasy novel by indie author A.M. Rycroft. I say "ambitious" because she attempts to weave a story with a lot of intertwining plot elements. For the most part, she succeeds.
There isn't much in the way of new territory that is explored in this story as Rycroft utilizes rather standard elements of high fantasy. There is a quest, a magic sword, some sorcery, and even a vampyre (her spelling). However, she does put some interesting twists on these features that create a rather interesting story.
Her use of description is strong. When it is cold, you feel cold. When the characters are in the inn, you can smell the mutton stew cooking in the pot. The main character, Aeryn, is perhaps too complex as her motivations, upbringing and back story don't always mesh together very well. The character of Theo is perhaps the weakest link in the tale as she is inconsistent in her own actions. She also exceeds the boundaries of what I think one might expect (in word and deed) from a ten year-old. I found Tynan to be the most interesting of the main characters (and not simply because he was dead for the entire book). His prideful nature went far towards creating the entire mess the group was attempting to clean up, and he grew throughout the story as he confronted that reality. However, the seeds of that growth weren't introduced with any specificity until what is essentially an epilog. If that had been presented at the beginning of the story, it would have better framed Tynan's character.
The antagonist is simply ghastly. The Harbinger knows no limits when it comes to inflicting pain and misery on whatever crosses his path. There is a real element of dread in every scene where he appears.
The writing is pretty crisp and the narrative well-constructed. Sometimes it gallops along a bit too quickly, and this is exacerbated by Rycroft's use of rather short chapters. The supporting characters are relatively flat (and short-lived!) with the exception of Thystle. Thystle represents Rycroft's rather interesting take on vampyrism (her spelling). The remaining supporting characters serve essentially to fill out the party with the requisite classes you might find in a game of AD&D.
The evocative nature of the writing combines with Rycroft's highly-detailed setting to make this a rather interesting read. Anyone looking for a good old-fashioned sword and sorcery story (with a twist, or two) will enjoy Into the Darkness. I have read a number of books by indie authors, and this one is easily the best to date.
Into the Darkness is an ambitious dark fantasy novel by indie author A.M. Rycroft. I say "ambitious" because she attempts to weave a story with a lot of intertwining plot elements. For the most part, she succeeds.
There isn't much in the way of new territory that is explored in this story as Rycroft utilizes rather standard elements of high fantasy. There is a quest, a magic sword, some sorcery, and even a vampyre (her spelling). However, she does put some interesting twists on these features that create a rather interesting story.
Her use of description is strong. When it is cold, you feel cold. When the characters are in the inn, you can smell the mutton stew cooking in the pot. The main character, Aeryn, is perhaps too complex as her motivations, upbringing and back story don't always mesh together very well. The character of Theo is perhaps the weakest link in the tale as she is inconsistent in her own actions. She also exceeds the boundaries of what I think one might expect (in word and deed) from a ten year-old. I found Tynan to be the most interesting of the main characters (and not simply because he was dead for the entire book). His prideful nature went far towards creating the entire mess the group was attempting to clean up, and he grew throughout the story as he confronted that reality. However, the seeds of that growth weren't introduced with any specificity until what is essentially an epilog. If that had been presented at the beginning of the story, it would have better framed Tynan's character.
The antagonist is simply ghastly. The Harbinger knows no limits when it comes to inflicting pain and misery on whatever crosses his path. There is a real element of dread in every scene where he appears.
The writing is pretty crisp and the narrative well-constructed. Sometimes it gallops along a bit too quickly, and this is exacerbated by Rycroft's use of rather short chapters. The supporting characters are relatively flat (and short-lived!) with the exception of Thystle. Thystle represents Rycroft's rather interesting take on vampyrism (her spelling). The remaining supporting characters serve essentially to fill out the party with the requisite classes you might find in a game of AD&D.
The evocative nature of the writing combines with Rycroft's highly-detailed setting to make this a rather interesting read. Anyone looking for a good old-fashioned sword and sorcery story (with a twist, or two) will enjoy Into the Darkness. I have read a number of books by indie authors, and this one is easily the best to date.
February 20, 2016
Into the Darkness is a classic Fantasy in the tradition of Dragonlance and the Forgotten Realm novels. However, it feels too much like it is pulled directly from someone's AD&D campaign-which in and of itself isn't bad-but it made it feel a bit silly when in general the book was rather serious. At times I felt it might be suitable for the same ages who read Rick Riordan, then there would be something that was too creepy for that young of an audience.
For me, the creepy parts were the best. The picture of the Harbinger and his unrepentant evil that the book painted were deeply morbid and disturbing. I really wish we would have had more of that and less of the mundane interactions of the characters. The Harbinger's minions were a delightful creepfest, as scary as the Others in A Song of Fire and Ice. If this story would have been struggle against them from city to city and moved into this much quicker it would have been a riveting read.
I felt the book would have flowed better without going into things that really didn't matter all that much to the plot. Some were to give us character background, but I felt they dragged out too long and in the end I didn't really feel much sympathy for them. The action was too far between and some of minor things bothered me - like no wine for the youngest member of the party and worrying about someone cursing around them? Not something anyone would care about in a medieval style fantasy. Then a hinted at romantic crush that also did nothing.
There were some minor typos/evil spell check issues, but they didn't really bother me, especially not in a book of this size. I can tell there were serious efforts to edit this book and the writing was very tight and professional. But I really think the book could have cut down on about a fourth of the words, tightened up the plot and made us feel a bit more for the characters. Then it could have been a 5 star read for me.
I do recommend this book for folks who like large, sweeping, old school fantasy stories. It is a good adventure and very well written. I think the author has serious potential and I will be keeping an eye on them.
For me, the creepy parts were the best. The picture of the Harbinger and his unrepentant evil that the book painted were deeply morbid and disturbing. I really wish we would have had more of that and less of the mundane interactions of the characters. The Harbinger's minions were a delightful creepfest, as scary as the Others in A Song of Fire and Ice. If this story would have been struggle against them from city to city and moved into this much quicker it would have been a riveting read.
I felt the book would have flowed better without going into things that really didn't matter all that much to the plot. Some were to give us character background, but I felt they dragged out too long and in the end I didn't really feel much sympathy for them. The action was too far between and some of minor things bothered me - like no wine for the youngest member of the party and worrying about someone cursing around them? Not something anyone would care about in a medieval style fantasy. Then a hinted at romantic crush that also did nothing.
There were some minor typos/evil spell check issues, but they didn't really bother me, especially not in a book of this size. I can tell there were serious efforts to edit this book and the writing was very tight and professional. But I really think the book could have cut down on about a fourth of the words, tightened up the plot and made us feel a bit more for the characters. Then it could have been a 5 star read for me.
I do recommend this book for folks who like large, sweeping, old school fantasy stories. It is a good adventure and very well written. I think the author has serious potential and I will be keeping an eye on them.
December 1, 2016
I've been aware of dark fantasy as a genre for a long time, but this was the first novel I've read that described itself as such. This made me really excited to read it, because I was looking for something new in fantasy, and hopefully a little scary as well. Unfortunately, I was let down in that regard. "Into the Darkness" featured an army of bad guys, a handful of monsters and reanimated corpses, and The Harbinger, a Sauron-like Big Bad who is bent on evil and destruction for its own sake. These are all things I have seen plenty of times before in your run-of-the-mill fantasy, and nothing about their execution struck me as being particularly "dark." It wasn't until the last 50 or so pages that things got a bit of horror flair, but in my opinion, it was too little too late. Personally, I'd just classify this book as high fantasy.
The book had its share of problems. Much of the dialogue was stilted and unrealistic, and occasionally served as nothing more than info dumps. Many of the minor characters came off reading more like conveniently placed NPCs than actual people, and some of the conflicts between the main characters felt contrived, which made it hard to feel invested in those moments. Lastly, while the book started and ended strong, the middle dragged on as our heroes did little more than travel from town to town.
However, the book had its redeeming moments too. Though some of the characters' interactions seemed forced, when Rycroft did them well they showcased their personalities and were very enjoyable to read. I rather liked the main characters too, especially Theo. And then there was the climax. It was gripping, and in my opinion, that alone was enough to make the read worth it.
Overall, it was a decent fantasy read. I wouldn't recommend it for someone who needs an action-filled book, or to be kept at the edge of their seats the whole time. However, someone who has a soft spot for the tried and true "ragtag group of heroes saves the world from the Big Bad" types of stories might enjoy this book.
The book had its share of problems. Much of the dialogue was stilted and unrealistic, and occasionally served as nothing more than info dumps. Many of the minor characters came off reading more like conveniently placed NPCs than actual people, and some of the conflicts between the main characters felt contrived, which made it hard to feel invested in those moments. Lastly, while the book started and ended strong, the middle dragged on as our heroes did little more than travel from town to town.
However, the book had its redeeming moments too. Though some of the characters' interactions seemed forced, when Rycroft did them well they showcased their personalities and were very enjoyable to read. I rather liked the main characters too, especially Theo. And then there was the climax. It was gripping, and in my opinion, that alone was enough to make the read worth it.
Overall, it was a decent fantasy read. I wouldn't recommend it for someone who needs an action-filled book, or to be kept at the edge of their seats the whole time. However, someone who has a soft spot for the tried and true "ragtag group of heroes saves the world from the Big Bad" types of stories might enjoy this book.
August 24, 2016
I received a free advanced copy of Into the Darkness Special Edition by A. M. Rycroft in exchange for an honest review. Overall, this was a fun read. It follows the typical fantasy pattern of a party going on a quest to save the world. Rycroft does a nice job of taking this plot line and owning it with this novel.
The story follows Aeryn Ravane, a sell-sword, who is on a quest to finish what her deceased father started in seeking out ancient legends. Little did she know that this would start a chain of events that will threaten the safety of the world.
There were several elements I liked in this novel. As with Rycroft’s novella, The Taming also set in the world of Cathell, Rycroft does a wonderful job of world building here. The details, such as a distinct difference between sell-swords and mercenaries, lend a wonderful reality to the world that is unique and rich with its own history and way of life. Rycroft also does a good job of creating believable and distinct characters. Each character has his or her strengths and weaknesses, which is nice to see in terms of making the characters realistic and believable.
There were two things I did not like as much with the novel. I did see some typos and missing words in places. Most of it was minor and did not detract too much from the overall story or its readability. The other issue I had was that several of the characters did not seem to have much development. While Aeryn is seen growing and changing as the story progresses, I did not see as much with Theo or Tynan. It would have been nice to see how the events in the book changed them as well.
As I said, this is a good read and a well written story. If you are into fantasy with a dark twist, this is a novel worth checking out.
The story follows Aeryn Ravane, a sell-sword, who is on a quest to finish what her deceased father started in seeking out ancient legends. Little did she know that this would start a chain of events that will threaten the safety of the world.
There were several elements I liked in this novel. As with Rycroft’s novella, The Taming also set in the world of Cathell, Rycroft does a wonderful job of world building here. The details, such as a distinct difference between sell-swords and mercenaries, lend a wonderful reality to the world that is unique and rich with its own history and way of life. Rycroft also does a good job of creating believable and distinct characters. Each character has his or her strengths and weaknesses, which is nice to see in terms of making the characters realistic and believable.
There were two things I did not like as much with the novel. I did see some typos and missing words in places. Most of it was minor and did not detract too much from the overall story or its readability. The other issue I had was that several of the characters did not seem to have much development. While Aeryn is seen growing and changing as the story progresses, I did not see as much with Theo or Tynan. It would have been nice to see how the events in the book changed them as well.
As I said, this is a good read and a well written story. If you are into fantasy with a dark twist, this is a novel worth checking out.
July 1, 2015
The novel is quick paced and a quick read, following young Aeyrn Ravane on her self-imposed quest to discover the secrets of the Black Caverns, a legendary abode of a long ago adventurer. Along the way she gathers companions including a magic-using shade of the adventurer himself, a very young want to be thief, and a vampyre, as well as the prerequisite enemies who want to do away with her. And her world, of course. And although she has doubts and her own dark secrets, she’s the one who can save them all.
I’m a greedy audience. I wanted more. I wanted a deeper history of Cathell. I wanted more of the mythos of the land. I wanted the action to take longer, be more drawn out. I wanted the struggles to be more arduous, so my identification with the characters could be stronger. I wanted more information on the characters: I wanted to really get inside their heads. The story is straight-forward, but the teasing hints of backstories for the main characters were there, and that presents the opportunity to revisit and make their world and lives richer.
I’m not sure if this is the first of a series. I hope it is, because then my selfish wants of more, more, more! can be fulfilled.
I’m a greedy audience. I wanted more. I wanted a deeper history of Cathell. I wanted more of the mythos of the land. I wanted the action to take longer, be more drawn out. I wanted the struggles to be more arduous, so my identification with the characters could be stronger. I wanted more information on the characters: I wanted to really get inside their heads. The story is straight-forward, but the teasing hints of backstories for the main characters were there, and that presents the opportunity to revisit and make their world and lives richer.
I’m not sure if this is the first of a series. I hope it is, because then my selfish wants of more, more, more! can be fulfilled.
December 8, 2016
Gentle Readers, this is a story right up my alley. Swords, sorcery, good and evil gods, heroes and villains. All in a home brew world that would be great as a pen and paper, dice rolling weekend like I spent in my younger years. Rycroft gives us realism and cohesion in both character personality and the world in general.
Aeryn Ravane is a sellsword with a mission, to complete her father's final quest to break the curse on the Black Caverns and gain access to the treasures within. What Aeryn doesn't know is that her long journey is just beginning. She is joined by the master of the Black Caverns, Tynan Selvantyr, or at least his ghost as the mage has been dead for 150 years. Also joining her is young Theo, a street thief with secrets of her own. With The Harbinger loose from his prison in the Black Caverns, Aeryn is on a race against time to find the courage within to face her past, and take out the evil mad god.
Rycroft's tale was a joy to read and had all the elements of a great fantasy tale. I look forward to more from him, especially this Cathell Series as I don't think the gods are done with Aeryn and her friends just yet.
Aeryn Ravane is a sellsword with a mission, to complete her father's final quest to break the curse on the Black Caverns and gain access to the treasures within. What Aeryn doesn't know is that her long journey is just beginning. She is joined by the master of the Black Caverns, Tynan Selvantyr, or at least his ghost as the mage has been dead for 150 years. Also joining her is young Theo, a street thief with secrets of her own. With The Harbinger loose from his prison in the Black Caverns, Aeryn is on a race against time to find the courage within to face her past, and take out the evil mad god.
Rycroft's tale was a joy to read and had all the elements of a great fantasy tale. I look forward to more from him, especially this Cathell Series as I don't think the gods are done with Aeryn and her friends just yet.
May 22, 2015
I was three quarters of the way through this novel when I quit. I had been having a rough time caring about the characters for a few days and I realized, I was near the end and I didn't care one way or another.
First, this is a decent fantasy with some excellent world building. Unfortunately the novel lacks believability when it comes to its characters. The dialogue is stilted and contrived. And, although we've been told a few of the characters have anger issues or trust issues, they are more likely to display generalized misgivings or moodiness that is worked out two pages later.
I wanted to really love this book because it right in my wheelhouse, but it lacked characters who were genuine.
First, this is a decent fantasy with some excellent world building. Unfortunately the novel lacks believability when it comes to its characters. The dialogue is stilted and contrived. And, although we've been told a few of the characters have anger issues or trust issues, they are more likely to display generalized misgivings or moodiness that is worked out two pages later.
I wanted to really love this book because it right in my wheelhouse, but it lacked characters who were genuine.
June 30, 2020
An evil God, a sword that can stop him. A woman, finding the sword, and fulfilling her father's lifelong dream. A young thief girl traveling along with her. An adventure. A ghost traveler. They seek to stop the evil God from exterminating all life.
This book is gritty, with tons of action, a well-thought out world with fleshed-out characters and a lingering doom in the air. Everyone must come together to try and stop the Harbinger from destroying everyone. They face the evil god, and even the undead as they try to defeat what seems like an impossible quest. Not everyone will survive ...
I rather enjoyed Rycroft's book. It's a bit darker than the type of fantasy I typically like to read, but the storytelling is well done.
This book is gritty, with tons of action, a well-thought out world with fleshed-out characters and a lingering doom in the air. Everyone must come together to try and stop the Harbinger from destroying everyone. They face the evil god, and even the undead as they try to defeat what seems like an impossible quest. Not everyone will survive ...
I rather enjoyed Rycroft's book. It's a bit darker than the type of fantasy I typically like to read, but the storytelling is well done.
June 18, 2015
Rycroft takes the admittedly familiar swords-and-sorcery fantasy archetype and puts her own dark spin on it with a fully fleshed-out world full of memorable, believable characters with its own mythos. I read an interview somewhere in which she says she'd like to someday see the story made into a movie or miniseries, and I agree; not only is the story well-paced and interesting, but Rycroft's writing has a very cinematic feel to it. The reader not only can envision each "scene" within the book but also the lighting, camera angle, and transition to the next shot.
An excellent read, one which I wholeheartedly recommend to any fan of fantasy, horror, or any combination thereof.
An excellent read, one which I wholeheartedly recommend to any fan of fantasy, horror, or any combination thereof.
February 24, 2016
This isn't my usual genre, but I really enjoyed the book. A.M. Rycroft's world building is subtly and superbly done, drawing one into the world of Cathell. The characters are engaging and interesting, with enough flaws to make them believable people. No one is unrealistically "super-powered" or perfect, and all of them need to change to complete their quest. I was particularly fond of the child thief, Theo, who provided some levity in a serious endeavor. Thystle is also an interesting character, and one I'd like to see more of. All in all, I really hope this might be a series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews