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Hellmouth
Bohemia. 1370. A lost soul named Galien leads a band of hardened mercenaries on a mission for Mother Church. But in the dark forests of central Europe, a darker secret awaits. Bestselling author Giles Kristian (Lancelot, The Raven Viking Trilogy) takes us on an unnerving ride into fear and paranoia, bloodshed and redemption.
52 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 19, 2021
257 people are currently reading
6600 people want to read
About the author
Giles Kristian
18 books1,605 followersGiles Kristian's first historical novels were the acclaimed and bestselling RAVEN Viking trilogy – Blood Eye, Sons of Thunder and Odin’s Wolves. For his next series, he drew on a long-held fascination with the English Civil War to chart the fortunes of a family divided by this brutal conflict in The Bleeding Land and Brothers’ Fury. Giles also co-wrote Wilbur Smith’s No.1 bestseller, Golden Lion. In God of Vengeance (a TIMES Book of the Year), Winter’s Fire, and the Historical Writers’ Association Gold Crown shortlisted Wings of the Storm, he returned to the world of the Vikings to tell the story of Sigurd and his celebrated fictional fellowship. Lancelot was published to great acclaim and hit The Times bestseller charts at No. 3. It was also a Sunday Times bestseller. He followed Lancelot with Camelot, and his next novel, a thriller called Where Blood Runs Cold, was the Times' Thriller of the Month, and won the Wilbur Smith Adventure Writing Prize 2022. His next novel, Arthur, will be the final book in his Arthurian Tales. It will be published June 6th. Pre-order links here: https://linktr.ee/arthur_by_giles_kri...
To find out more about Giles: www.gileskristian.com
Follow Giles on Facebook and Twitter: @GilesKristian
To find out more about Giles: www.gileskristian.com
Follow Giles on Facebook and Twitter: @GilesKristian
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 591 reviews
May 21, 2021
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4.5/5 stars
Hellmouth is a bloody terrifying blend of historical fiction and horror.
This was an impulsive read. I accidentally renewed my Kindle Unlimited subscription, and I thought I might as well pick up something intriguing available there. Then I remember that Giles Kristian, the author behind Lancelot—one of the best books I’ve read—and its great follow-up Camelot, has a new novella published. And so I picked this up, and I couldn’t put it down. Giles Kristian has done it again. Hellmouth is a novella highly inspired by the legend of Houska Castle, a horrific story I didn’t know before reading this novella, and now I can’t put it out of my mind. (Thanks for that, Giles.)
In Bohemia year 1370, Galien leads a band of hardened mercenaries on a mission for Mother Church, and in that mission, only dark secrets await them. I’m going to keep this review fairly brief because Hellmouth is only 52 pages long, and it took me an hour to finish it. Sometimes, I’m truly impressed by an author’s capability to tell so much story and action—without sacrificing the efficient and effective characterizations—in such a short length. And that’s what Giles did with this novella. Kristian’s prose, as witnessed in Lancelot and Camelot, was again utterly engaging, and the descriptions he put in this book felt so vivid. The forest of flesh, the corpses, the grotesque wounds, and the bloodbath; I felt like I could witness and feel the violence happening right in front of me.
I certainly would’ve preferred a novel instead of a novella; it’s Giles Kristian, the more I can read his storytelling, the better. But I can’t lie that Hellmouth is honestly one of the strongest novellas I’ve read. As always, I highly recommend this or anything by Giles Kristian. This review is also a reminder to myself that I have to read Raven and The Rise of Sigurd series by him one day.
You can order the book from: Amazon UK | Amazon US
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Alya, Annabeth, Ben, Blaise, Devin, Diana, Dylan, Edward, Ellen, Gary, Hamad, Helen, Jimmy Nutts, Joie, Luis, Lufi, Melinda, Mike, Miracle, Nicholas, Sarah, Seth, Shaad, Summer, Wendy, Zoe.
4.5/5 stars
Hellmouth is a bloody terrifying blend of historical fiction and horror.
“In the absence of light, darkness prevails”
This was an impulsive read. I accidentally renewed my Kindle Unlimited subscription, and I thought I might as well pick up something intriguing available there. Then I remember that Giles Kristian, the author behind Lancelot—one of the best books I’ve read—and its great follow-up Camelot, has a new novella published. And so I picked this up, and I couldn’t put it down. Giles Kristian has done it again. Hellmouth is a novella highly inspired by the legend of Houska Castle, a horrific story I didn’t know before reading this novella, and now I can’t put it out of my mind. (Thanks for that, Giles.)
“A man builds a castle to keep others out. But this castle, Galien knows as sure as the thump of his heart in his chest, was built to keep something in.”
In Bohemia year 1370, Galien leads a band of hardened mercenaries on a mission for Mother Church, and in that mission, only dark secrets await them. I’m going to keep this review fairly brief because Hellmouth is only 52 pages long, and it took me an hour to finish it. Sometimes, I’m truly impressed by an author’s capability to tell so much story and action—without sacrificing the efficient and effective characterizations—in such a short length. And that’s what Giles did with this novella. Kristian’s prose, as witnessed in Lancelot and Camelot, was again utterly engaging, and the descriptions he put in this book felt so vivid. The forest of flesh, the corpses, the grotesque wounds, and the bloodbath; I felt like I could witness and feel the violence happening right in front of me.
“They all crave violence now, because in violence there is no place for thought, and thought in this place is like a sickness.”
I certainly would’ve preferred a novel instead of a novella; it’s Giles Kristian, the more I can read his storytelling, the better. But I can’t lie that Hellmouth is honestly one of the strongest novellas I’ve read. As always, I highly recommend this or anything by Giles Kristian. This review is also a reminder to myself that I have to read Raven and The Rise of Sigurd series by him one day.
You can order the book from: Amazon UK | Amazon US
You can find this and the rest of my reviews at Novel Notions
Special thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for giving me extra support towards my passion for reading and reviewing!
My Patrons: Alfred, Alya, Annabeth, Ben, Blaise, Devin, Diana, Dylan, Edward, Ellen, Gary, Hamad, Helen, Jimmy Nutts, Joie, Luis, Lufi, Melinda, Mike, Miracle, Nicholas, Sarah, Seth, Shaad, Summer, Wendy, Zoe.
June 21, 2021
I now have a YouTube channel that I run with my brother, called 'The Brothers Gwynne'. Check it out - The Brothers Gwynne
Thank you to Giles Kristian who provided me with the audiobook edition of Hellmouth. This did not alter my opinions on Hellmouth, or my review. All opinions shared are honest.
Giles Kristian is known for his historical fiction, from Arthurian inspired Lancelot, to The Rise of Sigurd in 8th century Scandinavia. In Hellmouth, Giles Kristian deviates to a style of historical fiction with a twist of horror, which is executed equally well.
This is a fantastic novella. Thrust into the shoes of a mercenary band in Bohemia, 1370, the reader is greeted by blood-pumping action, lyrical prose, interesting characters and an engaging plot. The story diverged from what I expected when initially starting, but that by no means demeaned the enjoyment.
In the short space of this novella, Giles Kristian simultaneously builds an authentic feeling world that is gritty and tough, whilst also creating a memorable band of warriors led by leader Galien, who is forced into carrying out a mission for the Mother Church. In this, we see the band fall out of their depth and see how they adapt in attempt to deal with what approaches them. Giles Kristian engages with a dark, brutal and tense mood and atmosphere that whilst being authentic like his other works, relies much more on tension and suspense, which personally I loved.
The audiobook is narrated by the fantastic Philip Stevens, who I would say is one of the best narrators out there. The sheer variety of tone and delivery is what elevates him above most. Whatever tone that Giles Kristian appears to be aiming for, Philip Stevens adapts the delivery and pace to suit and deliver. Wonderful to listen to. Also, this is the first time I have ever actually felt scared by an audiobook. So, if you’re up for an interesting dose of fear in your read as well, this is the one for you.
Overall, Hellmouth is an incredibly well-crafted novella in which Giles Kristian expands and explores different themes and tones with much success. Routed in a historical authenticity set in Bohemia, 1370, Giles in this creates a fantastic, engaging story that is brought to life by poetic prose narrated by Philip Stevens. I would recommend this short read to fans of fantasy, horror and historical fiction alike.
5/5 STARS
Thank you to Giles Kristian who provided me with the audiobook edition of Hellmouth. This did not alter my opinions on Hellmouth, or my review. All opinions shared are honest.
Giles Kristian is known for his historical fiction, from Arthurian inspired Lancelot, to The Rise of Sigurd in 8th century Scandinavia. In Hellmouth, Giles Kristian deviates to a style of historical fiction with a twist of horror, which is executed equally well.
This is a fantastic novella. Thrust into the shoes of a mercenary band in Bohemia, 1370, the reader is greeted by blood-pumping action, lyrical prose, interesting characters and an engaging plot. The story diverged from what I expected when initially starting, but that by no means demeaned the enjoyment.
In the short space of this novella, Giles Kristian simultaneously builds an authentic feeling world that is gritty and tough, whilst also creating a memorable band of warriors led by leader Galien, who is forced into carrying out a mission for the Mother Church. In this, we see the band fall out of their depth and see how they adapt in attempt to deal with what approaches them. Giles Kristian engages with a dark, brutal and tense mood and atmosphere that whilst being authentic like his other works, relies much more on tension and suspense, which personally I loved.
The audiobook is narrated by the fantastic Philip Stevens, who I would say is one of the best narrators out there. The sheer variety of tone and delivery is what elevates him above most. Whatever tone that Giles Kristian appears to be aiming for, Philip Stevens adapts the delivery and pace to suit and deliver. Wonderful to listen to. Also, this is the first time I have ever actually felt scared by an audiobook. So, if you’re up for an interesting dose of fear in your read as well, this is the one for you.
Overall, Hellmouth is an incredibly well-crafted novella in which Giles Kristian expands and explores different themes and tones with much success. Routed in a historical authenticity set in Bohemia, 1370, Giles in this creates a fantastic, engaging story that is brought to life by poetic prose narrated by Philip Stevens. I would recommend this short read to fans of fantasy, horror and historical fiction alike.
5/5 STARS
February 3, 2025
I would have loved to read more in this world!! A brutal medieval-ish dark fantasy about a group of hired hands that are tasked to investigate a village where evil things are supposedly happening. This was creepy, dark, and very violent- a short but intense read!
June 6, 2021
I'm not usually one for horror, being a big old coward, but a blogger I trust (Petrik Leo) said this was brilliant. So I decided to give it a go. He wasn't wrong.
Tense, claustrophobic, and creepy as fuck. This story is the fictional account of a real life ghost story of Houska Castle.
The way it's written is masterful and just drags you along with the narrative, always adding to the tension until you're tight as a bowstring.
Honestly, the only reason it's not 5 stars is the final few pages felt rushed, and all emotion just kinda drained out of it.
4 stars. A really tense, and creepy novella, and well worth an hour or two of your time.
Tense, claustrophobic, and creepy as fuck. This story is the fictional account of a real life ghost story of Houska Castle.
The way it's written is masterful and just drags you along with the narrative, always adding to the tension until you're tight as a bowstring.
Honestly, the only reason it's not 5 stars is the final few pages felt rushed, and all emotion just kinda drained out of it.
4 stars. A really tense, and creepy novella, and well worth an hour or two of your time.
February 11, 2025
Forever jumping to a short, sharp, and shocking extreme horror novella to pull me out of a reading slump. Hellmouth is different to those I usually read, as it’s a medieval-style, brutal, horror. It’s set all the way back in the 1300’s.
Rating it 3 Stars, simply because I feel as though the story could have been fleshed out better at a slightly longer page count than around 50 pages. Even just 20-50 more pages would do. The writing style is detailed and engaging.
Rating it 3 Stars, simply because I feel as though the story could have been fleshed out better at a slightly longer page count than around 50 pages. Even just 20-50 more pages would do. The writing style is detailed and engaging.
January 21, 2023
Didn't know I needed medieval horror in my life.
Read this in one sitting. Incredibly atmospheric, scary and riveting. I definitely need to check out some of Giles Kristian's other work.
5/5
Read this in one sitting. Incredibly atmospheric, scary and riveting. I definitely need to check out some of Giles Kristian's other work.
5/5
December 19, 2021
This novella or long short story as Mr. Kristian calls it is set in Bohemia in 1370. The strange and terrifying events do or do not occur in and near a small village north of Prague. A small group of mercenaries is sent to investigate and bring back a heretic. They number 12 plus their leader. A priest and a nun accompany them. Not much else I can say about the story without spoilers.
As usual, Mr. Kristian's writing is both clear and entertaining. The twist at the end covers the notable discrepancies in the story.
As usual, Mr. Kristian's writing is both clear and entertaining. The twist at the end covers the notable discrepancies in the story.
February 18, 2022
This would be such a great movie. A24 comes to mind.
June 7, 2023
In the absence of light darkness prevails
March 29, 2021
Amazing. Giles' writing is bone-crunchingly good, and Philip Stevens' narration is intense.
Like Black Death meets Doom.
Like Black Death meets Doom.
August 16, 2023
I need to read more of Kristian works!
November 14, 2023
Short horror story from central Bohemia during middle ages. It has thick atmosphere in the second half but I wish first half was paced faster. We get some basic info about the main character and his group of mercenaries. Some exposition is necessary but I just wanted to get to the good part while reading it.
Once the plot is set up the story finally starts to move and doesn't let up until the end. It feels like a cliché to say it but it had Berserk vibes. It's brutal at some places.
I do wish there was more at the end, though. It felt rushed, like one or two scenes were missing before the twist reveal. And after the twist is revealed there's a hard cut for the last paragraph which skips some time. I know what the author tried to do there but for me it was too abrupt. I didn't like it, you might. It's not the worst ending to a short story.
Author mentions that this was originally thought of as movie script and that something might be in the works. I hope so! This would work even better as atmospheric horror movie or a story in some horror anthology show. I don't think any exists, though... Lastly, I have to praise the author for getting the local names correctly including punctuation. Now that's rare!
Once the plot is set up the story finally starts to move and doesn't let up until the end. It feels like a cliché to say it but it had Berserk vibes. It's brutal at some places.
I do wish there was more at the end, though. It felt rushed, like one or two scenes were missing before the twist reveal. And after the twist is revealed there's a hard cut for the last paragraph which skips some time. I know what the author tried to do there but for me it was too abrupt. I didn't like it, you might. It's not the worst ending to a short story.
Author mentions that this was originally thought of as movie script and that something might be in the works. I hope so! This would work even better as atmospheric horror movie or a story in some horror anthology show. I don't think any exists, though... Lastly, I have to praise the author for getting the local names correctly including punctuation. Now that's rare!
March 21, 2022
I have a history with this short story. Rest assured, nothing as serious as Galien's secrets. Last year (2021), Hellmouth was recommended to me by a friend. Now, it looks as if it will be my yearly reread. It's perfect! But I'll do my best to show you why soon. I first read it an hour shy of my knee surgery; It was late afternoon, and I was one of the last outpatients waiting for the medical staff to call me to get operated on.
I was hungry, moody, anxious and in pain. So, I called my friend, and we spoke about two movies: the 13th Warrior and the Season of the Witch; remember that Hellmouth by Giles Kristian is similar to the two movies I've seen and mentioned. I was not too fond of the last film, but I hold the former in high esteem, and my affection for this short story steals the fire from the other two. (This is a few hours before the surgeons opened my knee). Somewhere in between, my friend talked about this work, which I believe was a new release at the time. Cool, I can finish it before going under, I thought. So I did. I read it and enjoyed it; then I reread it in 2022 with a clearer head.
And let me tell you, my last thoughts before the anaesthesia kicked in the operating theatre. There were naked women hanging upside down by the room's ceiling. I can picture it now and heard the heart monitor spike cause it was a very frightening thought. If the author can conjure a chilling vision then the author deserves such praise. I got cold all over, man! Afterwards, I kept thinking about it and of its excommunicated protagonist. This is in 2021.
In 2022, I wanted a quick-fun-and-engaging read, and I immediately thought about this book. Hellmouth terrified me, and that dark pit in the earth was calling out my name again. So I welcomed the calling with open arms, and yet again, I couldn't sleep because I love reading about the Devil! Kristian's prose carves each scene in meticulous detail, and I swear I could picture the worst of the worst because of it.
Before I read Hellmouth, I had never owned books by Giles Kristian, and I've only heard about him through other reviewers and understand he only writes Historical Fiction. I also own Where Blood Runs Cold and will read it soon. His new release is a thriller, so the author expands his influence. Cool, I enjoy a good thriller as much as horror. With Hellmouth, my opinion of the author has elevated with respect, for if his books are this fun and smitten with great prose, I'll be sure to read whatever other books he publishes. Giles Kristian can even write gestures so well in this story that it has left me open-mouthed. I can mention the scene where Galien converses with Cardinal Cesarini. It's one of my favourite scenes in this work.
Enter Hellmouth. This 52-page read hides what it is under the guise of a battle or skirmish, and while it manages to surprise you, it reveals some cool concepts about medieval warfare I never bothered to think about. I've learnt more about armour than in any other work. It is just perfect horror, people! That scene in the hall is disgusting and will remain with me indefinitely. The prose is engaging, and Kristian delivers each scene, with relish and originality, like a wordsmith.
The story is about mercenaries taking contracts in the Czech Republic, and later the party is quickly embroiled in an agreement with the church. The short story touches on essential concepts and uses excommunication to hammer the Pope's authority. Religion owned these people, and everyone was frightened by faith. Things go south in dark forests for these battle-hardened characters while paranoia and fear take root within the ranks of the mercenaries and at the backdrop: Houska Castle and the legends surrounding its mysterious grounds.
I enjoyed every moment. The characters were refreshing, and my only gripe was that it was no longer. Try reading this at night with creepy church choir music. You'll thank me afterwards!
You can only find this on Kindle. If you do not own a Kindle (you can download the app on your smartphone like I did and read it there)
I did not expect this to be so refreshing and good.
5/5
I was hungry, moody, anxious and in pain. So, I called my friend, and we spoke about two movies: the 13th Warrior and the Season of the Witch; remember that Hellmouth by Giles Kristian is similar to the two movies I've seen and mentioned. I was not too fond of the last film, but I hold the former in high esteem, and my affection for this short story steals the fire from the other two. (This is a few hours before the surgeons opened my knee). Somewhere in between, my friend talked about this work, which I believe was a new release at the time. Cool, I can finish it before going under, I thought. So I did. I read it and enjoyed it; then I reread it in 2022 with a clearer head.
And let me tell you, my last thoughts before the anaesthesia kicked in the operating theatre. There were naked women hanging upside down by the room's ceiling. I can picture it now and heard the heart monitor spike cause it was a very frightening thought. If the author can conjure a chilling vision then the author deserves such praise. I got cold all over, man! Afterwards, I kept thinking about it and of its excommunicated protagonist. This is in 2021.
In 2022, I wanted a quick-fun-and-engaging read, and I immediately thought about this book. Hellmouth terrified me, and that dark pit in the earth was calling out my name again. So I welcomed the calling with open arms, and yet again, I couldn't sleep because I love reading about the Devil! Kristian's prose carves each scene in meticulous detail, and I swear I could picture the worst of the worst because of it.
Before I read Hellmouth, I had never owned books by Giles Kristian, and I've only heard about him through other reviewers and understand he only writes Historical Fiction. I also own Where Blood Runs Cold and will read it soon. His new release is a thriller, so the author expands his influence. Cool, I enjoy a good thriller as much as horror. With Hellmouth, my opinion of the author has elevated with respect, for if his books are this fun and smitten with great prose, I'll be sure to read whatever other books he publishes. Giles Kristian can even write gestures so well in this story that it has left me open-mouthed. I can mention the scene where Galien converses with Cardinal Cesarini. It's one of my favourite scenes in this work.
Enter Hellmouth. This 52-page read hides what it is under the guise of a battle or skirmish, and while it manages to surprise you, it reveals some cool concepts about medieval warfare I never bothered to think about. I've learnt more about armour than in any other work. It is just perfect horror, people! That scene in the hall is disgusting and will remain with me indefinitely. The prose is engaging, and Kristian delivers each scene, with relish and originality, like a wordsmith.
The story is about mercenaries taking contracts in the Czech Republic, and later the party is quickly embroiled in an agreement with the church. The short story touches on essential concepts and uses excommunication to hammer the Pope's authority. Religion owned these people, and everyone was frightened by faith. Things go south in dark forests for these battle-hardened characters while paranoia and fear take root within the ranks of the mercenaries and at the backdrop: Houska Castle and the legends surrounding its mysterious grounds.
I enjoyed every moment. The characters were refreshing, and my only gripe was that it was no longer. Try reading this at night with creepy church choir music. You'll thank me afterwards!
You can only find this on Kindle. If you do not own a Kindle (you can download the app on your smartphone like I did and read it there)
I did not expect this to be so refreshing and good.
5/5
June 14, 2021
Wow, this one took me by pleasant surprise! It’s a novella but incredibly good and gory! It’s like a medieval ghost story and it roped me right in. This certainly makes me want to check out more of Giles Kristian’s work. It had certain redeeming parts that reminded me of Buehlman’s Between Two Fires. Highly recommend.
November 27, 2022
4.5/5
It's not for the squeamish, but it's amazing. Inspired by Houska castle in the Czech Republic, Hellmouth provides a medieval setting, bleak story, and horror. All in perfect proportions. At just 52 pages, it tells a complete, gritty tale. Highly recommended.
It's not for the squeamish, but it's amazing. Inspired by Houska castle in the Czech Republic, Hellmouth provides a medieval setting, bleak story, and horror. All in perfect proportions. At just 52 pages, it tells a complete, gritty tale. Highly recommended.
September 14, 2022
Fascinating horror story. I don't want to give anything away, but just know that it's short, bloody, and inspired by legend of an actual historical landmark in Europe.
February 19, 2025
a short historical fiction horror story!! fast paced, interesting, and sorta scary. the writing was great, i wish this was longer!!! i think i would’ve really enjoyed it. some of the scenes were so gorey and unforgettable
March 20, 2021
Knightmare
4.5/5
Many of my goodreads friends have read some Giles Kristian in they're 'read' shelves and have given his books stellar reviews. After reading this, I'm not sure why I waited so long to get to this one; its one of my favorite reads this year.
Kristian is known as a historical fiction writer and that may have been what held me back...I'm a dullard who needs that sff sweetner (kidding). The story is set in the 1300s in the confines of the Czech Republic wilderness, following a band of mercenaries to capture a heretic for mother church. Their search is a fascinating one, filled to the brim with evocative prose, mindful scene setting, creeping dread, black humor, well rendered action, mystery, and quality horror. In my mind, Giles deftly handles these various modes with masterful aplomb; not to mention its only around 50 pages. I need more!
The best comparison I can think of is blending of Dark Souls, Between Two Fire by Christopher Beuhlman, cultish aspects of Hereditary and Midsommer, and horror/mystery/dread found in Annihilation or The Witch. Very impressive and would LOVE for more to occur in this world.
As a side note, a large portion of the story is based off of the Houska Castle in the C. Republic which is said to be haunted and has some eerie history and folklore associated with it.
4.5/5
Many of my goodreads friends have read some Giles Kristian in they're 'read' shelves and have given his books stellar reviews. After reading this, I'm not sure why I waited so long to get to this one; its one of my favorite reads this year.
Kristian is known as a historical fiction writer and that may have been what held me back...I'm a dullard who needs that sff sweetner (kidding). The story is set in the 1300s in the confines of the Czech Republic wilderness, following a band of mercenaries to capture a heretic for mother church. Their search is a fascinating one, filled to the brim with evocative prose, mindful scene setting, creeping dread, black humor, well rendered action, mystery, and quality horror. In my mind, Giles deftly handles these various modes with masterful aplomb; not to mention its only around 50 pages. I need more!
The best comparison I can think of is blending of Dark Souls, Between Two Fire by Christopher Beuhlman, cultish aspects of Hereditary and Midsommer, and horror/mystery/dread found in Annihilation or The Witch. Very impressive and would LOVE for more to occur in this world.
As a side note, a large portion of the story is based off of the Houska Castle in the C. Republic which is said to be haunted and has some eerie history and folklore associated with it.
March 23, 2023
Hellmouth by Giles Kristian
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5*)
I found this short story here on Goodreads in the feed of one of my fellow friends. He was raving about it and I took a look and thought: „Let‘s give it a try!“ 😁 And boy am I glad I did…!! 😎👍🏻⭐️
Bohemia. 1370. A lost soul named Galien leads a band of hardened mercenaries on a mission for Mother Church. But in the dark forests of central Europe, a darker secret awaits. The men and women around Galien take us on an unnerving ride into fear and paranoia, bloodshed and redemption. 😈
That short story was probably the best short story I‘ve read so far. It was written rather beautiful with a lot of tension, strong emotions and really loveable characters. I‘m always amazed when an author is able to get you attached to people only within about 50 pages. It already starts with a banger and also the end was fantastic with a great twist. While the end is rather bloody, pretty brutal and riddled with some explicit depictions of sex (so watch your triggers) the beginning as much more quite and atmospheric. I can really recommend this short story to everyone that likes medieval horror and isn‘t easily startled. 😁👍🏻 Enjoy the ride. ⚔️🛡️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5*)
I found this short story here on Goodreads in the feed of one of my fellow friends. He was raving about it and I took a look and thought: „Let‘s give it a try!“ 😁 And boy am I glad I did…!! 😎👍🏻⭐️
Bohemia. 1370. A lost soul named Galien leads a band of hardened mercenaries on a mission for Mother Church. But in the dark forests of central Europe, a darker secret awaits. The men and women around Galien take us on an unnerving ride into fear and paranoia, bloodshed and redemption. 😈
That short story was probably the best short story I‘ve read so far. It was written rather beautiful with a lot of tension, strong emotions and really loveable characters. I‘m always amazed when an author is able to get you attached to people only within about 50 pages. It already starts with a banger and also the end was fantastic with a great twist. While the end is rather bloody, pretty brutal and riddled with some explicit depictions of sex (so watch your triggers) the beginning as much more quite and atmospheric. I can really recommend this short story to everyone that likes medieval horror and isn‘t easily startled. 😁👍🏻 Enjoy the ride. ⚔️🛡️
November 28, 2025
١١١ صفحة فقط.
الكاتب فنان. ابدع في وصف المشاهد الدموية والمرعبة.
النهاية اعتقد راح تبقى في ذاكرتي لمدة طويلة من الزمن. 🔥
في البداية سوالفهم كثيرة، بس ندخل الجو عند منتصف الكتاب.
الكاتب فنان. ابدع في وصف المشاهد الدموية والمرعبة.
النهاية اعتقد راح تبقى في ذاكرتي لمدة طويلة من الزمن. 🔥
في البداية سوالفهم كثيرة، بس ندخل الجو عند منتصف الكتاب.
May 4, 2025
Decent novella
February 27, 2022
Great lil grimdark novella. Kristian describes horrific, dark, and terrifying things in a beautiful way. I need to read more by this author, thought this was fantastic and would have read a full novel based on this story. Reminded me a lot of Between Two Fires, Berserk, and Dark Souls in the best ways.
February 25, 2021
A novella (available as a cheap ebook) by a new author to me, recommended by friends.
The story follows a band of mercenary knights in medieval Bohemia. It’s starts in an historical fiction mode, a bloody skirmish and drunken aftermath that familiarises you with the important characters, and is very well done. The next phase in the story is rather different - a task for the band with supernatural, occult aspects. A rather gruesome one at that!
I can see it’s appeal for modern horror readers. It’s atmospherically constructed, with plenty of tension, but the occult direction in the story wasn't quite to my taste.
A shame it was so brief a story as I’d only just got into the characters and their world, which I thought had more scope for exploration but I’ll have a look at this author’s back catalogue which I believe is historical fiction.
The story follows a band of mercenary knights in medieval Bohemia. It’s starts in an historical fiction mode, a bloody skirmish and drunken aftermath that familiarises you with the important characters, and is very well done. The next phase in the story is rather different - a task for the band with supernatural, occult aspects. A rather gruesome one at that!
I can see it’s appeal for modern horror readers. It’s atmospherically constructed, with plenty of tension, but the occult direction in the story wasn't quite to my taste.
A shame it was so brief a story as I’d only just got into the characters and their world, which I thought had more scope for exploration but I’ll have a look at this author’s back catalogue which I believe is historical fiction.
July 20, 2022
What starts as a good but familiar tale of a company of sell swords spilling blood for their keep, quickly turns into an unexpected tale of horror!!! Eeek!! I wasn't expecting that but enjoyed it all the same. Quick, well-written read.
December 2, 2025
Well now I need to deep dive Houska Castle
This was great but I wanted a little more of an ending than that. It was far too abrupt and didnt wrap things up at all.
This was great but I wanted a little more of an ending than that. It was far too abrupt and didnt wrap things up at all.
January 14, 2022
A Short Review for a Short Book
Chapter 1: What is a horror story?
Short answer? Basically a story that invokes a feeling of fear. Bring on the scares if you will. Did this book have that? I have to admit, yes.
I have read just one book by this author and as I said then, I'm saying now, this dude can write. There's just something about his ability to weave a good story even though I'm annoyed at the big horror reveal, not cos it wasn't good but because it is quite probably the horror trope I hate the most.
The story starts out in the most innocuous way. 🤔, maybe not so innocuous considering the character was painting quite violent art on their armour. Who is this man? We can only guess. I mean that literally.
Either ways, we are transported to 1370 Bohemia where a group of mercenary guards are laying waste to other people. Such was the casual violence of those times I believe. The Church ruled the state and stepping out of the favour of God according to Men of the Cloth was a terrible terrible fate.
Enter Galien in his words
"Fuck life and fuck God"
Obviously not a friend of the Church. When he is "persuaded" to help the Church solve a mystery, strange things abound on his journey for the truth.
Kristian, for his part weaves a convincing eerie, atmospheric, horrific story. You can't help but turn the pages hoping for answers and at the end closure. But such is the horror of short stories. You never really get answers.
A great story to be honest but sweet book gods, I have no closure, and now it feels like I'm missing some part of the story I will never know. EVER!! Depressing shit.
So while I am never/will never be in doubt about the efficacy of Kristian's writing, this book is taunting me with how unfinished it is. Bloody short stories.
Still a good read, without doubt though.
October 30, 2024
Visceral
October 24, 2025
أسعدني الحظ أن أكون من أوائل قراء ترجمة تلك النوفيللا، بقلم المترجم المصري الكبير هشام فهمي، وهي نوفيللا تستحق الإشادة حقًا، إذ أنني – من فرط إعجابي بها- رغبت لو كانت رواية بالحجم الكبير بعدد صفحات يقارب عدد صفحات روايات لعبة العروش التي أمتعنا هشام فهمي بترجمتها.
النوفيللا هي تجربتي الأولى مع الكاتب جايلز كريستيان، وبسببها صار كاتبًا مميزًا بالنسبة لي.
أحداث القصة كابوسية بإمتياز، في مهمة يخوضها فرقة من الفرسان بإيعاز من رجل دين، لمواجهة خطر مهرطق بإحدى القرى.
بدون الخوض في تفاصيل قد تحرق حبكة القصة، تؤول بهم رحلتهم إلى قلعة المهرطق التي بُنيت فوق إحدى الثغور المؤدية إلى الجحيم، تطبيقًا لاسم النوفيللا "ثغر الجحيم".
..
من المشاكل الطفيفة في ترجمة النوفيللا، هو وجود بعض الكلمات شديدة البلاغة التي اضطررت بسببها أن أوقف عملية القراءة للبحث عن معنى الكلمة، ربما كان من الممكن استخدام بعض المصطلحات الأخف وقعًا على القارئ والتي يمكنها إيصال نفس المعنى أيضًا.
..
تحذير محتمل بالحرق:
في النوفيللا بعض المشاهد التي أثارت حماستي ورعبي في الآن نفسه، مثل مشهد إلتهام بعض الخنازير لخنزير آخر حيًا، دون أن يُبدي الخنزير المأكول أي رد فعل لما يحدث، وهو مشهد سيزور كوابيسي حتمًا.
كذلك مشهد قتل أحد الفرسان لنفسه بغرز سكين في رأسه من الذقن، بعد ما رآه من أهوال شنيعة.
ومشهد جثث الضحايا المُعلقة من سقف إحدى القاعات، واضطرار الفرسان للعبور وسطهم في خوف ورعب شديدين.
وبالطبع، المشهد الأكثر هولًا، وهو اكتشاف "جاليان" لحقيقة المأدبة الشيطانية في النهاية، ولا داعي للتفسير، فمن قرأ النوفيللا سيفهم ما أعنيه.
النوفيللا هي تجربتي الأولى مع الكاتب جايلز كريستيان، وبسببها صار كاتبًا مميزًا بالنسبة لي.
أحداث القصة كابوسية بإمتياز، في مهمة يخوضها فرقة من الفرسان بإيعاز من رجل دين، لمواجهة خطر مهرطق بإحدى القرى.
بدون الخوض في تفاصيل قد تحرق حبكة القصة، تؤول بهم رحلتهم إلى قلعة المهرطق التي بُنيت فوق إحدى الثغور المؤدية إلى الجحيم، تطبيقًا لاسم النوفيللا "ثغر الجحيم".
..
من المشاكل الطفيفة في ترجمة النوفيللا، هو وجود بعض الكلمات شديدة البلاغة التي اضطررت بسببها أن أوقف عملية القراءة للبحث عن معنى الكلمة، ربما كان من الممكن استخدام بعض المصطلحات الأخف وقعًا على القارئ والتي يمكنها إيصال نفس المعنى أيضًا.
..
تحذير محتمل بالحرق:
في النوفيللا بعض المشاهد التي أثارت حماستي ورعبي في الآن نفسه، مثل مشهد إلتهام بعض الخنازير لخنزير آخر حيًا، دون أن يُبدي الخنزير المأكول أي رد فعل لما يحدث، وهو مشهد سيزور كوابيسي حتمًا.
كذلك مشهد قتل أحد الفرسان لنفسه بغرز سكين في رأسه من الذقن، بعد ما رآه من أهوال شنيعة.
ومشهد جثث الضحايا المُعلقة من سقف إحدى القاعات، واضطرار الفرسان للعبور وسطهم في خوف ورعب شديدين.
وبالطبع، المشهد الأكثر هولًا، وهو اكتشاف "جاليان" لحقيقة المأدبة الشيطانية في النهاية، ولا داعي للتفسير، فمن قرأ النوفيللا سيفهم ما أعنيه.
November 17, 2021
After reading another book called "Between Two Fires" I wanted more just like it: books that come from a dark place, horror and gory, set in some medieval type of setting, plague and blood and sin and gritty writing. HELLMOUTH was recommended to me and since it is a very short story I figured why not?
WOW! What an amazing story...it was everything I wanted and more. It is set in that dark and plague like medieval setting and it is gritty, gory, and absolutely poetic. You end up loving the characters even though the story is so short. You want more!
Giles Kristian is known for this genre of book and this is a great book to read to get introduced into a sub-genre that is absolutely delightful to read! I have yet to read any other works by Kristian, but I am so excited to get my hands on them!
If you're really into things like The Witcher (videogame or show) you will love this book...it is all the stuff you want when you think of a gritty medieval type book! Definitely something you can read in a few hours and WORTH IT!
WOW! What an amazing story...it was everything I wanted and more. It is set in that dark and plague like medieval setting and it is gritty, gory, and absolutely poetic. You end up loving the characters even though the story is so short. You want more!
Giles Kristian is known for this genre of book and this is a great book to read to get introduced into a sub-genre that is absolutely delightful to read! I have yet to read any other works by Kristian, but I am so excited to get my hands on them!
If you're really into things like The Witcher (videogame or show) you will love this book...it is all the stuff you want when you think of a gritty medieval type book! Definitely something you can read in a few hours and WORTH IT!
February 11, 2023
I keep going back and forth on what to rate this. I kind of hated it and kind of loved it. I think I'll stick with 3 for now, but that might change.
I almost stopped reading this a few times, but I'm glad I pushed through the beginning. It's short, and although I didn't enjoy the first half, the last half was so messed up that it ended up winning me over. I'm not crazy about anything with preachy Christian themes, but I do love a horror book that can manage to creep me out like this one did. Reminds me of Jirel of Joiry, specifically "Black God's Kiss", which I hesitantly recommend if you liked Hellmouth. It's also weird and creepy and about a Hell hole, but the writing won't appeal to everyone.
Anyway. I don't love some of the writing choices made here, and honestly, I feel like the last few pages were kind of a let down, but it was a good story overall. I actually found the history lesson in the author's note to be super compelling, maybe more so than the book itself. Worth checking out.
I almost stopped reading this a few times, but I'm glad I pushed through the beginning. It's short, and although I didn't enjoy the first half, the last half was so messed up that it ended up winning me over. I'm not crazy about anything with preachy Christian themes, but I do love a horror book that can manage to creep me out like this one did. Reminds me of Jirel of Joiry, specifically "Black God's Kiss", which I hesitantly recommend if you liked Hellmouth. It's also weird and creepy and about a Hell hole, but the writing won't appeal to everyone.
Anyway. I don't love some of the writing choices made here, and honestly, I feel like the last few pages were kind of a let down, but it was a good story overall. I actually found the history lesson in the author's note to be super compelling, maybe more so than the book itself. Worth checking out.
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