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Tales of Mhurghast #1
Gothgul Hollow
A Warhammer Horror Novel
Scholar. Sorceress. Killer. Priest. Four people divided by their secrets and lies, bound together by horror, must unite their strengths to unpick a diabolical mystery to which they have but one incomprehensible clue – a single word: Mhurghast.
READ IT BECAUSE
Glimpse what life looks like in Shyish, the Realm of Death, as an ancient family struggles with their place in the Mortal Realms. As it turns out, sometimes you must save yourselves.
THE STORY
The Hollow. A lonely Shyishan town, obscured amongst wild moorland, inhabited by folk of vigilant routine. What remains of the once illustrious Gothghul family endures season upon season of monastic isolation in their castle on the hill. Aaric Gothghul, made callous by loss, shuts himself in his study and broods over arcane texts, while his strange and formidable daughter wanders the forests alone.
But when the town is threatened by a spate of sinister manifestations, the quiet formality of their days end. Worse still, the upheaval disturbs a terrible family secret – a chilling memory that Aaric has kept buried for twenty-five years. Now, father and daughter must set aside their differences and search for answers to an ancient curse that is somehow linked to their past. Aided by a straight-talking sharpshooter and a shrewd man of faith, they seek to fathom the forces that assail the Hollow.
Scholar. Sorceress. Killer. Priest. Four people divided by their secrets and lies, bound together by horror, must unite their strengths to unpick a diabolical mystery to which they have but one incomprehensible clue – a single word: Mhurghast.
READ IT BECAUSE
Glimpse what life looks like in Shyish, the Realm of Death, as an ancient family struggles with their place in the Mortal Realms. As it turns out, sometimes you must save yourselves.
THE STORY
The Hollow. A lonely Shyishan town, obscured amongst wild moorland, inhabited by folk of vigilant routine. What remains of the once illustrious Gothghul family endures season upon season of monastic isolation in their castle on the hill. Aaric Gothghul, made callous by loss, shuts himself in his study and broods over arcane texts, while his strange and formidable daughter wanders the forests alone.
But when the town is threatened by a spate of sinister manifestations, the quiet formality of their days end. Worse still, the upheaval disturbs a terrible family secret – a chilling memory that Aaric has kept buried for twenty-five years. Now, father and daughter must set aside their differences and search for answers to an ancient curse that is somehow linked to their past. Aided by a straight-talking sharpshooter and a shrewd man of faith, they seek to fathom the forces that assail the Hollow.
271 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 5, 2022
36 people are currently reading
420 people want to read
About the author
Anna Stephens
30 books695 followersAnna Stephens is the UK-based author of the Godblind trilogy - Goblind, Darksoul, Bloodchild - and The Songs of the Drowned trilogy - The Stone Knife, The Jaguar Path, The Dark Feather. Anna also writes for Black Library and Marvel Comics.
You can sign up to Anna's newsletter here: https://anna-stephens.com/get-in-touch/
You can sign up to Anna's newsletter here: https://anna-stephens.com/get-in-touch/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
March 23, 2022
Wow! I got legitimate chills from the ending (not of the creepy variety, but chills nonetheless)! To say more on that ruins the fun, but what I can say is that I am looking forward to the next book in this Mhurgast saga! Stevens brings such a good touch to the gothic setting and brings a much needed touch to Warhammer fiction. This mystery at the heart of the book us compelling and our protagonist interesting enough to carry our interest. Also, a note on romance to the Black Library. Please include more: it makes your characters way more interesting and DOES NOT take away from your settings. Stevens does a wonderful job here and I cannot wait for the next one!
March 16, 2022
The quality of BL has really gone up in recent times and this is a beautiful example of it. It has a interesting story with a great pace. It had interesting characters who see interesting development. But most importantly of all, you can read this as your first Warhammer book or just as a good fantasy horror book and not miss out because you’re unfamiliar with the universe.
If you’re interested in death magic and the average life of “bounty hunters” in age or sigmar, or if you’re just looking for a good adventuring novel in a a horror fantasy setting, then I think you will enjoy this book.
It does play into to the larger world of Warhammer, but it does so in a way that will only tease the bigger picture to people that are unfamiliar with it and also in a way that will make it easy for lore people who turn out not to like the book, to be capable of catching up on the quite significant developments.
I listened to the audio version, and the performance was just stunning, adding a lot to the horror atmosphere. Though not quite relaxing.
If you’re interested in death magic and the average life of “bounty hunters” in age or sigmar, or if you’re just looking for a good adventuring novel in a a horror fantasy setting, then I think you will enjoy this book.
It does play into to the larger world of Warhammer, but it does so in a way that will only tease the bigger picture to people that are unfamiliar with it and also in a way that will make it easy for lore people who turn out not to like the book, to be capable of catching up on the quite significant developments.
I listened to the audio version, and the performance was just stunning, adding a lot to the horror atmosphere. Though not quite relaxing.
October 1, 2022
It’s not for me. That doesn’t mean it’s bad. I liked the action scenes, and Edrea was hot. But I like my horror fast, plotty, and bloody. And this was mostly “walking around a castle and occasionally there’s a spook” horror. Which isn’t for me. Everything in the book felt like it took twice as many pages as it should have, and a great deal of the book is given over to arguments that I thought were boring and repetitious. I also found the ending and explanation for what was going on pretty unsatisfying. Most of these problems just come from this book being a pretty standard gothic horror novel and me not liking gothic horror, though. If you like warhammer and gothics, this is gonna make you real happy. I may read other books in the series when they come out, though. I am curious where this goes, even if I didn’t enjoy reading it much.
March 15, 2022
That rating's probably slightly higher than it should be thanks to the SPOILER of SPOILER SPOILER. Arguably one of the greatest literary SPOILERs since SPOILER's SPOILER SPOILER!
March 26, 2022
Dear Anna Stephens, you'd better be working on the sequel:)
November 3, 2022
A solid 4 stars. While my knowledge of the Canon of this universe is still small what I do know made the ending all that much more exciting. I don't know if THIS book will get a sequel but it sure was set up for a sequel. I genuinely hope it does and I'll be buying it the day it comes if it does.
January 29, 2025
The audiobook was beautifully narrated by Helen Keeley; I was really taken by the vibrancy of her performance. Generally, I tend to struggle with audiobooks due to the narration not capturing my attention, making it far too easy to zone out, but Helen was dynamic and enthralling, so I’d certainly recommend checking it out—side note, but I was delighted to discover that Helen was the voice of Nightsong in Baldur’s Gate 3!
Gothghul Hollow presents a macabre mystery that takes place in a gritty gothic setting, one filled with spellcraft, rituals and, as you’d expect from the Realm of Death, well, death. As I anticipated from a Warhammer novel, the story was packed with brilliantly written action scenes where the energetic descriptions really served to bring the bloodshed to life. A welcome surprise however, was the almost gentleness of the character writing, Anna Stephens managed to inscribe characters that were both powerful and emotive, finding strength in their ties to each other.
As someone still fairly new to the expansive and often intimidating world of Warhammer lore, I found this didn’t detract from my enjoyment and I felt an embarrassing level of excitement at recognising references here and there. I’d even recommend Gothghul Hollow to readers with no knowledge of Warhammer, simply as a solid fantasy horror read.
Gothghul Hollow presents a macabre mystery that takes place in a gritty gothic setting, one filled with spellcraft, rituals and, as you’d expect from the Realm of Death, well, death. As I anticipated from a Warhammer novel, the story was packed with brilliantly written action scenes where the energetic descriptions really served to bring the bloodshed to life. A welcome surprise however, was the almost gentleness of the character writing, Anna Stephens managed to inscribe characters that were both powerful and emotive, finding strength in their ties to each other.
As someone still fairly new to the expansive and often intimidating world of Warhammer lore, I found this didn’t detract from my enjoyment and I felt an embarrassing level of excitement at recognising references here and there. I’d even recommend Gothghul Hollow to readers with no knowledge of Warhammer, simply as a solid fantasy horror read.
February 6, 2022
Me gusta mucho cómo escribe la autora (su novella en Covens of Blood fue mi favorita), pero la trama de este libro me ha dejado algo fría. Los personajes y sus relaciones la salvan un poco, sin embargo. Tiene un giro final que augura continuación, habrá que leer las novelas futuras.
December 18, 2022
While well written, I just couldn't pay attention while reading this. Originally, I was going to give it four-stars for decently well-written prose, the weird and unsatisfying cliff hanger demotes it to 3-stars.
September 10, 2023
Received as an ARC from Netgalley:
This was absolutely outstanding. I adored the writing and the characters.
A tight gothic thrillride with monsters, ghosts, and interdimensional beings.
Heavy influence from old school Hammer horror films with a magic system that is mysterious but makes sense at the same time. A hard line to walk.
I've never read any Warhammer fantasy books before and knew next to nothing about the world but that didn't prevent me from understanding the story. A great introduction.
Warhammer Horror continues to be outstanding.
This was absolutely outstanding. I adored the writing and the characters.
A tight gothic thrillride with monsters, ghosts, and interdimensional beings.
Heavy influence from old school Hammer horror films with a magic system that is mysterious but makes sense at the same time. A hard line to walk.
I've never read any Warhammer fantasy books before and knew next to nothing about the world but that didn't prevent me from understanding the story. A great introduction.
Warhammer Horror continues to be outstanding.
August 3, 2022
Outstanding read. When they initially announced the Warhammer Horror line, I was a little skeptical; after all, outside of a few matchups, the elements of horror are ever present in the series. Yet this book takes advantage of the move away from grand battles and immortal champions, putting us in the shoes of some very human people dealing with a truly horrifying unknown. Characters and their motivations are relatable, we don't suffer from fool headed players trying to upset everyone and spiral everything into chaos just because. There is room for a bit of everything in here and it delivers on it, from humor to romance, and even still able to work in the grisly bits of violence so prominently tied to the IP. Named characters genuinely feel like they are in peril throughout the story and aren't guaranteed survival simply because they are prominently featured. Particularly, I really dug how the writer set up a growing mystery through the first half of the book, and then proceeded to lore dump a reasonable amount through the third section before compelling you into the fourth for the final revelations. I could perhaps see some minor complaints regarding the nature of the ending, but that may just be a personal hang up as it was not how I preferred things would've ended, and it doesn't change the fact that the preceding 12 chapters were all nearly mesmerizing. Really enjoyed this one.
November 6, 2022
I really wanted to like this book. I felt the narrative was actually pretty interesting and mysterious and held my interest up to just before what I would consider the climax. However, I felt the execution of the climax and the conclusion of the story to be rather lackluster. All the details given to us in the majority of the book leading up to this promised something exciting. Something unimaginable with shocking answers, perhaps.
Ultimately, what we do get doesn't seem like anything too irregular for the setting and we are left with as many questions at the end as we had at the beginning. Perhaps more.
I just felt like we could've gotten a bit more in this, and a little more resolution, especially as this is a full length novel at roughly 270 pages. The book also seems to imply, only at the end as far as I could see, that this would be the first in a series.
Perhaps it was expectations that brought this book down for me the most. It promised horror, and what seemed like a self contained tale. Instead it felt more like a mystery novel set in a grim setting that's created with the intention of a series to come. If you've never read Warhammer fiction or know very little to nothing about the Age of Sigmar setting, then perhaps this works as horror.
In all, I was pretty disappointed in this and the last 40 or so pages I just had to power through. Maybe this will appeal to others more. I don't think it's bad necessarily, it just wasn't what I thought it was going to be.
Ultimately, what we do get doesn't seem like anything too irregular for the setting and we are left with as many questions at the end as we had at the beginning. Perhaps more.
I just felt like we could've gotten a bit more in this, and a little more resolution, especially as this is a full length novel at roughly 270 pages. The book also seems to imply, only at the end as far as I could see, that this would be the first in a series.
Perhaps it was expectations that brought this book down for me the most. It promised horror, and what seemed like a self contained tale. Instead it felt more like a mystery novel set in a grim setting that's created with the intention of a series to come. If you've never read Warhammer fiction or know very little to nothing about the Age of Sigmar setting, then perhaps this works as horror.
In all, I was pretty disappointed in this and the last 40 or so pages I just had to power through. Maybe this will appeal to others more. I don't think it's bad necessarily, it just wasn't what I thought it was going to be.
December 31, 2022
I read this on my partners (who is extremely into Warhammer) recommendation as I love gothic horror, vampires and hot sharpshooters.
As a total outsider to the lore I still rate this...
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Anna Stephens created a small world in the town of Gothgul Hollow and it grew endlessly larger throughout the story. The lore was super appealing and quick to get your head around, even Warhammer uses much-loved tropes!
The characters in this story are true perfection. Edrea and Runar's chemistry had me craving more. Edrea as a strong female protagonist in this story made the world of Warhammer relatable and empowering. Tiberius and Aaric felt so well developed, I was so eager to learn more about their past and in turn the Warhammer world.
As much as it's a monster story, it's also a love story. A story about the love of a parent, a story about young love and the love we share with friends. And, the devastation of loss.
Bring this novel into the mainstream shelves at book stores and you'll have thousands of more Warhammer fans.
As a total outsider to the lore I still rate this...
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Anna Stephens created a small world in the town of Gothgul Hollow and it grew endlessly larger throughout the story. The lore was super appealing and quick to get your head around, even Warhammer uses much-loved tropes!
The characters in this story are true perfection. Edrea and Runar's chemistry had me craving more. Edrea as a strong female protagonist in this story made the world of Warhammer relatable and empowering. Tiberius and Aaric felt so well developed, I was so eager to learn more about their past and in turn the Warhammer world.
As much as it's a monster story, it's also a love story. A story about the love of a parent, a story about young love and the love we share with friends. And, the devastation of loss.
Bring this novel into the mainstream shelves at book stores and you'll have thousands of more Warhammer fans.
January 29, 2024
Gothgul Hollow caught my interest as the origin of the Mhurghast, a monster I first Encountered in Castle of Blood by C.L. Werner. While this story just dangles that mystery in front of your face, we still get an interesting plot and compelling characters.
I think the greatest strength of the story is the atmosphere, which is a direct result of solid characters and a well developed setting. Gothgul Hollow is also the name of the estate where much of the story plays out. It is a moody old building concealing secrets and hazards, a direct reflection of the people that inhabit it.
I found the haunting of the manor as the most compelling aspect of the story. As we experience more memories of the family and as the history of the specter is revealed, the pressure escalates, the veil thins. The interactions between the living and the dead had me engaged in the mystery and dreading the arrival of the entity.
The characters are strongly portrayed to the point I dislike certain aspects of their traits but overall found myself drawn to them. Lady Edrea, powerful sorceress and heir to Gothgul Hollow. I understand her pain, but the way she expressed her loneliness came at the worst times. I found myself questioning her sanity once or twice. And her Father, Aaric did not handle his heartbreak well either. I really liked Tiberius and Runar, dependable men, though the priest had his demons as well.
There is an incredible amount of detailed description when it comes to magic and ritual work. I personally enjoyed the complex witchcraft. It reminded me a bit of the witches from The Malazan Book of the Fallen, where you see interactions of the earth, the spirit and a focus. Fantastic.
I have one criticism, if you can call it that. While the family drama is relatable, it occasionally feels like it gets in the way of the plot. Once or twice I wanted the haunting to progress and felt like we were hung up on emotional baggage. Even as I write it, I can see how one naturally leads to the other, but I guess I just wasn't a fan.
I think the greatest strength of the story is the atmosphere, which is a direct result of solid characters and a well developed setting. Gothgul Hollow is also the name of the estate where much of the story plays out. It is a moody old building concealing secrets and hazards, a direct reflection of the people that inhabit it.
I found the haunting of the manor as the most compelling aspect of the story. As we experience more memories of the family and as the history of the specter is revealed, the pressure escalates, the veil thins. The interactions between the living and the dead had me engaged in the mystery and dreading the arrival of the entity.
The characters are strongly portrayed to the point I dislike certain aspects of their traits but overall found myself drawn to them. Lady Edrea, powerful sorceress and heir to Gothgul Hollow. I understand her pain, but the way she expressed her loneliness came at the worst times. I found myself questioning her sanity once or twice. And her Father, Aaric did not handle his heartbreak well either. I really liked Tiberius and Runar, dependable men, though the priest had his demons as well.
There is an incredible amount of detailed description when it comes to magic and ritual work. I personally enjoyed the complex witchcraft. It reminded me a bit of the witches from The Malazan Book of the Fallen, where you see interactions of the earth, the spirit and a focus. Fantastic.
I have one criticism, if you can call it that. While the family drama is relatable, it occasionally feels like it gets in the way of the plot. Once or twice I wanted the haunting to progress and felt like we were hung up on emotional baggage. Even as I write it, I can see how one naturally leads to the other, but I guess I just wasn't a fan.
September 10, 2024
Warhammer is a huge fandom and has a vast array of tie in media via the Black Library. I have to say while I am a fan I had not heard of this horror Warhammer novel, by Anna Stephens no less so I was more than excited when I was given a chance to review it.
Now while I have not read all of the novels in the Age of Sigmar series I am happy to report that this can be read standalone. Yes it may help to know a bit of the world and history but it’s not necessary to enjoy the novel at all. I will also say that I am a bit of a Stephens fan so I knew I would likely enjoy this one and I was not disappointed.
There is a perfect mix, for me at least, of horror, action and characters. That’s to say we get characters who are fleshed out and each have their own motivations and secrets. We have enough action and horror to keep me invested as well. As a lover of both fantasy and horror I adore when these are merged together and I have to say Stephens knows what she is doing.
As with some fantasies there is a lot going on but I didn’t find it too hard to follow or keep up with at all. I think this is perfect for fans new and old of Warhammer and particularly horror fans. But I do also think this can appeal to those who enjoy fantasy or horror and have not yet ventured into the Black Library.
As always thank you to Black Library for the copy to review. My review is always honest and truthful.
Now while I have not read all of the novels in the Age of Sigmar series I am happy to report that this can be read standalone. Yes it may help to know a bit of the world and history but it’s not necessary to enjoy the novel at all. I will also say that I am a bit of a Stephens fan so I knew I would likely enjoy this one and I was not disappointed.
There is a perfect mix, for me at least, of horror, action and characters. That’s to say we get characters who are fleshed out and each have their own motivations and secrets. We have enough action and horror to keep me invested as well. As a lover of both fantasy and horror I adore when these are merged together and I have to say Stephens knows what she is doing.
As with some fantasies there is a lot going on but I didn’t find it too hard to follow or keep up with at all. I think this is perfect for fans new and old of Warhammer and particularly horror fans. But I do also think this can appeal to those who enjoy fantasy or horror and have not yet ventured into the Black Library.
As always thank you to Black Library for the copy to review. My review is always honest and truthful.
March 17, 2022
Sinopsis Corta:
Un pueblo es acechado por una bestia, pero es apenas el inicio de un misterio relacionado con el misterio de una acaudalada familia. La hija Edrea y su padre viudo tendrán que revolver dolorosos recuerdos familiares para encontrar las pistas y resolver un enigma que ha acabado con incontables vidas.
Reseña completa con resumen y explicaciones en:
https://muchomas.live/2022/03/17/goth...
Rating:
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5
Inicialmente lo iba a dejar porque no se sentía muy Black Library. El género parecía más un young adult, pero desde la mitad de la novela se puso mejor y mejor. Al final termino siendo entretenida y vale la pena leerla, sobre todo si te animas a leer una serie de libros en vez de uno solo.
Opinión sin spoiler:
Está muy buena la historia, a excepción de algunas personalidades muy cursis y situaciones muy cliché que no son en absoluto comunes en Black Library. Es una mujer la autora en vez de un hombre, lo cual también es inusual. Quizá eso tenga que ver… pero con eso no quiero decir que sea malo sino que se siente diferente…
A mitad del libro todo va mejorando y la tensión va creciendo. Recomendaría leer los primeros capítulos rápido porque los sentí innecesariamente largos y detallados en cosas que ni van al caso. Pero cuando comiencen a nombrar a Mhurghast, atento a cada palabra. Se pone interesante.
Un pueblo es acechado por una bestia, pero es apenas el inicio de un misterio relacionado con el misterio de una acaudalada familia. La hija Edrea y su padre viudo tendrán que revolver dolorosos recuerdos familiares para encontrar las pistas y resolver un enigma que ha acabado con incontables vidas.
Reseña completa con resumen y explicaciones en:
https://muchomas.live/2022/03/17/goth...
Rating:
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5
Inicialmente lo iba a dejar porque no se sentía muy Black Library. El género parecía más un young adult, pero desde la mitad de la novela se puso mejor y mejor. Al final termino siendo entretenida y vale la pena leerla, sobre todo si te animas a leer una serie de libros en vez de uno solo.
Opinión sin spoiler:
Está muy buena la historia, a excepción de algunas personalidades muy cursis y situaciones muy cliché que no son en absoluto comunes en Black Library. Es una mujer la autora en vez de un hombre, lo cual también es inusual. Quizá eso tenga que ver… pero con eso no quiero decir que sea malo sino que se siente diferente…
A mitad del libro todo va mejorando y la tensión va creciendo. Recomendaría leer los primeros capítulos rápido porque los sentí innecesariamente largos y detallados en cosas que ni van al caso. Pero cuando comiencen a nombrar a Mhurghast, atento a cada palabra. Se pone interesante.
June 28, 2023
An alright piece of Warhammer horror, but one that isn't memorable on its own. It is the first book in the Mhurghast series. There's a lot to like in the book, but it's clear that it's focused more on setting up the rest of the series than it is telling the main story.
The story itself is alright. A beast is stalking Gothgul Hollow, and the main characters are trying to put an end to it. A good portion of the page count is dedicated to flashbacks that provide lore and context for the events. As such it feels like the characters don't really accomplish much themselves, outside of the final climax.
Still, while my feelings on the plot itself are lukewarm, the characters are all great, and the ending left me excited for where the series would go. The last few sentences alone justified my reading of the novel.
Now, I did end up reading the second book before this one (due to bad marketing showing that this series even exists). While it is a lot more enjoyable and is one of the more enjoyable horror books I've read, it doesn't feel like a direct sequel to this one. Apart from Aaric, the other characters don't return, and the climax of Gothgul Hollow is left up in the air and never mentioned or resolved. As such, it's hard to tell where the Mhurghast series is going and how worth it it'll be by the end.
The story itself is alright. A beast is stalking Gothgul Hollow, and the main characters are trying to put an end to it. A good portion of the page count is dedicated to flashbacks that provide lore and context for the events. As such it feels like the characters don't really accomplish much themselves, outside of the final climax.
Still, while my feelings on the plot itself are lukewarm, the characters are all great, and the ending left me excited for where the series would go. The last few sentences alone justified my reading of the novel.
Now, I did end up reading the second book before this one (due to bad marketing showing that this series even exists). While it is a lot more enjoyable and is one of the more enjoyable horror books I've read, it doesn't feel like a direct sequel to this one. Apart from Aaric, the other characters don't return, and the climax of Gothgul Hollow is left up in the air and never mentioned or resolved. As such, it's hard to tell where the Mhurghast series is going and how worth it it'll be by the end.
May 7, 2022
A dark and forbidding setting. A darkly Gothic environment dripping with atmosphere. A deadly secret that holds power of life and death of those who dwell in Gothgul Hollow*.
Gothgul Hollow is a love letter to a certain type of Warhammer, the proto-setting of Drachenfels, or Orfeo the Poet. The setting alone bleeds the eurogoth sensations of 2nd and 3rd Ed Warhammer Fantasy Battle, without ever veering in parody or outright plagiarism. Much can be said of the writing style of Anna Stephens, who manages to capture the soul of Kim Newman but very much keeping to her own voice.
And what a voice it is.
As we pan the camera back over the chapters we discover a mystery of a “beast” that hunts and kills the inhabitants of The Hollow As that story gathers steam and enters a steady tread, we become aware of a second story, a tale of disconnect between father and daughter, which intertwines into multiple false leads and strange avenues before setting a course that leads to an ending I wish I had seen coming, and led me to wishing to charge around in a human-sized hamster ball with excitement for what is to come.
Read the full review: https://www.thefluffenhammer.com/arti...
Gothgul Hollow is a love letter to a certain type of Warhammer, the proto-setting of Drachenfels, or Orfeo the Poet. The setting alone bleeds the eurogoth sensations of 2nd and 3rd Ed Warhammer Fantasy Battle, without ever veering in parody or outright plagiarism. Much can be said of the writing style of Anna Stephens, who manages to capture the soul of Kim Newman but very much keeping to her own voice.
And what a voice it is.
As we pan the camera back over the chapters we discover a mystery of a “beast” that hunts and kills the inhabitants of The Hollow As that story gathers steam and enters a steady tread, we become aware of a second story, a tale of disconnect between father and daughter, which intertwines into multiple false leads and strange avenues before setting a course that leads to an ending I wish I had seen coming, and led me to wishing to charge around in a human-sized hamster ball with excitement for what is to come.
Read the full review: https://www.thefluffenhammer.com/arti...
October 12, 2023
Mysteries surround a creature that sucks the essence of an individual and brings terror to a region. It will be up to one titled lady to find the source and defeat it while discovering secrets that surround her own life.
I'm not a big horror fan, but the description of this story intrigued me. I love paranormal stories that house mystery. This story fit the bill perfectly. The writing was intense and brings to life the story as though one is actually there. Spellbinding could be the perfect word for this as I found myself unable to stop reading. I had to go on to the next chapter and then the next to see what would happen in the next few pages. Would they find it? What was it? Why did it….? Well, that is all I can say on that without noting spoilers.
Many times, I read with a pounding heart and swore I felt the sweep of an unknown entity as it passed by me. The imagery is nearly flawless as the author brings to life an intricate plot as well as strong characters. The main character has the hurt soul of a child but the determination of a powerful sorceress. The supporting characters are flawed but have strong beliefs that drive them forward and stand beside her.
A great read that I highly suggest if you like intense stories with magic and mystery.
I'm not a big horror fan, but the description of this story intrigued me. I love paranormal stories that house mystery. This story fit the bill perfectly. The writing was intense and brings to life the story as though one is actually there. Spellbinding could be the perfect word for this as I found myself unable to stop reading. I had to go on to the next chapter and then the next to see what would happen in the next few pages. Would they find it? What was it? Why did it….? Well, that is all I can say on that without noting spoilers.
Many times, I read with a pounding heart and swore I felt the sweep of an unknown entity as it passed by me. The imagery is nearly flawless as the author brings to life an intricate plot as well as strong characters. The main character has the hurt soul of a child but the determination of a powerful sorceress. The supporting characters are flawed but have strong beliefs that drive them forward and stand beside her.
A great read that I highly suggest if you like intense stories with magic and mystery.
May 19, 2023
What a letdown. Gothgull Hollow started strong and I was enjoying reading it, but when the second needless fight happened, I lost my interest. I originally received a copy through NetGalley but I also bought a paperback edition, which I read for the majority.
Now, what’s so very wrong about this novel? Although it’s 300 pages long, very little happens. The story is comprised of long paragraphs describing fights, rituals, or even dialogue in far too much detail. Scenes are repeated. For instance, two fights happen with the same creature where the outcome is exactly the same, and then two characters chase a ghost right after another. I’m not sure if the author was aware of that, but surely an editor should have noticed?
I also didn’t like that characters were talking to themselves or that the glorious, amazing fighter called Hephzibah, his wife, “Zib”. The horror element mainly relied on gore and the book wasn’t “chilling” (as promised in the blurb). It was more of a fantasy story with a very small target audience. I’m not a huge Warhammer fan, but I do know some things about the universe, and I was sure I was going to like this novel. What a shame!
2 stars
Now, what’s so very wrong about this novel? Although it’s 300 pages long, very little happens. The story is comprised of long paragraphs describing fights, rituals, or even dialogue in far too much detail. Scenes are repeated. For instance, two fights happen with the same creature where the outcome is exactly the same, and then two characters chase a ghost right after another. I’m not sure if the author was aware of that, but surely an editor should have noticed?
I also didn’t like that characters were talking to themselves or that the glorious, amazing fighter called Hephzibah, his wife, “Zib”. The horror element mainly relied on gore and the book wasn’t “chilling” (as promised in the blurb). It was more of a fantasy story with a very small target audience. I’m not a huge Warhammer fan, but I do know some things about the universe, and I was sure I was going to like this novel. What a shame!
2 stars
May 16, 2024
When a merchant decides not to take cover after hearing the hell hound the canine beast soon has him and his sights even though he hears gunshots and people running from Gothle manner by the time they appear it will be too late for the merchant.When they bring the merchants corpse into the manner Edrea Gothle was curious to investigate the body despite her father Eric‘s chastising. He was always overprotective of her but this time Edrea Will seek her own answers and in the end she will know her long lost mother much better but will not like everything she finds. While this is going on a fierce Hunter and his group is all trying to find the hell hound and by the time it’s over not all of them will see it till the end. If you like Gothic para-normal mysteries with a little necromancy then you will definitely love the story I read it a while back and yesterday wanted to read it again I was so happy to find out there’s other books. This is a series and I cannot wait to read the next one. I want to thank the publisher for my free ARC copy via NetGalley please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
July 29, 2024
I could NOT put this book down!
I haven’t read any of the Warhammer stories before and I was pleasantly surprised.
Anna has the right amount of detail but with story progression so you feel like you’re there and can imagine it but you’re not reading a page long description on one item
She most definitely portrays the monsters, characters and action in a way where you can visualise them which I love
With this I absolutely love the characters, especially Runar, and just want to see what’s next for everyone
The story line itself is captivating and kept me hooked from start to end
She even does the flashbacks well and integrates them with the present in a way you don’t get lost where a lot of writers struggle with this
I love anything supernatural/ fantasy and this was a hit - it’s made me want to read more of her books for sure
If you’re looking for a good supernatural book with a great story like and easy to read yet descriptive writing, I’d highly recommend
I haven’t read any of the Warhammer stories before and I was pleasantly surprised.
Anna has the right amount of detail but with story progression so you feel like you’re there and can imagine it but you’re not reading a page long description on one item
She most definitely portrays the monsters, characters and action in a way where you can visualise them which I love
With this I absolutely love the characters, especially Runar, and just want to see what’s next for everyone
The story line itself is captivating and kept me hooked from start to end
She even does the flashbacks well and integrates them with the present in a way you don’t get lost where a lot of writers struggle with this
I love anything supernatural/ fantasy and this was a hit - it’s made me want to read more of her books for sure
If you’re looking for a good supernatural book with a great story like and easy to read yet descriptive writing, I’d highly recommend
August 29, 2022
In the sweltering humidity of summer, this was an excellent antidote to my woes. The first half ripped me from the heat and took me to cold and damp moors, a gothic manor and its whispering hallways, and a growing sense of dread. To be honest, I could have read another 100 pages of this. It was so atmospheric! if you grew up with Hammer Horror, I am confident you'll enjoy the book as much as I did.
I've only read the first two of Anna Stephens' Godblind trilogy so was expecting far more blood and guts. There is that, plenty to satisfy gore hounds, but this is a haunted tale that is as mysterious as it is unnerving. I really hope the author writes more of this sub-genre (Grimdark horror) as she is very deft in creating an unsettling mood.
Oh, and the purple edge-painting of the pages? Glorious!
I've only read the first two of Anna Stephens' Godblind trilogy so was expecting far more blood and guts. There is that, plenty to satisfy gore hounds, but this is a haunted tale that is as mysterious as it is unnerving. I really hope the author writes more of this sub-genre (Grimdark horror) as she is very deft in creating an unsettling mood.
Oh, and the purple edge-painting of the pages? Glorious!
January 20, 2023
I've been really enjoying the Warhammer Horror and Crime series. The worlds of Warhammer have always been inherently horrifying, but when you take characters who are less well-equipped to deal with threats than the average superhuman warrior you start to understand just how terrifying life in the Mortal Realms can be.
'Gothghul Hollow' is a great slice of horror for this most bleak time of year when the nights are long and the days are cold. There's an engaging central mystery and a cast of characters who all felt like they had something to contribute to advancing the story. This is the first book in the 'Tales of Mhurghast' series and I'm excited to see how it continues and builds towards something bigger.
'Gothghul Hollow' is a great slice of horror for this most bleak time of year when the nights are long and the days are cold. There's an engaging central mystery and a cast of characters who all felt like they had something to contribute to advancing the story. This is the first book in the 'Tales of Mhurghast' series and I'm excited to see how it continues and builds towards something bigger.
February 12, 2024
As I write this review, the book is sitting on 3.82 out of 5 on Goodreads (based on 260 ratings) and that’s about spot on.
I found this a conflicting read. Within the first few chapters, I’d had literal goosebumps four times. I excitedly believed, or at least hoped, that I was gripping a genuine 5-star book in my grubby hands… and I don’t give out five star reviews often.
BUT, by the middle of the book I found myself rolling my eyes as the adult characters exhibited pubescent responses to parental conflict, and while the book finished strongly with an unexpected twist, it never reached the promise of the opening chapters.
The Good:
* Solid action scenes and multiple intertwined story lines, including: a mysterious, powerful, creature that is hunting and slaughtering the inhabitants of The Hollow. A daughter struggling to find her identity after growing up without a mother and under the rule of an overly protective, yet distant, father. The suggestion of a romance that is yet to bloom.
The Bad:
* A very slow build, that is punctuated with flashbacks to deliver context and backstory, where the main characters simply spent too long in the castle.
The Ugly:
* Really childish reactions to situations. Adults behaving in a way that a 12 or 13 year old might empathise with. For me at least, this really detracted from the book.
I found this a conflicting read. Within the first few chapters, I’d had literal goosebumps four times. I excitedly believed, or at least hoped, that I was gripping a genuine 5-star book in my grubby hands… and I don’t give out five star reviews often.
BUT, by the middle of the book I found myself rolling my eyes as the adult characters exhibited pubescent responses to parental conflict, and while the book finished strongly with an unexpected twist, it never reached the promise of the opening chapters.
The Good:
* Solid action scenes and multiple intertwined story lines, including: a mysterious, powerful, creature that is hunting and slaughtering the inhabitants of The Hollow. A daughter struggling to find her identity after growing up without a mother and under the rule of an overly protective, yet distant, father. The suggestion of a romance that is yet to bloom.
The Bad:
* A very slow build, that is punctuated with flashbacks to deliver context and backstory, where the main characters simply spent too long in the castle.
The Ugly:
* Really childish reactions to situations. Adults behaving in a way that a 12 or 13 year old might empathise with. For me at least, this really detracted from the book.
April 5, 2022
I just got into the Warhammer hobby about a month ago and this is the first book I’ve read from Black Library. WOW! I LOVED IT! Can Anna Stephens please write more?
This is a great book for any fantasy lovers, regardless of whether you’re interested in Warhammer/Age of Sigmar or not. As I said, this is the first Warhammer novel I’ve read and was completely oblivious of the lore. The book was easy to follow and so entertaining! The character development was fantastic—I’m really going to miss adventures with Edrea, Runar, Aaric, and Tiberius. I need more!
This is a great book for any fantasy lovers, regardless of whether you’re interested in Warhammer/Age of Sigmar or not. As I said, this is the first Warhammer novel I’ve read and was completely oblivious of the lore. The book was easy to follow and so entertaining! The character development was fantastic—I’m really going to miss adventures with Edrea, Runar, Aaric, and Tiberius. I need more!
February 20, 2024
This book read like a mix between the exorcist, poltergeists, and a classic gothic ghost story. The story and characters were a bit bland, and character development was almost non existent. I did enjoy the authors descriptive style and the battle sequences, which showed her talent. But the plot and everything else was just not unique enough to really grab my attention.
It’s a decent Warhammer horror novel but there are better ones out there in the Warhammer universe. Also the book ending on a cliff hanger with no evidence of a sequel bothers me a bit.
It’s a decent Warhammer horror novel but there are better ones out there in the Warhammer universe. Also the book ending on a cliff hanger with no evidence of a sequel bothers me a bit.
September 10, 2024
i'm enjoying delving into the AOS world just a teensy bit, there's a ton i still don't know but the fantasy aspect of it is really fun and lends itself super well to horror. i think there's a lot of other stories relevant to this book but it felt good to read standalone anyway and gave me some other books to consider afterwards. a lot of this book did feel like setup for future books, especially looking back after finishing, but the exposition was still interesting. the burgeoning romance between edrea and runar felt a little rush-y but it also kinda makes sense for the setting and fantasy books are just kinda like that.
March 16, 2025
To be honest, it was a bit of a let down. I feel like I don't have enough background knowledge of the setting of Warhammer Age of Sigmar to have the ending feel satisfying. The horror wasn't really much horror. Just a bit bloody.
I liked it, but it isn't my favorite book set in the Warhammer universe so far.
I liked it, but it isn't my favorite book set in the Warhammer universe so far.
April 2, 2025
This was an interesting read. It is based within the Vampire Counts lands and this is one of my favorite factions.
The story starts off really strong with plenty of action and mystery. The prose is superbly written, I really enjoyed it. However the pacing goes off a little after the first third of the book and you spend so much time, too much time, in what is basically a single conversation. Things didn't really pick up again until the last 40 or so pages.
I was also a little confused about the creature they were trying to summon, or at least their motives. The characters kept going on about that they wanted to hear this message from the creature despite all the deaths etc but when they summoned the creature it really didn't seem to want to give a message at all and tried to kill them for the tenth time then suddenly it was like "Yeah alright, we're allies now. You can trust me." It was just a little jarring.
However, it was still an enjoyable read and Edrea is just a badass who I want to read about again.
The story starts off really strong with plenty of action and mystery. The prose is superbly written, I really enjoyed it. However the pacing goes off a little after the first third of the book and you spend so much time, too much time, in what is basically a single conversation. Things didn't really pick up again until the last 40 or so pages.
I was also a little confused about the creature they were trying to summon, or at least their motives. The characters kept going on about that they wanted to hear this message from the creature despite all the deaths etc but when they summoned the creature it really didn't seem to want to give a message at all and tried to kill them for the tenth time then suddenly it was like "Yeah alright, we're allies now. You can trust me." It was just a little jarring.
However, it was still an enjoyable read and Edrea is just a badass who I want to read about again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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