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The Antiquarian
David Edgar Grinnell’s The Antiquarian is a gothic horror novel wrapped in layers of historical research, romance, and creeping dread. Told through the diary entries of Nicholas Ainsworth, a young archaeology student in 1930s England, the book follows his descent from academic ambition into eerie obsession as he investigates deviant burials and unexplained phenomena tied to folklore, vampires, ghosts, and haunted ruins. Set largely in London and Romania, the story blends scholarly curiosity with gothic thrills, all anchored by Nicholas’s emotional entanglements with two women, one from his past, and one disturbingly present.
This book proved far more emotionally immersive than I initially anticipated. The writing is intimate and affecting, owing much to its diary format, which lends a raw, unfiltered quality to the narrator’s voice. Nicholas begins as an idealistic and somewhat innocent student, eager about etiquette, fashion, and academic pursuits, but gradually unravels as his fascination with vampire folklore deepens into an obsessive search for meaning. The tonal shift is subtle yet deliberate. One moment he’s trading quips with his flamboyant uncle over proper dinner attire, and the next he’s recounting a dream of dancing with Irene, his lost love, in a scene that blurs romance and death. The recollections of Whitby Abbey, particularly the rain-soaked farewell, are profoundly melancholic, evocative, atmospheric, and genuinely moving.
The romantic subplot unfolded in a way I did not expect. Sasha, a reserved and enigmatic Russian student, emerges not merely as a romantic figure but as a survivor of profound trauma. Her fixation on deviant burials is not presented as an eccentricity, but rather as a means of processing her past and reclaiming agency. One particularly affecting moment occurs as she and Nicholas conduct research in a dim, sweltering archive. Their quiet rapport, marked by hesitant humor and growing trust, offers a rare glimpse of tenderness amidst the surrounding gloom. Yet, this intimacy is complicated. Nicholas remains burdened by the unresolved sorrow of his first love, Irene, whose memory casts a long, spectral shadow over his developing feelings. The interplay of romance, grief, and an ever-present sense of the uncanny maintains a charged and uneasy tension throughout the narrative.
What stands out most in The Antiquarian is its masterful use of setting and atmosphere. Grinnell evokes a distinctly Jamesian sense of antiquarian horror, complete with shadowed libraries, decaying records, forgotten castles, and legends murmured more than told. One particularly memorable scene involves Sasha reciting reports of vampire burials while Nicholas, initially skeptical, finds himself gradually and unwillingly drawn into the enigma. The narrative expertly sustains an air of uncertainty, never confirming whether the forces at work are spectral, vampiric, or psychological. This refusal to offer a clear resolution enhances the novel’s gothic sensibility. The ambiguity is deliberate, and it lingers long after the final entry is read.
I would recommend The Antiquarian to readers who appreciate historical horror that is both intellectually rich and emotionally resonant. Those drawn to the works of M.R. James, The Historian, or similar narratives where scholarly protagonists confront ancient terrors armed only with their wits and fragile resolve will find much to admire here. The novel is haunting, atmospheric, and surprisingly moving. It stirred a blend of nostalgia, unease, and quiet sorrow, an emotional complexity that elevates it well beyond conventional genre fare. For those seeking a gothic tale that engages both the heart and the mind, this is a compelling and rewarding choice.
Pages: 424 | ISBN : 1959860232
To End the Night: Julius Caesar’s Secret War
Julius Caesar, a man of ambition and unparalleled intellect, stands at a pivotal moment in his quest to shape Rome’s future. Driven by a profound love for the Republic, he aims to secure its prosperity while navigating treacherous political landscapes. Yet, beyond the schemes of mortal adversaries, a darker force emerges: Vampyres—supernatural beings of insatiable hunger and ruthless intent. Confronted with threats both human and otherworldly, Caesar must wield his military genius and strategic brilliance to safeguard not only Rome’s destiny but also his enduring legacy. Success could immortalize his name, while failure would condemn him and the Republic to oblivion.
In To End the Night: Julius Caesar’s Secret War, LLuew Grey masterfully blends historical fiction with gothic horror, delivering a unique narrative reminiscent of Anne Rice’s evocative prose and Seth Grahame-Smith’s inventive Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter. The novel offers a rich tapestry of historical detail interwoven with macabre elements, creating a gripping tale that feels both familiar and refreshingly original. Grey’s deep understanding of Roman history shines through, with authentic references to pivotal events and figures from Caesar’s life. At its core, the story hinges on Caesar himself—a figure as formidable in battle as he is in political maneuvering. Beset by visible political intrigues and shadowy supernatural foes, he becomes the axis on which this darkly imaginative tale turns. Watching him navigate these dual threats provides both tension and satisfaction, as his resourcefulness and resilience are tested to their limits.
The novel’s pacing is bolstered by thrilling set pieces that keep the action brisk and compelling. Meanwhile, the dialogue is sharp and purposeful, breathing life into the characters and grounding the fantastical elements within a credible framework. Though the book may not aspire to the sweeping grandeur of epic historical fantasies, it doesn’t need to. Grey understands the specific tone his narrative demands and approaches it with precision and confidence, ensuring an entertaining and cohesive reading experience.
To End the Night succeeds as a captivating blend of history and horror. With its intriguing premise, compelling protagonist, and intelligent execution, the novel carves out a unique space in the realm of historical fiction. It’s a brisk, enjoyable read that delivers on its promise to entertain and surprise.
Pages: 95 | ISBN : 978-1998315123
Where Is My Blood Going?
Vampires in BC follows a man who has been partially transformed into a vampire as he grapples with his new identity and the moral questions he faces in this new form. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I was in the hospital waiting for a delayed operation, so I caught up on reading. I decided to re-read Bram Stoker’s Dracula. It awakened a long-hidden fascination with vampires, and then, as my blood was being taken twice a day, I wondered what they were doing with it. The idea of vampires stalking the corridors emerged as we were a sitting target for bloodsuckers to take advantage of. At night in my ward, there were times when patients screamed, which awakened my creative side.
However, I have always been fascinated by the animal and human worlds from different standpoints. My dog’s perspective on life is very different from mine, and I wonder how an intelligent animal would react to what we have done to the environment. I wanted to bring that up, not to lecture about it but to introduce it as an idea for people to consider. Jude also faces a moral dilemma as Vampires in BC depicts the struggle between instinctive behaviour and human compassion.
Did you plan the tone and direction of the novel before writing, or did it come out organically as you were writing?
The first draft emerged while I was writing the book, but the characters created the novel’s direction. A lot of re-writing took place, and ideas surfaced as I was writing. As I said, the characters come alive and know how they behave. They develop, and for example, I’ve tried to show how Gav comes across as a wise-cracking, arrogant teen, but he has another side to him, and although Jude doesn’t acknowledge this openly, he benefits from Gav’s interventions.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
The underlying sexuality in the book resonated with me. If you can shape change as Vampires do, what’s to stop you from becoming a woman, a man, or an animal? With vampires, their overwhelming need to survive is to feed on blood, and the most desirable blood comes from us. However, they have to attract humans, seduce and overwhelm them. You may notice that with those they want to turn, they ask permission first, but at other times, when they have a different objective, they don’t.
Transformations from human to vampire and the lure of longevity are fascinating topics to explore. Don’t we all want to live longer? The lure of wealth and unlimited power is bubbling under the surface of our psyche, which leads to the question: What are we prepared to do to achieve those aims? It’s the age-old dilemma of selling your soul to the devil for riches. Christopher Marlowe’s play Doctor Faustus explores this wonderfully.
The changes we are experiencing due to climate change because of human exploitation gave me a chance to look at it from another species’ point of view. Change, however, is frightening and has repercussions that may not always be positive. So, how does Jude try to balance his love for his vampire life with vestiges of his human empathy?
Can fans look forward to more books from you soon? What are you currently working on?
The first book scattered seeds that could be followed up in a sequel but are still in the embryo stages. I’ve also got an unfinished book waiting for me to return to. However, I found writing about vampires was a lot of fun, as you can create a fantasy worldview around them. In a potential sequel, I would like to concentrate on how vampires are similar to humans with complex characters. One of the younger vampires I’ve introduced could be developed, along with the mission Jude and Gav set for themselves. I also need to develop the roles of the Children of Sasquatch and the Canadian Special Forces. But I’d also like to get reactions from readers to get their perspectives.
Author Links: GoodReads | X | Facebook | Website | Instagram | Book Review
Although Jude loves the power of being a partial vampire, which includes shapeshifting into whatever he wants, he struggles with guilt over the harm his vampiric nature may cause. His human side clings to his past, but as a vampire he has access to a world of power, immortality, and liberation from human limitations.
Should he work to destroy the world he lives in and dominate the planet, or side with humans in fighting the vampires that control him?
Vampires in BC
Vampires in BC, by Keith Costelloe, is a mesmerizing fantasy novel that immerses readers in a dark and atmospheric world where the lines between life and death, human and vampire, blur hauntingly. The story centers on Jude, a character partially transformed into a vampire by the enigmatic Dr. De’Ath. Jude grapples with his identity and the moral dilemmas of his new existence, all while possessing a unique ability to morph between male and female forms, which he uses to explore his fluid sexuality and seduce his victims. This shapeshifting power further complicates his internal struggle between his past human life and his present vampiric state. The novel opens with a chilling prologue set around a campfire, where Dr. De’Ath, in a sinister twist, unveils her vampiric nature to a group of unsuspecting teenagers. From there, the narrative delves into Jude’s experiences and the clandestine world of vampires living beneath a hospital. Led by Dr. De’Ath, these vampires see themselves as saviors of the Earth, destined to cull humanity and restore planetary balance.
Throughout the book, Jude wrestles with the duality of his nature—his human emotions and memories clash with the cold, predatory instincts of a vampire. As he navigates this new world, he must confront his desires and the reality of being a creature that preys on humans. The narrative is richly infused with gothic elements, exploring themes of identity, morality, and the seductive nature of power.
Vampires in BC is a thought-provoking exploration of identity and morality within a gothic horror framework. Keith Costelloe’s evocative writing, with its rich descriptions, vividly paints the eerie world Jude inhabits. One of the book’s many strengths lies in its characters. Jude is a compelling protagonist, torn between his human past and vampiric present. His ability to shift between genders adds a unique dimension to his character, allowing for a nuanced exploration of gender fluidity and sexuality. This aspect of Jude’s character is handled with sensitivity and depth, making his internal conflict all the more poignant. The pacing of the story is well-balanced, with moments of introspection and character development interspersed with intense, suspenseful scenes.
Costelloe’s writing style is both lyrical and precise, creating a haunting atmosphere that lingers long after the final page is turned. The book’s exploration of its darker themes may not be for everyone. The moral ambiguity of the characters, particularly the vampires’ justification for their actions as protectors of the Earth, challenges readers to question traditional notions of good and evil. This moral complexity is a strength but also demands readers to engage deeply with the text.
Vampires in BC is a gripping and atmospheric read that offers more than just a traditional vampire tale. It delves into the complexities of identity, the nature of power, and the consequences of our actions, all within a richly crafted gothic horror setting. Fans of the genre will appreciate the book’s depth and the fresh perspective it brings to vampire mythology.
Pages: 289 | ASIN : B0DJT1HFVS
Heartsmith
Heartsmith is an exhilarating fusion of steampunk and gothic horror set against the backdrop of the dynamic, industrial city of Rexanberg. Sixteen-year-old orphan Aaren Lockett arrives in this sprawling metropolis seeking a fresh start as a Tinker. However, his life quickly veers into the unexpected after a fateful encounter with the Hochs, a dominant faction controlling the city. When Aaren is gifted a literal new heart, he embarks on a perilous journey, tinkering with far more than machines. With the tenacious Sasha Loren, a journalist drawn to the macabre, Aaren uncovers a harrowing conspiracy involving reanimated corpses and a deranged scientist’s twisted experiments. As they explore the city’s shadowy depths, tension mounts, and they are forced to race against time to thwart a malevolent force that threatens to claim their lives.
Stephanie Cotta’s Heartsmith grips you from the first page, immersing you in a steampunk adventure brimming with suspense. Aaren is a compelling protagonist, blending youthful innocence with unyielding resolve, and his partnership with Sasha is both thrilling and endearing. Rexanberg itself feels almost alive, with its vibrant streets, looming skyscrapers, and dark underworld brimming with corruption. Cotta’s vivid descriptions breathe life into this world, making it easy for readers to lose themselves in its richly crafted atmosphere. The city of Rexanberg serves as more than a mere setting; it becomes an integral character. Cotta’s skillful depiction of the industrial marvels and hidden gothic decay infuses Rexanberg with a palpable sense of foreboding. The detailed portrayal of seedy neighborhoods, rival factions, and ominous skyships evokes the clang of metal and the thick scent of engine oil. This intricate world-building perfectly complements the steampunk genre, and Cotta’s mastery shines through. The novel’s pacing is deftly managed, balancing gripping action with sharp dialogue and unexpected emotional depth. Aaren’s transformation—from a hopeful tinkerer to someone who mends both hearts and lives—lends the story a resonant layer of meaning. The gothic horror elements, particularly the Frankenstein-esque experiments, cast a chilling shadow over the plot, maintaining a constant sense of unease.
Heartsmith is a must-read for fans of steampunk, mystery, and gothic horror. It offers plenty of plot twists, unforgettable characters, and a world so meticulously designed that it seems to demand a sequel. If you’re in search of an eerie, thrilling adventure, this novel will not disappoint.
Pages: 284 | ISBN : 1957656700
Pushing the Boundaries and Raising the Stakes
Death or Volentus follows a vampire and necromancer who are nemesis who join forces to rescue a woman from the hands of a malevolent queen. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I was always intrigued by the idea of a supernatural detective who could raise the dead to obtain the answers to various crimes, whether they be from the deceased victim or the criminal. However, the danger of such a figure turning rogue and raising the dead to enact his/her designs would always be a concern, such as we saw here with Volentus. My overarching thought was: Wouldn’t it be interesting to read a story where the villain must rescue the hero this time – and that hero being the person who put that villain in check? Each character involved would be somewhat conflicted, making for an exciting drama. Adding in the vampire who must rely on Volentus to save the heroine he loves creates that perfect formula.
I find the world you created in this novel brimming with possibilities. Where did the inspiration for the setting come from, and how did it change as you were writing?
First, I needed to think of a place brimming with peril to set the stage for the crux of the plot. The only reason our forces would ever consider employing the aid of the hero’s nemesis would be to navigate a realm too dangerous for anyone else except for a villainous figure, in this case, Volentus, who had expertise in all things dead and undead. Establishing a steampunk-like city where the governing body is somewhat corrupt in its own way proved to be a jarring contrast to the dreaded Land of Wilted Roses. A gilded dystopian city parallel to a dark, forbidden land of doom. It just reads great.
What intrigues you about the horror and paranormal genres that led you to write this book?
I’ve always enjoyed pushing the boundaries and raising the stakes of what dark fantasy and horror could be for readers who have read and experienced so much of it already. Making these elements feel real, yet magical, pulls us into the world before we even know we’ve become invested. I want my readers to feel like they’re in the story, that they’re a part of the action. The haunting themes make for a great setting for characters who have relatable motivations. Every reader wants to escape in fiction. So, I endeavor to provide them with an escape they won’t soon forget.
Will there be a follow-up novel to this story? If so, what aspects of the story will the next book cover?
What a fortunate question. I have already begun planning the sequel and have settled on a great new setting for our characters where the previous tale left off. Be on the lookout for Death or Volentus: Macabre Masquerade before the Summer arrives! Intrigue abounds when a king invites Volentus and other powerful figures to a summit for peace disguised as a masquerade ball where everyone involved suspects a trap.
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A perfect read for fans of gothic horror, steampunk, and dark fantasy, Death or Volentus tells the story of a villainous figure who is convinced to embark on a perilous mission to rescue his nemesis from a wicked cult. Volentus is a necromancer able to raise corpses and command them to do his bidding, even leading vast undead armies. While he often plays by his own rules, Volentus finds himself partnering with a skilled vampire who would do anything to save the woman he loves, including slicing off Volentus’s head at the slightest hint of betrayal. However, as the formidable pair quickly discover, their assignment will be anything but what they expected.
Written by the award-winning author of The Angels of Resistance, The Redeem the Knight Trilogy, and Torn Asunder.
Death or Volentus
In Death or Volentus, readers are plunged into a thrilling narrative where Dragan Cellis, a psychic vampire, and Volentus, a necromancer, forge an unlikely alliance. Set against the backdrop of the Land of Wilted Roses, this dark fantasy tale unfolds with Dragan needing Volentus’ expertise to rescue his beloved, Alicent Vale, from the clutches of the malevolent Queen Malkira of Tenebris. The queen’s ambition to amass an army of ‘brands’ – individuals with unique powers – by converting them through torture and manipulation forms the crux of the story.
The dynamic between the characters is compelling. Dragan, initially driven by love, must confront the physical dangers of their mission and the ethical implications of their actions. Volentus, on the other hand, undergoes a transformation. His initial desire for revenge, stemming from a past encounter with Alicent that led to his imprisonment, evolves as he begins to see her in a new light. The narrative deftly illustrates how exposure to Alicent’s suffering alters his perspective, shifting his motivations from vengeance to protection. The plot thickens when it’s revealed what Malkira’s true intentions are. This development elevates the stakes, introducing a sense of urgency and danger as the characters find themselves trapped and facing an overwhelming threat.
The book engages readers from the outset with its action-oriented opening, quickly establishing the central conflict and the unique world it inhabits. The interplay between Alicent, Dragan, and Volentus adds depth to the narrative, ensuring that readers remain invested in their fates. The story’s pacing is well-managed, balancing action with character development and leading to a series of twists that keep the reader eagerly turning the pages.
This novel is a compelling read for fans of dark fantasy and supernatural thrillers. Its blend of action, character dynamics, and a richly imagined world makes it a standout in the genre. The concise nature of the story ensures a fast-paced and eventful experience, making it an excellent choice for those looking for an engaging and immersive narrative.
Pages: 203 | ASIN : B0CK15XBLW
LITERARY TITAN 