The Maiden's Sleep

“The Maiden's Sleep is a multilayered delight. From the double meaning of the title to the multiple dangerous challenges facing our protagonist to the exciting mix of genres, this novella delivers a thrilling adventure. It is a quick read, both in word count and excellent pacing.

Emphatically dark fantasy with a mystery plot, it is also a story of personal examination and redemption. Such doesn't come easy though. Our hero 'Bow' is experiencing a bit of a rough patch when he is called upon -- as a seemingly last resort -- to step back into a role he thought he'd left far behind and buried. Frankly, he's so far off his game and the grid that he's not even remotely interested...until beer money is mentioned.

He soon learns he's not really expected to save the day once again. He's only been invited to simply solve a problem no one involved wants other, better equipped, informed, capable, and official characters to know about. With his own personal battles waging within and about him, Bow doesn't know if he's got what it takes to see this one through. But there's that beer money, and the one thing he does know is that even if he wakes up worse off than before, for a few hours he enjoyed a blissful oblivion.

Fans of Alex Bledsoe's Eddie LaCrosse stories and even Jim Butcher's Dresden Files will find much to savor here. Dark enough to distress, making the flicker of hope bright; desperate enough to disturb, making the sliver of hope entice. If you enjoy deadly and dangerous fantastical tales featuring a conflicted hero and cool alchemical magics, this is definitely for you.” - Jason M Waltz, Rogue Blades Entertainment

“This story is a compelling blend of fantasy, action, and deep emotional narrative, masterfully crafted to draw the reader into a dark and immersive world from the outset. Bow, the main character, initially portrayed as a grief-stricken individual with a strong aversion to children, undergoes a profound transformation, gradually finding himself in a reluctant yet caring role. This journey is depicted with remarkable depth and sensitivity, highlighting the complexities of his character.

The author's use of descriptive language is particularly effective, vividly painting scenes that immerse the reader in the urgency and danger of Bow's world. For instance, Bow's harrowing experience of being buried alive and his desperate fight for survival is described with such intensity that it almost allows the reader to feel the suffocating earth and his frantic struggle for freedom. Similarly, his confrontation with the monstrous alchemist and the chaotic encounters with Bennie's men are crafted with a keen eye for detail, adding to the story's gripping nature.

The story's pacing is another of its strengths, striking a fine balance between high-octane action sequences and moments of introspection. This pacing allows for a deeper exploration of Bow's internal conflicts and the gradual change in his worldview, making his character development feel both natural and profound.

While the story's dark tone and Bow's initial negativity towards children might initially seem jarring, these elements add a layer of realism and depth to the narrative. They serve as a backdrop for his eventual transformation, making it all the more impactful. The plot's complexity, with its many twists and turns, requires the reader's full attention but rewards them with a rich and engaging experience.

Overall, this story is an enthralling read for those who appreciate dark fantasy combined with rich character development and a strong emotional core. The author's ability to weave together intense action with a deep and thoughtful narrative makes this tale both memorable and thought-provoking. It's a testament to the power of storytelling in exploring the nuances of human emotion and resilience in Bow's compelling journey.” - Dean Shawker, editor, author, and minion of the Hell Hare