The Deathless Gods, is a well written horror novella that begins with an introduction to protagonist Benjamin Cain who is researching the possibility of life outside our plane of existence. Through his research journey and interviews he uncovers evidence relating to ‘the Deathless Gods.’
Although the novella itself is a work of fiction, a reader can almost believe that the character Benjamin Cain is a real person and that these are actual true accounts cited and recorded. The chapters in the first part of the book move through various methods of communication and research gathered relating to the ‘Deathless Gods’ and the accounts shared by those who claim to have experienced or have witnessed the resulting darkness, fear and madness the Gods inflict as they pass through the veil and into our world.
I know that there are many of us out there who do remain curious about the possibility of demons actually existing, and who will have read and seen the vast amount of books and movies evidencing such claims. As the old saying goes ‘there is truth in fiction,’ and so again readers can easily be forgiven for thinking ‘the Deathless Gods’ may be a potential reality too. This in itself demonstrates the quality of the author’s work and that ‘the Deathless Gods’ is a truly imaginative and clever piece of fiction writing which I highly commend the author for.
The plot moves at a good pace and is atmospheric and fascinating, each account creating intrigue and mystery, and giving readers pause for thought. The characters are credible, and the dialogue realistic. We do not know much about Benjamin Cain himself as the author does not develop his character beyond the remit of the research that is undertaken. However there is a plot twist at the end of Part 1 giving a little more insight. There are some minor editorial issues but these are not sufficient enough to distract or pull the reader out of the story.
The second part of the book is more an extended account and short story with one main protagonist called Arthur Dibsdale, and his experience with a Deathless God. It is lighter on the dialogue side and more descriptive but very well done. I have to say that this was my favourite part of the book, and I was very satisfied with the ending. It was exactly what I had hoped for Arthur and his companion and I am so pleased that the author delivered this expectation.
A great book for horror enthusiasts and those with a curious mind and I award 4.5 stars.
