T. Kingfisher‘s What Feasts at Night is a bone-chilling tale follows retired soldier Alex Easton on a new adventure filled with creepy horror imagery and Kingfisher’s signature storytelling. A great followup to What Moves the Dead in the Sworn Soldiers series.
After the traumatic events that took place in the Usher manor, Alex Easton just wants some rest and relaxation. But instead, they find themself heading to their family hunting lodge in Gallacia as a favor to Angus and Miss Potter. Upon arrival, Easton discovers that the caretaker is dead, the lodge is in disarray, and there is an eerie silence surrounding the grounds. The villagers whisper about a breath-stealing monster from folklore taking up residence in Easton’s home. Despite their skepticism towards local superstitions, Easton can tell something isn’t quite right.
What makes What Feasts at Night an engaging read is Kingfisher’s blend of humor with horror elements. Kingfisher has a talent for balancing both genres without diminishing either one’s impact. The book also explores themes of post-traumatic stress disorder since Easton is still recovering from their time as a soldier.
The dream sequences are another aspect that makes this book unique; they add an extra layer of creepiness to the story by blurring reality and nightmares together. You never quite know what’s real or imagined in Easton’s mind.
However, while we enjoyed reading What Feasts at Night, it does fall slightly short compared to its predecessor What Moves the Dead. Both being outstanding novellas.
Overall, What Feasts at Night is a haunting tale that adds to the Sworn Soldier series of books. While it may not be as strong as the first book in the series, it’s still worth reading to see what happens next to Alex Easton!
What Feasts at Night is available at bookstores everywhere. Check out the Libro.fm audiobook narrated by Avi Roque. Also be sure to checkout the audiobook of What Moves the Dead!
