In 18th century France a fearsome beast was ravaging the people without mercy. No one could say what it was, but the word “werewolf’ would adequately describe what was keeping the country in fear of being butchered. The authorities called out hundreds of soldiers and hunters to find and kill the creature, but it was never found. Cameron Sullivan has taken this legend and built an intimate, personal and horrific tale around it. It was known as “The Beast of Gevaudan”.

With features of both fantasy and horror, this engaging tale of good versus evil introduces us to a protagonist who is both hero and villain. Professor Sebastian Graves is of indeterminate age but clearly ancient, although his appearance argues otherwise. He is partnered with a malevolent spirit who guides, but does not direct, his actions. Together they sustain themselves with the elemental forces contained in living creatures. Sadly, those creatures must die to provide this nourishment. As a centuries-old denizen of the dark side, he knows both joy and sorrow, but he makes the most of what is given him. His lusts are non-denominational; men, women, children all can provide not only life-giving essence, but sexual gratification. He’s not a good person. Still, he tries, when he can, to do the right thing within his own restrictions.

He arrives in France during a time just before the revolution of the 18th century in a region that is being ravaged by a beast that savages the people leaving only bloody shreds behind. There are angels involved, and not the round-cheeked cherubs of valentine cards, but the avenging angels of sword and fire who intervene in human affairs to support plans that go far beyond any plans and hopes of humankind. Graves allies himself with the scion of a noble family who reign in the region where the demonic affliction is holding sway. They work together to find and destroy the beast and as a side activity enjoy sex with each other. It’s a pretty spicy mix.

As might be expected, conflicts arise as a result of Graves’ more sinister motivations and deeds, and the relationships vary from being feted as a hero to being jailed with the threat of burning at the stake as a witch. He is, after all, really a predator, but more powerful and with broader malevolent abilities than the typical lupine villain.

Complex and rich with detail, this will satisfy both the reader of dark fantasy and the fan of horror fiction. Fast-moving action and clever dialogue ornament this work, keeping the attention of the reader throughout.