Review: A masterful descent into the depths of fantasy madness
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 08 7, 2012
"Seven Into the Bleak" is a fantasy short story by author Matthew Iden.  The tale revolves around seven adventurers who at the request of a sage in search of Delven (Dwarven) treasures venture into the treacherous and legendary caverns simply known as "The Bleak."  The group consists of Galdur (a sage), Filki (an elven mage), Karn (a seasoned warrior), Lilath (a healer and priest), Meki (a female, but of unknown profession),  Harlan (a noble knight/paladin) and Tamik (a rogue and leader of the group).  With promises of lost cities and famed Delven riches the seven eagerly set out into the Bleak expecting wealth beyond their expectations.  But when an unexpected turn of events creates tragedy for the group, the Seven must fight for their own survival as well as their sanity or become yet another casualty of the Bleak.  Here are my thoughts on Seven Into the Bleak;Pros+ Incredibly engaging, descriptive and well written.  The author does a superb job of drawing you in to where you feel like you're alongside the Seven in the deep, dark and damp caverns of the Bleak.+ Grim, gritty and dare I say "bleak" setting/story that pulls no punches.+ Intriguing cast of characters with their own agendas that are easy to identify with.+ Author provides detailed story notes at the end of the tale explaining his inspiration.+ Plenty of twists and turns.+ Decent amount of action.+ Great cover art.+ Perfect pacing.Cons <Contains SPOILERS>- Draws too closely to D&D; at times when it isn't really necessary in a story of this caliber.- No map.  I would love to see a map of the bleak or even a glossary of some of its creatures.- Characters need a bit more description in the beginning as I found it difficult to remember who was who."Seven Into The Bleak" was easily the best fantasy short I've read this year.  Its atmosphere is oppressive and foreboding.  The horrors the Seven face seem all too real and you find yourself wondering if you yourself would be able to survive in such a situation.  Seven Into The Bleak will make you question whether or not you'd have the fortitude to venture into such a fantasy realm.  The truths and turns of events that occur while the Seven are in the Bleak are numerous and rarely predictable.  When I finished the story I immediately wanted someone else to read it just so I could have someone else to discuss it with.  Even though I downloaded this title for free during a promotion, I can honestly say it's easy to justify the price for a short story of this quality.  Easily the most memorable fantasy short I've read this year. If you like your fantasy dark and without the constant "good always triumphs over evil" syndrome then this is the story for you.  Mr. Iden if you read this, please give us more stories of the Bleak!  5 stars, more if I could!