In the Gloaming

Catt Dahman’s In the Gloaming transports readers to the frozen desolation of 1865. The narrative follows the crews of the HMS Khione and the Mary Lou as they search for clues regarding the Franklin Expedition. Although the ships Terror and Erebus remain unseen, the survivors discover evidence of their tragic fate. Trapped by ice in the Arctic, the characters begin to believe a curse has taken hold. A chaplain among them insists that only bloodshed and fire can break this spell. The story draws heavily on Inuit legends as creatures from those myths hunt the men. The death toll rises quickly while fear spreads through the ranks. Survivors must confront not only these monsters and harsh conditions but also their own societal rules and each other. Ghosts and giant bears move between seracs and crevasses during their years-long struggle for escape. Dahman presents a tale where supernatural horror meets historical survivalism. This book suits readers who enjoy period pieces with strong supernatural elements and psychological tension. It may not appeal to those seeking lighthearted adventure or purely scientific exploration of the Arctic. The narrative focuses on the slow descent into madness and violence as hope fades. The setting provides a claustrophobic backdrop for the escalating conflict between men and myth.