Fantasy short novel: 'When Stories Died'

In 'When Stories Died', Austrian author Alexander Sandmann presents a quiet fantasy novel about memory, meaning, and the stories that hold a world together.

This story will appeal to readers who prefer wonder to spectacle, and stories that linger long after the final page has been turned. Alexander kindly sent us a review copy. We were captivated from the very beginning and couldn't put it down.

But what are stories really?

Stories are meant to entertain, and they are meant to teach – and, above all, they are meant to connect. Without them, the main thread in the fabric of our shared existence – which holds so much together without us even realising it – would be lost. This is precisely the theme of Alexander Sandmann's story.

The fantasy novel centres on the character Avelian, a councillor in an isolated town of white houses and red roofs, whose inhabitants rarely leave to explore the wider world. Yet, in his speeches, Avelian repeatedly talks about paths and ancient sites embedded in stories. This is why he is known as the storyteller.

But something has changed. Something is completely different. In fact, something has already disappeared, or is in the process of doing so.

On the day of the solstice, far away, the Druid Kaela notices that the fires are losing their power, even though they are still burning. She begins her search for a storyteller. So it comes to pass that Avelian and Kaela set out on a journey together that teaches this man, in particular, more than he ever expected. A quest begins, the outcome of which is entirely uncertain.

A truly fascinating story

Alexander Sandmann tells his story in such vivid detail that it truly conjures up images. Without exaggerated drama, but all the more compelling for it. And, as befits a storyteller, he touches on many things we may have forgotten.

Our reading recommendation: (Advertising) 'When Stories Died', which is around 130 pages long, was published in July 2026. Alexander Sandmann has only released his fantasy short novel as an e-book.

The German edition was published under the title 'Der Geschichtenerzähler' and is also available as an e-book. You can read our German-language review here.

Note: 'When Stories Died' is Alexander Sandmann's first published story, and the beginning of a greater journey. Further stories from different worlds and genres are already in the works.

© The review of 'When Stories Died', a fantasy short novel by Alexander Sandmann, was written by Izabel Comati, using quotes from the publisher's blurb, 07/2026.