Patchwork — Mel Odom

Patchwork is a novella set in the world of Accursed. The story opens when Martin van Schattierung awakens within a mass grave, as grave robbers disturb his rest. The flesh golem is confused by his existence as an Accursed and shocked to learn that the Bane War ended fifty years ago. He must work to uncover his past at the same time as he attempts to find his way in a world so different from the one he remembers.

About the setting:
In a world of dark fantasy and perilous adventure, the forces of evil have triumphed. Those who remain uncorrupted by wickedness must rely upon monsters to fight against the darkness. Witches have ruled the land since the last battles of conquest, but their Grand Coven has been sundered, leaving behind remnants of a once-mighty army. The remnants of the horde include captured citizens of the conquered nations that fought as the Witches' shock troops.

These are the Accursed -- the Witchmarks burned into their flesh and souls transformed these men and women into monstrous forms. Now, unable to return to their former lives, the Accursed wander the land, giving aid to those in need in an attempt to atone for past sins. Some have joined the Order of the Penitent, an organization devoted to ridding the world of the Witches and their evil influence. Others offer their skills as warriors, alchemists, and spies to the highest bidder. Yet others have succumbed to corruption, greed, or insanity.

Light has failed, darkness is ascendant -- only those bearing the forms of monsters can stand against the tide of the Witches' evil. The Accursed are this world's only hope -- they must learn to embrace their curse or to fight against it, and find some way to free themselves forever of their Witchmark.