Slewfoot: A Tale of Bewitchery. A new Novel by artist and author Brom. Published by Tor Nightfire
Set against the backdrop of colonial America in 1666.
At the core, this is a book about perceptions and how our upbringing conditions us to see. The story presents two contrasting ways of relating to the world. In one, humanity’s relationship with the earth and with the Gods of old connect them to nature, where life cycles are dependant on creating balance. In contrast, a new paradigm is set rigidly in place by the values of a Puritan community. who use their Christian dogma to instill fear in the community through social pressure and religious intolerance.
We can’t help but admire Abitha for her endurance against all odds. She struggles to be true to herself while in conflict with the prejudices of her father and church. Yet she clings to the remnants of the pagan wisdom that her mother taught her. It is this knowledge that allows her to put her trust in the wildfolk.
An ancient horned spirit is awakened and haunts her land, resulting in unexpected consequences. She names him Samson, healer, slayer, protector. He is flawed and lost, seeking the truth of his origins and his purpose. Through his vulnerability, he creates a bond with Abitha.
He is in the company of other wildfolk, whom anyone would be frightened of, they are naughty little tricksters who call Samson father. But the really dangerous evil is not where you would expect to find it.
This is a book that you want to curl up with on a rainy day and read front-to-back without interruption because it tugs at your heart and you want to know what happens to the characters that you love.
It is a story that stays with you through the day when you’re doing other things because few of us have the time to curl up and read for hours! Finally, it is a haunting mystery that follows you into your dreams. Relish this epic tale, you won’t be disappointed!
Slewfoot is available now in hardback. It is full of wonderful illustrations by Brom himself.
See also his previous books: The Child Thief, Krampus, The Lost Gods, and the award-winning, illustrated horror novels The Plucker and The Devil’s Rose.
