TITLE: Deeper, Older, Darker
AUTHOR: P.J. Richards
PUBLISHER: Snowbooks, 2020
ISBN: 978-1-913-52516-3
PODCAST EPISODE: None
REVIEWER: Joana Varanda
Published in November 2020 by Snowbooks, P.J. Richards’ first novel is the perfect read for those familiar with Black Dog folklore and the Neolithic sites of Somerset, England - which were here given an ingenious hidden purpose.
The story follows the exploits of an ancient underground network divided into three sects tasked with safeguarding specific denominations of Somersetian warring Hallows: Forts, Barrows and Sanctuaries - such as Silbury Hill, West Kennet and Glastonbury Tor, respectively. Each site has its own team of custodians - who have either chosen the site, or been chosen by it? - and members seem to share a mystical connection with each other and the land, answering to a leader known as their First.
But the unsteady truce between all is shaken when Peter, First of Ninestones, is drawn by an unassailable beckoning to recover an artifact imbued with the energies of the last wolves of England, who have transmuted into dangerous Black Dogs. As each Hallow scrambles to possess this energy, conflict erupts, especially among the Forts who rely on the usage of bows and arrows for their protection - and attack. Above all stand the Yew trees, primitive beacons acting as healers for those who fall victim to the Bowlore's covenant.
It is clear to see that this was a book greatly loved by its author, who weaved and researched this story for many years before committing it to publication. Yet more remarkable is noticing that this is a perfect example of the clichéd writing adage "write what you know", except done right. Having followed P.J. Richards on social media for quite some time, I was able to identify some of her special interests, such as yews, bows, ancient Neolithic sites, and even Lord of the Rings. Her uniqueness certainly shone through in ‘Deeper Older Darker’, reminding those of us who yearn to tell a story that our own unique combination of experiences and interests has a similar potential to make up a unique tale.
I am curious to see whether other sites from the British Isles will prompt a sequel, and a little bird has told me they might. My only personal wish for next instalments however, is the addition of a few more peaceful moments throughout the narrative, as for all the excellence in Richards’ fable, it might feel aggressive and fast-paced at times. I also suggest following up on this read by looking at Mark Norman’s ‘Black Dog Folklore’, which may serve as an academic exploration of canine myths associated with Richards’ book.
Finally, the little illustrations (by the author herself) at the beginning of each chapter were the extra cherry on top of this cake that is sure to satisfy seekers of old ways, alchemy, and symbolism. Recommended.
AUTHOR: P.J. Richards
PUBLISHER: Snowbooks, 2020
ISBN: 978-1-913-52516-3
PODCAST EPISODE: None
REVIEWER: Joana Varanda
Published in November 2020 by Snowbooks, P.J. Richards’ first novel is the perfect read for those familiar with Black Dog folklore and the Neolithic sites of Somerset, England - which were here given an ingenious hidden purpose.
The story follows the exploits of an ancient underground network divided into three sects tasked with safeguarding specific denominations of Somersetian warring Hallows: Forts, Barrows and Sanctuaries - such as Silbury Hill, West Kennet and Glastonbury Tor, respectively. Each site has its own team of custodians - who have either chosen the site, or been chosen by it? - and members seem to share a mystical connection with each other and the land, answering to a leader known as their First.
But the unsteady truce between all is shaken when Peter, First of Ninestones, is drawn by an unassailable beckoning to recover an artifact imbued with the energies of the last wolves of England, who have transmuted into dangerous Black Dogs. As each Hallow scrambles to possess this energy, conflict erupts, especially among the Forts who rely on the usage of bows and arrows for their protection - and attack. Above all stand the Yew trees, primitive beacons acting as healers for those who fall victim to the Bowlore's covenant.
It is clear to see that this was a book greatly loved by its author, who weaved and researched this story for many years before committing it to publication. Yet more remarkable is noticing that this is a perfect example of the clichéd writing adage "write what you know", except done right. Having followed P.J. Richards on social media for quite some time, I was able to identify some of her special interests, such as yews, bows, ancient Neolithic sites, and even Lord of the Rings. Her uniqueness certainly shone through in ‘Deeper Older Darker’, reminding those of us who yearn to tell a story that our own unique combination of experiences and interests has a similar potential to make up a unique tale.
I am curious to see whether other sites from the British Isles will prompt a sequel, and a little bird has told me they might. My only personal wish for next instalments however, is the addition of a few more peaceful moments throughout the narrative, as for all the excellence in Richards’ fable, it might feel aggressive and fast-paced at times. I also suggest following up on this read by looking at Mark Norman’s ‘Black Dog Folklore’, which may serve as an academic exploration of canine myths associated with Richards’ book.
Finally, the little illustrations (by the author herself) at the beginning of each chapter were the extra cherry on top of this cake that is sure to satisfy seekers of old ways, alchemy, and symbolism. Recommended.