Iain Bertram
OK, I am biased. A friend wrote this book and just before it was released died suddenly and far too young.
It's mostly well written with decent pacing (not too long) and shows real promise. Definitely worth a try if you can cope with the strong horror elements and war related violence. To increase the chaotic nature of the book it is set during the English Civil war and posits that real witches (of both sexes) existed and were evil.
The book moves along well and the protagonist is well rounded. My main criticisms are that the villains motivations are very sketchy and that some scenes did not ring true using maggots to heal wounds and some of the weapons).
I enjoyed reading about places in Lancaster set where I lived (back when Lancaster was the major north western trading port in England where initial trade with the North American colonies occurred. I have walked through Aldcliffe many timed over the years as well as Sunderland point.
It is a shame we will not have a chance to see Paul improve his writing and have the chance to develop.
In memory of Paul and Jen.
