Mischief Acts

In Mischief Acts, Zoe Gilbert reimagines the myth of Herne the Hunter as a shapeshifter who navigates through centuries of British folklore, encountering transgression, debauchery, and enchantment. The book has received critical acclaim for its ambition, brilliance, and imaginative storytelling, earning it a place on the Sunday Times Book of the Year list.

Format: Hardback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 17 March 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

A SUNDAY TIMES BOOK OF THE YEAR

"Mischief Acts" is a captivating and mesmerizing work of literature that transports readers on a thrilling journey through the rich tapestry of English folklore. This extraordinary book, penned by Zoe Gilbert, showcases a remarkable ambition that is flawlessly executed.

The narrative revolves around the enigmatic character of Herne, the hunter, mischief-maker, spirit of the forest, and leader of the wild hunt. With his ability to shapeshift, Herne traverses through centuries, encountering various historical events and cultural milestones. From the candlelit Twelfth Night revels to the spectacular burning of the Crystal Palace and the acid-laced Sixties party, he weaves his way through time, leaving a trail of transgression, debauchery, and enchantment in his wake.

However, as the forest encroaches upon by urban sprawl and gentrification, and the world faces crises of its own, Herne must find a way to survive or exact his revenge. The book explores themes of identity, survival, and the clash between the ancient and the contemporary, as Herne struggles to adapt to the changing world around him.

One of the most striking features of "Mischief Acts" is its intoxicating, chameleonic voice. Gilbert's writing is vivid, evocative, and filled with a sense of wonder and magic. The book is a dark-dazzling archive of enchantments, pursuit, and desire, taking readers on a thrilling race through time and space. The narrative seamlessly weaves together the ancient and the contemporary, creating a rich tapestry of myth, legend, and contemporary fiction.

The character of Herne is a captivating and complex one. He is both a hunter and a prey, a shapeshifter and a creature of myth. His journey through time is filled with both triumphs and tragedies, as he confronts his creator and struggles to find his place in the world. His relationships with other characters, both human and supernatural, are nuanced and layered, adding depth and complexity to the story.

The book's style is adventurous and stylistically magnificent. Gilbert's writing is filled with vivid imagery, evocative language, and a sense of playfulness that keeps readers engaged and entertained from start to finish. The book's use of myth, legend, and contemporary fiction creates a unique and captivating blend that appeals to readers of all ages and backgrounds.

"Mischief Acts" is not just a work of literature; it is a celebration of the power of storytelling and the magic that lies within the pages of a book. The book reminds us of the wildness within ourselves and the importance of embracing our inner demons and embracing the unknown. It is a testament to the enduring power of myth and the potential for storytelling to inspire, challenge, and transform.

In conclusion, "Mischief Acts" is a remarkable work of literature that showcases a remarkable ambition and is flawlessly executed. With its intoxicating, chameleonic voice, boundless imagination, and exploration of the rich tapestry of English folklore, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves fantasy, myth, and the power of storytelling. Prepare to be transported on a thrilling journey through time and space, where transgression, debauchery, and enchantment always follow in Herne's wake.

Weight: 562g
Dimension: 224 x 146 x 41 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526628800