Starve Acre: 'Beautifully written and triumphantly creepy' Mail on Sunday

The Willoughby family is devastated when their son Ewan dies suddenly at the age of five. Juliette seeks the help of the Beacons, a group of occultists, to make contact with Ewan's spirit. Richard, an art historian, tries to blot out his grief by digging in the barren soil of Starve Acre, but unearths something that should have remained buried. Hurley's ability to create a world that is like ours in many ways and really not in many others is again on full display.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 29 October 2020
Publisher: John Murray Press

An impeccable work of folk horror, "The Beacons" by Richard and Juliette Willoughby is a gripping tale that explores the depths of grief and the lengths people will go to make contact with the supernatural. The story follows Richard and Juliette, a couple who have lost their five-year-old son, Ewan, in a sudden and tragic accident. Convinced that Ewan's spirit still lingers, Juliette seeks the help of the Beacons, a group of occultists who claim to have the ability to communicate with the dead. Richard, on the other hand, tries to cope with his grief by focusing on his work as an art historian, specifically the field opposite their house, Starve Acre. As he digs in the barren soil, looking for the roots of a legendary oak tree, he unearths something that should have remained buried. The story is a masterclass in suspense, as Hurley skillfully weaves together elements of folk horror, mystery, and psychological drama. The characters are well-developed, and their motivations are clear, making them relatable and sympathetic. The setting is also crucial to the story, as the Beacons' isolated farmhouse provides a perfect backdrop for the supernatural events that unfold. The Beacons themselves are a fascinating group of individuals, each with their own unique beliefs and practices. They are led by a charismatic figure named Mrs. Beacon, who claims to have the ability to communicate with the dead and to help those who are grieving. However, as the story progresses, it becomes clear that Mrs. Beacon's motives are not entirely altruistic, and that she may have her own agenda. The plot twists and turns, keeping the reader guessing until the very end. Hurley's writing is evocative and atmospheric, creating a sense of dread and unease that is palpable throughout the story. The descriptions of the supernatural events are vivid and terrifying, and the characters' reactions to them are realistic and heartbreaking. The ending of the story is both satisfying and unsettling, leaving the reader with a sense of unease and reflection. Overall, "The Beacons" is a must-read for fans of folk horror and psychological drama. Hurley's ability to create a world that is both familiar and strange is truly impressive, and the story's themes of grief, loss, and the supernatural are timeless and relevant. Whether you are a seasoned horror fan or a newcomer to the genre, this book is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Weight: 214g
Dimension: 128 x 196 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529387308