The Black Mountain: Quick Reads 2022

The Black Mountain is a short story by Kate Mosse that takes place in 1706 on the north-west coast of Tenerife. Ana, a young Spanish woman, lives in a town in the shadow of a mighty volcano. She notices that the air feels strange and heavy, and the birds have stopped singing. A sudden tremor in the earth frightens her, and it becomes a race against time to persuade the town to flee before the volcano erupts and destroys their world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 14 April 2022
Publisher: Pan Macmillan

The Black Mountain is a captivating short story penned by the acclaimed bestselling author Kate Mosse. Set in May 1706, the narrative revolves around Ana, a young Spanish woman, who resides in a quaint town situated on the north-west coast of Tenerife. The town, nestled in the shadow of a formidable volcano, holds a legendary belief that the devil lurks within its fiery depths. However, for countless centuries, the volcano has remained dormant, causing doubt and dispelling any sense of imminent threat.

One fateful day, Ana becomes acutely aware of an unsettling atmosphere and the sudden cessation of bird songs. Engaged in tending the family vineyard, a sudden peculiar tremor jolts her, instilling a deep sense of fear. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Ana embarks on a mission to persuade the townspeople that they are in grave danger and must evacuate before the volcano erupts, unleashing its destructive power upon their world.

Time becomes a crucial factor as Ana races against the clock to convince her fellow residents of the impending eruption. However, her efforts face a formidable challenge. The townspeople, steeped in tradition and disbelief, are reluctant to believe the warnings and dismiss the potential danger. Ana must confront their skepticism and present compelling evidence to persuade them to take immediate action.

As Ana navigates this treacherous path, she confronts another perilous threat lurking within the shadows. Personal conflicts and hidden secrets threaten to derail her efforts and imperil the lives of those she cares about. With determination and resilience, Ana must navigate these challenges and rally the townspeople toward a common goal—escape before it is too late.

The story unfolds with a sense of urgency and suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats as they witness Ana's courageous journey and the town's ultimate fate. The Black Mountain serves as a powerful reminder of the unpredictable nature of life and the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. Through Ana's determination and the townspeople's eventual realization of the gravity of the situation, the story offers a poignant reflection on the power of resilience, courage, and unity in the face of adversity.

Weight: 110g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529088465