Villager

Tom Coxs debut novel explores village life and the countryside through the connections forged and broken across generations, with a landscape threatened by property development and pylons.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 30 March 2023
Publisher: Unbound

Villages are brimming with tales, some fading into obscurity while others become integral parts of local folklore. However, the fortunes of one West Country village are closely monitored and forever etched into history by an omniscient, occasionally crabby presence that keeps a watchful eye on village life.

In the late 1960s, a Californian musician passing through Underhill was captivated by the haunting beauty of the region and composed a set of mesmerizing folk songs that would earn him a devoted cult following. Two decades later, a group of teenagers stumbled upon a disoriented body on the local golf course, igniting a series of events that would intertwine the lives of generations.

In 2019, a pair of lodgers, seeking solace in the crumbling walls of their home, discovered a peculiar one-eyed rag doll hidden within the confines. These chance encounters forged connections and ruptured bonds across time, but it was the landscape itself that held the key to their interconnectedness.

The landscape of Underhill was a tapestry of contrasts, threatened by the encroachment of property development and dotted with the pylons whose feet had been buried deep within the moor. Tom Cox's masterful debut novel seamlessly blends his deep affection for music, nature, and folklore, creating a psychedelic and captivating exploration of village life and the countryside that sustains it.

Through his vivid prose and meticulous attention to detail, Cox paints a vivid portrait of Underhill, its inhabitants, and the surrounding landscape. He weaves together a tapestry of stories that evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia, reminding us of the enduring power of human connections and the delicate balance between tradition and modernity.

In Underhill, Cox explores the complexities of village life, from the tight-knit community that thrives amidst the rolling hills to the conflicts that arise between generations. He delves into the intricate relationships between the land and its inhabitants, highlighting the ways in which the landscape shapes their lives and livelihoods.

The novel also delves into the darker aspects of human nature, exploring themes of greed, corruption, and the destructive impact of progress. Through his characters, Cox sheds light on the human capacity for both good and evil, challenging us to consider the moral implications of our actions and the impact we have on the world around us.

One of the most striking aspects of Underhill is its vivid portrayal of the landscape. Cox's descriptions are so vivid that they transport the reader to the heart of the village, allowing them to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the region. The landscape becomes a character in its own right, with its own history, secrets, and mysteries.

Through his meticulous research and attention to detail, Cox brings the landscape to life, capturing its beauty and its challenges. He weaves together a tapestry of natural elements, from the rustling leaves of the forest to the crashing waves of the sea, creating a sense of awe and wonder that is both captivating and humbling.

In addition to its exploration of village life and the countryside, Underhill is also a meditation on the power of music and the role it plays in shaping our lives. Cox's characters are deeply connected to music, whether they are musicians themselves or simply enthusiasts. Through their experiences and interactions, Cox explores the ways in which music can bring people together, heal wounds, and inspire creativity.

Underhill is a masterful debut novel that showcases Tom Cox's talent for storytelling and his deep appreciation for the natural world. It is a testament to the enduring power of human connections and the importance of preserving the beauty of the landscape that sustains us. Whether you are a fan of folk music, nature, or simply a lover of good storytelling, this novel is sure to captivate and inspire you.

Weight: 304g
Dimension: 197 x 131 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800182370