Introduction

The House on the Hill has been abandoned for as long as James can remember. So when he discovers Webster, a drifter, hiding there, he’s instantly curious about the story behind the homeless man. What is he running from?

The Curse and the Journey

Afflicted by a dark curse, Webster is no longer who he used to be. But there is said to be a cure and it might just be that by helping Webster, James will find some solace of his own. Together they embark on a journey, not knowing that what they discover will impact them both in ways they never imagined...

Reviews and Praise

"Beautifully written in smooth, elegant prose… an absolute delight to read. I felt utterly surrounded by the story as I read... I wanted it to go on forever." BookBag

"I was totally lost in the story of James. If you loved Skellig by David Almond, then this is the book for you." Serendipity Reviews

"A definite must-read for fans of David Almond's Skellig… Follow James through a journey of grief, loss, despair and survival - it’s worth it." Book Angel Booktopia

"exciting, compelling, thought-provoking... an absolute joy to read." BZFB

"A gripping and atmospheric debut from Rupert Wallis." So Many Books, So Little Time

"A book that you can't stop thinking about, that you have to tell people about - the mark of a truly powerful novel. A staggering debut..." Writing From The Tub

"The chief villain is fantastically creepy… fast-paced" SFX

"Intense, dark, brooding and highly adventurous. To me it screamed Neil Gaiman." Fiction Fascination

"Wonderfully descriptive and evoked real sinister and dark atmospheres... a mysterious dark tale of hope, faith, family and trust." Dark Readers