The Shepherd of St Just

The Shepherd of St Just is the latest novel by Edwin Page, author of Where Seagulls Fly, Song of the Sea and The Hanging Tree. Set in the far south-west of England in 1297, it is a tale of friendship, deceit and revenge that will captivate readers. Kerra lives in the settlement of St Just on the western tip of Cornwall. Contrary to her mother's warnings, she becomes intrigued by a shepherd who lives in a vale east of the village. Known as Estren Onan, 'Strange One, ' he is said to dwell with spirits and is avoided by all. Kerra is drawn to the shepherd by the hope that he may be able to communicate with her father, who vanished without a trace the previous winter. They strike up a friendship as her mother becomes increasingly involved with a trapper named Breoc, who is not all he seems to be. Meanwhile, a huntsman named Wynfred of Wales tracks a wolf westward, intent upon revenge for the scars it has left upon his cheek. A sense of intrigue draws the reader on as the tale unfolds, one infused with the myth and mystery of western Cornwall. The threads of the story develop in a wonderfully organic way, flowing towards the conclusion, where they draw together beautifully. The Shepherd of St Just is a historical novel with an engaging feeling of authenticity and a sense of wonder at the natural world. A fulfilling read, it is sure to be treasured by those who find themselves lost to its landscapes and the drama that unfolds within. 'The lead characters are thoroughly described, and beautifully intertwined... an excellent book. The lyrical and almost poetic use of language is a pleasure to read, feels authentic, and makes it easy to visualize the environments and people described. Edwin Page is clearly a writer of talent with an eye for detail' - Historical Novel Societ