Somerset’s mystical allure has spawned a new fantasy series by local musician and storyteller, Alexander Paul Burton. The first installment, The Hollow Vale: Act I of The Tharion Cycle, draws from the county’s landscapes, history, and folklore.
Set in a reimagination of Somerset during the decline of Roman Britain, the tale weaves a lyrical and mythical narrative deeply rooted in memory, silence, and queer identity.
Inspired by Somerset’s rich history and legends, Aqua Sularia mirrors the sacred Roman city of Bath. Here, the waters are believed to encapsulate the past’s memories and the future’s whispers.
The protagonist, Caelwyn, embarks on her journey from Brent Knoll and grapples with visions that challenge her perception of fate.
Glastonbury Tor, steeped in myth and history, becomes a focal point for those in pursuit of the elusive last bell. Its association with King Arthur and Avalon blends into the narrative’s unique mythology, depicting the Tor as a site where worlds converge and the mystical veil thins, infusing it with an enigmatic and spiritual significance.
Though now based in Toronto, the author’s work remains steeped in Somerset’s essence. The Hollow Vale: Act I is accessible online through Amazon, Blackwell’s, and other outlets, and will soon be stocked at Waterstones, Foyles, and various independent bookstores across the UK.