The Witches of Hogsback is a mystery thriller that follows Zelda, a high school student who signs up for a hiking trip to Hogsback, a small town in the Eastern Cape. She is an outsider, someone who isn’t usually part of the school’s hiking group, but she needs to get away for a while.
“Hogsback is a place where magic happens, where the impossible becomes possible and where anything can happen if you believe hard enough.”
In Hogsback, she becomes involved in probing the death of Stephan Dale, a local teenager who was rumoured to be part of a group of witches. Zelda faces peril, deceit and dark secrets as she tries to discover the truth behind Stephan’s death and the mysterious witches of Hogsback.
“There’s a fine line between being brave and being stupid, and you’re about to cross it.”
The novel is a captivating and tense read that will keep you hooked until the end. The author creates a vivid and atmospheric setting that blends the natural beauty of Hogsback with the spooky and supernatural elements of the story. Having visited Hogsback myself, I could so clearly picture all the scenes.
Zelda is a courageous and determined protagonist who does not shy away from challenging the status quo and seeking justice.
“You can’t judge a book by its cover, or a person by their appearance. You never know what lies beneath the surface.”
The plot is full of twists that will keep you guessing. The novel also explores themes such as friendship, loyalty, betrayal, identity and prejudice.
“Some secrets are better left buried. Some mysteries are better left unsolved. Some people are better left alone.”
The Witches of Hogsback is a novel that will appeal to fans of mystery, thriller and paranormal genres. It is a book that will keep you entertained, intrigued, in suspense and inspired. It is a book that will make you think about the hidden mysteries and magic of the world around you. It is aimed at the Young Adult market, and it is a good fit. It is always lovely to read this genre in a South African milieu.
With thanks to Lapa Publishers for the opportunity to read this book!
About the author
Sally Partridge Sally Partridge – Award-winning South African novelist