Robin Craig Clark

Heart of the Earth Robin Craig Clark

In the Real World, Magic Happens

Societies torn apart. A kingdom on the brink of extinction. Who or what on earth can save the smallfolk of Nemeton from their approaching demise?

A work of magical realism, Heart of the Earth is an enchanting and enthralling story for this age, and in the age to come.

Peter Goodhope is a master of pen and ink, a painter of fairy-tale landscapes. Secret forests, hidden valleys and cloud-covered mountains become inhabited with animals he'd known as a child; owls under moonlight, badgers in the woods at dawn, foxes posturing on the evening hills--human-like in their pose, bringing a magical realism to his work. But when Peter returns home to his childhood village of Nemeton, he soon discovers the charming, once peaceful countryside he so fondly remembers, may be hiding something more maleficent.

Looking for inspiration to begin writing his book, unlikely allies enter Peter's life in the form of woodland creatures, seeking his help to defeat evil poachers decimating the wildlife. Peter must enter their world, learn to speak their language, and prepare the wandering band for an unearthly, climactic battle. Can Peter find the key to their salvation? Does he have the resources to save the animals from their darkest hour and restore peace to the land? The boundary between what is real and what is imagined begins to blur.

One of the endearing qualities of Heart of the Earth is its sense of nostalgia, both for a closer relationship with nature and a simpler, old-time England--a land steeped in Celtic lore and legend.

A timely allegorical novel on friendship, acceptance, and cooperation, speaking for all creatures great and small, offering inspiration and hope in uncertain times.