Netherwood by Jake Arnott - Contemporary Horror Novel

Netherwood by Jake Arnott

Experience a sensuous, vivid, and unsettling modern gothic tale in Netherwood, the latest novel from acclaimed author Jake Arnott. This contemporary horror story delves into the dark secrets of a seaside town and the chilling influence of the occult.

Synopsis:

Exhausted by the pressures of London life, Justine and Adam seek a fresh start in the coastal town of Hastings. They move into the former home of John Malachy, a notorious local occultist whose life was shadowed by the presence of Aleister Crowley. As they settle in, a bolted door in their basement reveals a hidden cave, drawing Adam in with an enchanting pull while filling Justine with apprehension. Inside, they discover a witch bottle, unearthing disturbing rumors about Malachy's obsession with chaos magic and his association with the 80s band Sacred Disease, who were rumored to experiment with blood magic and occult forces. Seeking answers, they consult James Blackwood, a local occultist and former member of Sacred Disease, who warns them against tampering with ancient rituals and buried secrets. However, Adam's curiosity leads him to open the witch bottle, unleashing a sinister chain of events. Adam's behavior shifts, his artistic obsession becoming unnatural, while Justine is haunted by the screams of a young woman emanating from the cave. The narrative continues as Justine finds herself pregnant once more, facing the escalating horrors within their new home.

About the Author:

Jake Arnott is the author of several critically acclaimed novels, including The Long Firm, which won the Betty Trask Prize, and True Crime, which was shortlisted for the Booker Prize.

Key Themes:

• Modern Gothic Horror
• Occultism and Chaos Magic
• Superstition vs. Reality
• Marital Strife and Psychological Thriller

Specifications:

• Author: Jake Arnott
• Publisher: Titan Books
• Release Date: August 25, 2026
• Language: English
• Print Length: 272 pages
• Binding: Hardcover
• Dimensions: 13 x 5.5 x 19.8 cm
• Weight: 255 g
• ISBN-10: 1835416594
• ISBN-13: 978-1835416594

Netherwood is an ideal read for fans of Andrew Michael Hurley and Francine Toon, offering a deeply atmospheric and chilling exploration of the darkness that lies beneath the surface.