Set in Colonial New England, Slewfoot is a tale of magic and mystery, of triumph and terror as only dark fantasist Brom can tell it.
A spirited young Englishwoman, Abitha, arrives at a Puritan colony betrothed to a stranger – only to become quickly widowed when her husband dies under mysterious circumstances. All alone in this pious and patriarchal society, Abitha fights for what little freedom she can grasp onto, while trying to stay true to herself and her past.
Enter Slewfoot, a powerful spirit of antiquity newly woken ... and trying to find his own role in the world. Healer or destroyer? Protector or predator? But as the shadows walk and villagers start dying, a new rumor is whispered: Witch.
Both Abitha and Slewfoot must swiftly decide who they are, and what they must do to survive in a world intent on hanging any who meddle in the dark arts.
Complete with 8 pages of Brom’s mesmerizing full-color artwork and chapter illustrations throughout, his latest book is sure to delight.
... Read moreOkay, fellow dark fantasy lovers, let's really dive into Brom's 'Slewfoot'! I picked this up because I'd heard so much about Brom's unique blend of gritty storytelling and incredible art, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. This book isn't just a story; it's an experience that pulls you into a world both beautiful and terrifying.
One of the first things that struck me, even before I opened the first page, was the Slewfoot Brom cover art. It's just iconic. I mean, picturing that red-haired figure with goat legs, perched on a broomstick against a full moon, clutching a skull adorned with roses – it perfectly sets the tone for the bewitchery within. It hints at the wild, untamed magic that Abitha stumbles upon in the rigid, unforgiving world of Colonial New England.
Speaking of Abitha, she's such a compelling character. Her journey from a newly widowed Englishwoman, left vulnerable in a Puritan colony, to someone fighting for her very soul and freedom, is incredibly well-crafted. She's not just a victim; she's a survivor, and watching her navigate the suffocating paranoia of witch hunts is genuinely gripping. Then there's Slewfoot himself. He's not your typical villain or hero; he's this ancient, powerful spirit trying to find his place, blurring the lines between protector and predator. Their interconnected fates are what truly drive the narrative forward and make you question who the real monsters are. I loved exploring the complexities of Slewfoot characters like these.
But we absolutely have to talk about the Slewfoot art and Brom Slewfoot illustrations. Seriously, these aren't just pretty pictures; they're an integral part of the storytelling. Every few chapters, you're treated to Brom's mesmerizing full-color artwork, and honestly, they elevate the entire reading experience. They don't just depict scenes; they deepen the mood, adding a layer of gothic beauty and dark wonder to the text. I found myself lingering on each piece, soaking in the details, and letting them fuel my imagination. It's rare to find an author who can weave such intricate prose with such stunning visual storytelling, and Brom masters it. These Slewfoot book illustrations are a huge reason why this novel stands out.
If you're looking for a dark fantasy that challenges your perceptions, offers a deep dive into human nature, and is visually breathtaking, then Slewfoot by Brom is an absolute must-read. It’s more than just a tale of magic; it’s a commentary on fear, identity, and what it truly means to be free. The way Brom blends historical elements with ancient folklore is seamless, creating a world that feels both familiar and terrifyingly new. I've even seen some amazing Slewfoot fanart online, which just goes to show how much this book resonates with people. It leaves you thinking long after you've turned the final page, wondering about the choices Abitha and Slewfoot made, and the thin line between good and evil. Highly, highly recommend picking up a Slewfoot paperback and experiencing this masterpiece for yourself!