The Folk Keeper

This dramatic tale of betrayal, murder and romance draws on old legends about seal folk with exciting results. Corinna Stonewall is a 15-year-old orphan who possesses a dangerous gift. She is a Folk Keeper, responsible for absorbing the attack of the savage Folk who dwell in the cellars of the Foundling Home where she lives, disguised as a boy. Through observing the correct rituals and by making careful sacrifices of choice food, she can prevent the Folk from spoiling the milk and ruining the crops. However, there are many mysteries that Corinna does not understand about herself. Where are her parents? Why does her hair grow two inches every night? Why does she long for the taste of raw fish? Then she is taken to Marblehaugh Park, a huge estate at Cliffsend which seems to hold a link with her unknown past.... The first few pages of this captivating book whisk you immediately into a magical world, although Corinna is no ethereal creature, but a feisty, courageous girl whose rite of passage is entirely believable for the modern reader. Billingley's eloquent style is a joy for adults and evokes such an atmosphere of fear and longing that readers of all ages will keep turning the pages eagerly. Ages 10+ (Kirkus UK)