is a thriller novel by the British broadcaster and author Simon Mayo . Published in 2024, the story is a modern-day psychological thriller that centers on a family's unraveling after they relocate to a remote, historically charged area of England. Plot Overview
The narrative follows the story of a couple who move to a secluded cottage in the —a location with a long history of folklore and industrial isolation. They hope for a fresh start, but their peace is shattered when their young daughter begins exhibiting strange, inexplicable behaviors. Witchcraft Sample By Simon Mayo
: A core element of the book is the fear of being unable to protect or understand one's own child, a theme common in psychological horror. is a thriller novel by the British broadcaster
The title refers to a "sample" of historical witchcraft practices or beliefs that seem to bleed into the modern day. As the family investigates the odd occurrences, they find themselves caught between rational explanations—such as psychological distress or local hostility—and the more terrifying possibility of a supernatural inheritance tied to the land's dark past. Key Themes and Elements They hope for a fresh start, but their
: The Forest of Dean serves as more than just a backdrop; its dense woods and isolated communities create a sense of claustrophobia and "folk horror."
: Consistent with Mayo's interest in research (often seen in his previous work, Itch ), the book delves into how one might try to "sample" or quantify the unexplainable using modern tools. About the Author