The hob, with his unintentional wit and well-timed comic relief, is the true standout of the cast.

'Walsh writes with a sure and steady hand, deftly blending the historical details of medieval monastery life with the magical elements of the mythical supernatural creatures. ' - School Library Journal, starred review By the close of the novel, readers are hoping for more, and the ending suggests that more is to come.

With fascinating attention to detail and an edgy battle between evil and good, Walsh sweeps readers almost effortlessly into another time and place. Understatedly tender and mystical yet solid.' - Kirkus, starred review *'Walsh described the environment with calm sensory detail, giving readers a palpably damp, frigid winter. New York Public Library '100 Best Books for Reading and Sharing'Ī 2011 USBBY Outstanding International Book *Includes a timetable of daily life in the abbey, a glossary of monastic terms, and a sneak peek at the chilling sequel THE CROWFIELD DEMON! What does this mystery have to do with the cryptic brotherhood of monks Will serves? What does it have to do with the boy himself? When two cloaked figures darken the church's doorway and start demanding answers, Will is drawn into a dangerous world of Old Magic. A mythical being, doomed by an ancient curse. Trapped and wounded, it's a hobgoblin, who confesses a horrible secret: Something is buried deep in the snow, just beyond the graveyard. Sent into the forest to gather firewood for the medieval abbey where he's an apprentice, Will hears a cry for help, and comes upon a creature no bigger than a cat. If the deepest secret has been spoken, can the deadliest curse be broken? *'Suspenseful and spooky.with an edgy battle between good and evil.' -School Library Journal, starred review *'A wondrous mystery.' -Kirkus, starred review

The crowfield demon