The Naked Light

Florence has been summoned to live with her widowed brother-in-law and wayward niece in Haltington, a village with something uncanny in the air. According to locals, the chalk face carved into the hillside protects them from malevolent spirits. So long as it is maintained, all will be well.

The First World War has decimated the men of the village, and when the Face’s last caretaker dies, her sons both lost in France, there is nobody to replace her. Still, it’s only an old wives’ tale. Isn’t it?

Kit is an artist – unconventional, androgynous and traumatised by the events of the war. She seeks peace, and a muse – will she find both in the shape of Florence?

Under the chalk, something is stirring…

Please note this copy has a repaired tear on the spine and light creases on the cover.

ISBN: 9780008424077

Size: Trade Paperback, 375 pages

Publisher: The Borough Press

Published: 2025