I am a fan of the darker side of literature, particularly folk horror and magic realism and Starve Acre did not disappoint! The first chapter drew me in straight away, providing a portrait of the grieving protagonist who is painted as a rather tragic character. This man's strange efforts to excavate nearby land in treacherous conditions will keep you reading! I found this first chapter threw up so many questions for me I was hooked. The characters are well-considered and believable. The author also has a talent for writing beautiful descriptions of the natural world, particularly when deserted and snowy. Starve Acre is a well-paced, mystical and thought-provoking exploration of grief - what's not to love?