A new horror novel set on the Isle of Wight has been published this week.
‘The Wolverton Demons’ by VJ Nash is a fantasy horror novel that weaves Isle of Wight folklore with strange events from the Island’s past.
Although the story is set in the present day, it draws heavily on historical myths and legends to create an atmospheric and chilling narrative.
A protagonist with everything to lose
At the heart of the novel is Elizabeth ‘Bess’ Russell, The Regulator for the British Treasury. Her role is to protect the country from paranormal threats, no matter the cost.
This time, however, that cost may be her very soul.
Mystery and the supernatural collide
The novel’s plot revolves around a series of unsettling questions.
Who is trapping demons inside artefacts and selling them as Isle of Wight holiday souvenirs?
What does antique dealer Thomas Attrill want with Elizabeth Russell’s dead body?
Why do the Island’s ancient spirits yearn for Bess to join them in the mythical ‘Other Place’?
And how is it all connected to the destruction of the village of Wolverton, which was wiped from existence 700 years ago?
Isle of Wight locations inspire the novel
Although the book is a work of fiction, its settings are firmly rooted in real Isle of Wight locations.
VJ Nash researched the novel by exploring the Island extensively, walking from Bembridge to Brading via Centurion’s Copse, visiting Godshill church, Shanklin and Sandown, and even kayaking from Seaview to St Helens Fort.
A long-standing connection to the Island
VJ Nash has been visiting the Isle of Wight regularly for the last twelve years, since his late father’s partner moved to the Island.
Although she has since passed away, his frequent visits sparked a deep appreciation for the area that continues to inspire his work.
He says,
“As a writer, I find it an inspiring place and have thought up the plots for three books (including this one and the one I’m about to start writing) while walking the beaches from Seaview to Priory Bay.”
A rising name in British horror fiction
While Nash is an independent author, he has already seen notable success.
His previous book, ‘Malevolent’, spent three months in Amazon’s Top 20 British Horror Fiction list in 2024, peaking at number four.
With a 4.4-star rating on Amazon, the book was well received by readers and established Nash as a rising talent in the genre.
A standalone sequel steeped in Isle of Wight legend
‘The Wolverton Demons’ serves as a follow-up to ‘Malevolent’ and features some recurring characters, but Nash has designed it to work as a standalone story.
With its deep ties to Isle of Wight history and folklore, the novel may appeal to both horror fans and those with an interest in the Island’s rich mythology.
‘The Wolverton Demons’ is available now in paperback (£10) via Amazon, or free to Kindle unlimited subscribers.
