Dark fantasy , also called Fantasy Horror , is a subgenre of fantasy literary, artistic, and cinematic works that incorporates disturbing and frightening themes. The term is ambiguously used to describe stories that combine horror elements with one or other of the standard formulas of fantasy.
94-617: Spook's , published as The Last Apprentice in the United States, is a children's dark fantasy series by English author Joseph Delaney . It is published by imprints of Penguin Random House in the United Kingdom and HarperCollins in the United States. The series has been published in 30 countries, with sales exceeding 4.5 million copies. It started in 2004 with The Spook's Apprentice , which has been adapted into
188-540: A "dark fairy tale" fantasy film. Guillermo del Toro 's fantasy film Pan's Labyrinth (2006) has been described as a "sort of a dark spin on Alice in Wonderland ". The 2013 fantasy action role-playing game Dragon's Crown contains many elements of dark fantasy, such as werewolves, vampires, zombies, homonculi, and human-monster hybrids. Modern games from Japanese game development and publishing company FromSoftware are lauded as exceptional representations of
282-622: A 160-page play script, under the title The Spook's Apprentice - Play Edition . In the same year, a film adaptation of The Spook's Apprentice , titled Seventh Son , was released by Legendary Pictures ; it was directed by Sergey Bodrov . Ben Barnes starred as the main protagonist Tom Ward. The other cast members were Jeff Bridges as John Gregory (the Spook), Julianne Moore as Mother Malkin, Alicia Vikander as Alice Deane, Kit Harington as Billy Bradley, Djimon Hounsou as Radu (an original character), and Antje Traue as Bony Lizzie. In 2023,
376-457: A French graphic novel adaptation of The Spook's Apprentice was published under the title L'Épouvanteur, Tome 1: L'Apprenti épouvanteur . Pierre Oertel authored the text and Benjamin Bachelor provided the illustrations. The Spook's series has been published in 30 countries, with sales exceeding 4.5 million copies. Critical reception of the series has been positive, with two of the books in
470-545: A daring quest to the southwest of Ireland, the Spook, Tom Ward, and Alice Deane confront a formidable Celtic witch and her allies, the goat mages, who seek to resurrect the ancient deity Pan . As Tom grapples with the relentless forces of darkness, he stumbles upon the Destiny Blade, a weapon with a sinister appetite for bloodshed. Despite daunting odds, their alliance gains strength with the unexpected arrival of Grimalkin,
564-426: A dark, often brooding, tone. As a result, dark fantasy cannot be solidly connected to a defining set of tropes . The term itself may refer collectively to tales that are either horror-based or fantasy-based. Some writers also use "dark fantasy" (or " Gothic fantasy ") as an alternative description to "horror", because they feel the latter term is too lurid or vivid. Charles L. Grant is often cited as having coined
658-578: A destination for rock climbing and has been used for training by serious climbers such as Sir Chris Bonington . Cricket is played at White Coppice. The area was the location for the 2002 Commonwealth Games Mountain Biking competition. There is an extensive network of footpaths providing public access for hikers. Anglezarke Quarry was used for filming the TV series Jewel in the Crown in 1984. Anglezarke
752-410: A formidable witch assassin known for her allegiance to the dark. Together, they face formidable challenges and unearth dark secrets in their relentless pursuit to thwart the resurrection of Pan and preserve the fragile balance between light and shadow. Grimalkin, the formidable witch assassin, initially crosses paths with Tom Ward, whose fate is intertwined with becoming the apprentice to Master Gregory,
846-683: A god? Amidst despair, a glimmer of hope emerges as whispers suggest that the elusive creature lurking in the darkness may hold the key to salvation for the embattled County. The plot revolves around Brother Beowulf, a scribe for Spook Johnson, who embarks on a journey with Tom Ward and Alice Deane to rescue Johnson from a witch. Along the way, they encounter dangers and revelations about the nature of spooks and witches. As they confront various challenges and betrayals, including encounters with powerful beings like Circe , they must make difficult choices to protect themselves and their loved ones. Brother Wulf, apprentice to Spook Johnson, finds himself entangled in
940-596: A journey to confront the Pendle witches and confronts challenges that test his loyalty, courage, and resilience. The narrative unfolds with Tom Ward and Alice Deane navigating supernatural perils, including the resurgence of the Fiend and encounters with dark forces in Priestown. Simultaneously, Wulf undergoes a transformative journey, delving into his training with Hrothgar, confronting the bound wraiths, and ultimately facing
1034-400: A mission to find Grimalkin and Thorne, his companions in the fight against dark forces. As he navigates through Silverdale and Silvertown, facing traps and revelations, Wulf grapples with prophecies foretelling his demise and the machinations of trickster gods. Alongside Jenny and other allies, Wulf confronts demons and witches, engaging in battles that shape the fate of both the mortal realm and
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#17327977556051128-457: A play script, a feature film titled Seventh Son , and a French graphic novel. The main series consists of 20 books, with three arcs. The Wardstone Chronicles , follows Thomas "Tom" Ward's journey as he apprentices under John Gregory, the spook of the County, situated in a fictionalized Lancashire . Through his mentorship, Tom masters the skills to confront supernatural threats. However, as
1222-477: A serial killer would simply be horror. Stableford suggests that the type of horror conveyed by fantasy stories such as William Beckford 's Vathek and Edgar Allan Poe 's The Masque of the Red Death "is more aesthetic than visceral or existential", and that such stories should be considered "dark fantasies" rather than the "supernaturalized thrillers" of conventional horror fiction. Karl Edward Wagner
1316-449: A series of conflicts. Tom, guided by Gregory's teachings, confronts the witches using traditional tools like rowan wood and silver. Ultimately, Malkin is destroyed when Tom lures her into a pig pen, solidifying Tom's apprenticeship while leaving Alice as an uneasy ally in the ongoing battle against the forces of darkness. In the heart of Priestown's cathedral catacombs, the Spook and his apprentice, Tom Ward, confront their long-standing foe,
1410-530: A site of special archaeological interest. Evidence is present of a working floor from shelters in the Mesolithic period and flint implements found, dated to 8th millennium BC . Pikestones , a Neolithic chambered cairn , the only one in Lancashire, has an internal burial chamber with evidence of the original entrance and Round Loaf , a Neolithic to late- Bronze Age tumulus which can be seen from
1504-588: A structure in the common land. In 1339 Edward III granted free warren in Anglezarke to Thomas de Lathum. In 1298 Sir Robert Fitzhenry, Lord of Lathom gifted land as perpetual alms to Burscough Priory who earned income from rents, a confirmation charter was granted by Henry V in 1422. The Knights Hospitallers held land at Anglezarke. In 1406 John of Stanley Kt granted Anglezarke and its commons held in feoffment of William of Fulthorp Kt to Edward of Lathom senior in exchange for 1,000 marks. Anglezarke
1598-567: A tributary of the River Yarrow and after being taken over by Liverpool Corporation was occupied by the Chairman of Horwich Urban District Council in 1928–29. Waterman's Cottage is at the north end of Anglezarke Reservoir. Shorrocks was occupied by Abel Pilkington until his death in 1888; its ruins are by the bridge at White Coppice ponds at the north end of the reservoir. There is considerable archaeological evidence of Roman presence in
1692-429: A trilogy published from 2014 to 2017, continuing the adventures of Tom Ward, who has finished his apprenticeship and is now a Spook in his own right dedicated to fighting an unparalleled evil threatening the County, and the world. Throughout the trilogy, Tom mentors his own apprentice, Jenny, as they face daunting challenges together. This was then followed by Brother Wulf , published from 2020 to 2023; four books following
1786-518: A world of magic and danger. He encounters allies like Tom Ward, Alice Deane, and Tilda, as well as adversaries such as Circe and the Malkin clan. Through battles, trials, and sacrifices, Wulf discovers his own powers and learns to navigate the complexities of the supernatural realm. With the guidance of mentors like Hrothgar and Grimalkin, Wulf confronts dark forces and ultimately plays a crucial role in defeating Circe. Alongside his companions, he embarks on
1880-619: Is a memorial at the crash site, erected in June 1955 by the Horwich Rotary Club . Each year on Remembrance Sunday , a service is held at the Wellington Bomber Memorial at Lead Mines Clough, next to Limestone Brook. The old lead mines are believed to have played a role in the anti-invasion plans in the 1940s. Most unexploded ordnance was cleared in 1946. Large amounts of munitions have been recovered from
1974-592: Is derived from the Old Norse name Anlaf and the Old Norse erg , a ' hill pasture or shieling '. The elements together mean 'Anlaf's hill pasture'. In 1202 it was recorded as 'Andelevesarewe'. By 1225, this had become 'Anlavesargh'. In a deed of 1270, three variations were used: 'Arlawesarwe', 'Anlasargh' and 'Anlezark'. By 1559, 'Anlazarghe' was more common. Human activity around Anglezarke can be traced to pre-historic times. Rushey Brow on Anglezarke Moor has
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#17327977556052068-432: Is difficult to pin down. Gertrude Barrows Bennett has been called "the woman who invented dark fantasy". Both Charles L. Grant and Karl Edward Wagner are credited with having coined the term "dark fantasy"—although both authors were describing different styles of fiction. Brian Stableford argues "dark fantasy" can be usefully defined as subgenre of stories that attempt to "incorporate elements of horror fiction" into
2162-635: Is fed from the River Yarrow and Limestone Brook which have their sources on Anglezarke Moor. The three main reservoirs of the Rivington chain can be viewed at 'The Viewpoint', Moor Road, Anglezarke. The area was used for food production and military training in World War II . On 16 November 1943, the crew of a Wellington Bomber (Z8799) from 28 Operational Training Unit, flying from Blackpool to Manchester , were killed when it crashed just to
2256-402: Is in contrast to the traditional horror model, which focuses more on the victims and survivors. In a more general sense, dark fantasy is occasionally used as a synonym for supernatural horror , to distinguish horror stories that contain elements of the supernatural from those that do not. For example, a story about a werewolf or vampire could be described as dark fantasy, while a story about
2350-552: Is no longer operational. Millstones were produced at Black Coppice, where some remain. Coal was mined for local or personal use from drift mines where the coal seam outcropped from Fletcher Bank to Great Hill. The Margery Mine near White Coppice and the Sandbrook Mine in the Yarrow Valley were mined by six men in the 19th century. Drifts were opened up by locals during the 1926 General Strike . A cotton mill
2444-480: Is often credited for creating the term "dark fantasy" when used in a more fantasy-based context. Wagner used it to describe his fiction about the Gothic warrior Kane . Since then, "dark fantasy" has sometimes been applied to sword and sorcery and high fantasy fiction that features anti-heroic or morally ambiguous protagonists. Another good example under this definition of dark fantasy is Michael Moorcock 's saga of
2538-595: Is part of the Chorley parliamentary constituency, which elected Lindsay Hoyle as member of parliament for the Labour party at the 2010 General Election. Anglezarke covers 2,793 acres of high moorland on the western slopes of the West Pennine Moors reaching about 1,000 feet above sea level. Anglezarke is a settlement of scattered farmhouses with no village centre. The hamlet of White Coppice , where there
2632-479: Is popular with walkers and tourists; it lies in the West Pennine Moors in Lancashire, sandwiched between the moors of Withnell and Rivington , and is close to the towns of Chorley , Horwich and Darwen . At the 2001 census it had a population of 23, but at the 2011 census the population was included within Heapey civil parish. The area was subjected to depopulation after the reservoirs were built. Anglezarke
2726-500: Is read by Daniel Weyman . The US audiobooks were produced by Harper Audio . Christopher Evan Welch read books 1 through 10, and he was joined by Angela Goethals in reading Book 11. Welch also read the short story collection The Spook's Tale And Other Horrors . Welch died of lung cancer in 2013. Angela Goethals read Book 12 and Alexander Cendese read Book 13. In 2014, Stephen Delaney, Joseph Delaney's son, along with his father, published an adaption of The Spook's Apprentice into
2820-425: Is sometimes used for "darker" fiction written by authors best known for other styles of fantasy; Raymond Feist 's Faerie Tale and Charles de Lint 's novels written as Samuel M. Key would fit here. Roald Dahl 's novel The Witches (and its film adaptations) is described as dark fantasy. Dahl's poetic reworking of " Cinderella " (which features in his poetry collection Revolting Rhymes ) sees him upend
2914-535: The Fiend , the father of all evil, for all eternity. The County referenced in the series is based on Lancashire in the North of England . Various County fictional towns are thinly-veiled modern day cities; for example, the town of Priestown is based on Preston (where the author was born); Caster is Lancaster ; Black Pool is Blackpool ; Chipenden is Chipping . The first arc was followed by The Starblade Chronicles ,
Spook's - Misplaced Pages Continue
3008-528: The albino swordsman Elric . The fantasy work of H. P. Lovecraft , Clark Ashton Smith and their emulators have been specified as "dark fantasy", since the imaginary worlds they depicted contain many horror elements. Dark fantasy is occasionally used to describe fantasy works by authors whom the public primarily associates with the horror genre. Examples of these are Stephen King 's The Dark Tower series, Peter Straub 's Shadowland and Clive Barker 's Weaveworld . Alternatively, dark fantasy
3102-432: The buggane 's wrath if found guilty. Lord Barrule, a formidable shaman aligned with the buggane, adds to their peril. However, their challenges escalate with the return of Bony Lizzie, driven by a vengeful quest against the Spook for her years of imprisonment in his garden's pit. Amidst the chaos and looming threats, the trio must navigate treacherous alliances and confront the darkness that threatens to consume them all. In
3196-583: The 17th century, the Standishes purchased rights to the manor. In 1693 Dame Margaret Standish and her son Sir Thomas petitioned the House of Lords against Hugh Willoughby, 12th Baron Willoughby of Parham for the redemption of a mortgage on the manor and lead mines. In 1721, Sir Thomas Standish leased common land near White and Black Coppice to Sir Henry Hoghton of Hoghton Tower for 21 years. Sir Richard Standish's descendants had inherited an interest in
3290-416: The 20th century Liverpool Corporation acquired a large part of the land to protect the Rivington water supply and many properties were demolished, leaving only one or two working farms. The Manor House, now a Grade II Listed building , was formerly known as High Bullough, the name is derived from the family name of Bullough. It has a 1604 date stone and other stones inscribed "RS", "W S" and "WL 1778". In
3384-637: The Anglezarke moors which were extensively used by the military through the Second World War, with military use extending into the early Cold War period when reservists were given use of 1000 acres for military training by the government despite opposition from locals. Until the early 19th century, Anglezarke was a township in the ancient parish of Bolton le Moors , itself part of the hundred of Salford in Lancashire . In 1837, Anglezarke joined with other townships (or civil parishes ) in
3478-469: The Bane to aid their cause. With the Spook imprisoned and facing execution, Tom, aided by Alice and the Bane, must rescue his mentor and lift Priestown's curse. Alice, too, grows to fear the Bane's influence, aligning with Tom and the Spook to devise a plan against it. In a final showdown, Tom and Alice confront the Bane, with Alice making a crucial plea for their safety. Seizing the opportunity, Thomas vanquishes
3572-457: The Bane, a formidable creature undefeated by the Spook. However, their battle is complicated by the arrival of the Quisitor, an enforcer hunting those who dabble in dark arts. Meanwhile, Alice Deane strikes a perilous pact with the Bane, feeding it her blood and risking total control. Despite the Spook's apprehension, Tom's deepening friendship with Alice draws them closer, even as she manipulates
3666-477: The Bane, liberating Priestown from its malevolent grip. As winter settles in, the Spook is disturbed by the unexpected arrival of a stranger, prompting a hasty relocation from Chipenden to the winter house at Anglezarke , much to Tom's confusion. The winter residence, shrouded in darkness, harbours a cellar teeming with bound witches and boggarts, adding to its ominous aura. As the cold months pass, Tom delves deeper into his master's history, unravelling secrets about
3760-511: The Dark. Tom soon discovers that most of John Gregory's apprentices have failed for various reasons, including being killed in the process of learning how to be a Spook. As the arc progresses, the focus expands to other characters such as the young witch Alice Deane and the witch assassin Grimalkin. Overall, the series develops the plotline of Tom being destined to save the world or be tortured by
3854-442: The Fiend once and for all. As Slither and Nessa navigate the dangers that surround them, they find themselves entangled in a deadly game of survival amidst Grimalkin's relentless pursuit and the looming shadow of darkness. Alice Deane, the steadfast companion of Tom Ward, embarks on a harrowing journey into the heart of darkness. Having battled alongside the Spook and Tom Ward against malevolent forces, Alice now finds herself alone in
Spook's - Misplaced Pages Continue
3948-515: The Fiend's reign ends, Tom grapples with the aftermath, seeking solace in protecting the County and honouring the legacy of his fallen mentor, John Gregory. Amidst the turmoil, Tom's journey unfolds with themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the enduring resilience of the human spirit against the encroaching darkness. Tom Ward assumes the mantle of the Chippenden Spook after his mentor John Gregory's death. Tom faces new challenges, including
4042-488: The Fiend's severed head, a pivotal component essential for their mission's success. Grimalkin's lethal skills and unwavering determination infuse the narrative with intrigue and intensity as they navigate the perilous journey ahead. The story unfolds with Tom Ward's visit to Malkin Tower, where he confronts the harrowing truth about the necessary steps to vanquish the Fiend once and for all, leaving him grappling with despair and
4136-462: The Fiend, is torn between his loyalty to his master, the Spook, and his duty to his mother, Mam, who reveals her identity as lamia with a complex past. As they journey to Greece to confront the Ordeen, Tom grapples with dark forces, including the Fiend's temptations and the use of dark magic by allies and enemies alike. Amidst betrayals, traps, and sacrifices, including Mam's ultimate sacrifice to stall
4230-578: The Kershaws in the 19th century, are located by a tributary of the River Yarrow which is 300 metres to the southwest. Jepson's Farm and Jepson's Gate are waypoints en route to Pikestones . The last occupants of Old Rachel's were the Evans family in the 1880s. Simms, was once a farm of 52 acres farmed by Samuel Pilkington according to voter records in the 19th century, located on a private track and footpath. The property got its water from Green Withins Brook ,
4324-576: The Kobalos incursion threatening the County. Alongside him is Jenny, a seventh daughter of a seventh daughter, who possesses unique magical abilities. As they confront a Kobalos mage terrorising the land, Tom must retrieve the Starblade, a powerful weapon buried with his mentor. Grimalkin, a former ally turned adversary, complicates matters with her vendetta against the Kobalos. Tom's journey unfolds amidst freezing temperatures and escalating danger, setting
4418-777: The Manor House sold land to the Chorley Water Company to build High Bullough Reservoir , the first reservoir in the area. Demand for stone increased with the building of the Anglezarke Reservoir , the largest in the Rivington Reservoir Chain, in the 1850s. This led to increased production at local quarries. Construction of the Yarrow Reservoir designed by Liverpool's Borough Engineer, Thomas Duncan, began in 1867. It
4512-476: The Mouldheel clan, he uncovers deep-seated secrets about his lineage and his mother's ties to dark forces. Through harrowing trials and sacrifices, Tom ultimately confronts the impending threat of the Fiend, defying grim prophecies and summoning courage to protect his loved ones and confront the darkness lurking within and beyond the County's borders. Sent north to be trained by Bill Arkwright, Tom Ward confronts
4606-620: The North of Winter Hill, on Hurst Hill , Anglezarke Moor. According to an eye-witness, the plane was disintegrating as it crashed and its impact "shook the ground". The plane was piloted by Flight Sergeant Joseph B Timperon of the RAAF , with the other fatalities being the RAF Sergeants Eric R Barnes (airbomber), Joseph B Hayston (airgunner), Robert S Jackson (navigator), George E Murray (navigator) and Matthew Mouncey (airgunner). There
4700-589: The Ordeen, Tom faces his destiny as a fighter against the Dark. Through Mam's letters and a final spiritual encounter, Tom finds closure and resolve to continue his apprenticeship, now with Alice Deane, the daughter of the Fiend, by his side, as they navigate the treacherous waters of the supernatural realm. As war engulfs the County, the Spook, Tom, and Alice Deane seek refuge on the perilous Isle of Mona, only to find themselves ensnared in its turmoil. The island's inhabitants are gripped by fear and suspicion, subjecting suspected witches to cruel tests and sentencing them to
4794-460: The Spook's insistence, Tom and Alice Dean embark on a mission to retrieve the trunks, only to find their family abducted by witches and held in Pendle . Amidst revelations about the Spook's past and the identity of his mysterious visitor, Father Stocks, Tom navigates a treacherous landscape where alliances shift and betrayals abound. As Tom confronts his family's captors, including Mistress Wurmalde and
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#17327977556054888-413: The Spook, Tom embarks on a perilous battle against overwhelming dark forces. However, the Spook's mistake, with its potentially dire consequences, threatens to tip the scales in favour of the darkness, testing the limits of Tom's resilience and challenging the collective strength of his allies against the looming shadow of the Fiend's influence. Tom Ward, confronted with the looming threat of the Ordeen and
4982-426: The Spook. Despite their initial adversarial encounter, Grimalkin's motivations are fueled by her relentless quest for vengeance against those responsible for her son's brutal demise. Driven by her personal vendetta, Grimalkin elects to ally herself with Tom and the Spook in their daring endeavour to bind the Fiend, a malevolent force threatening their world. Central to their strategy is the imperative task of safeguarding
5076-451: The adventures of Brother Wulf, a young noviciate monk, and Tom Ward. In the County, Thomas "Tom" Ward, the seventh son of a seventh son, becomes apprenticed to John Gregory, a Spook who combats supernatural beings like boggarts , ghosts , and witches . Despite warnings, Tom befriends Alice Deane, a conflicted witch with ties to dangerous relatives, including Mother Malkin and Bony Lizzie. Alice inadvertently aids Malkin's escape, setting off
5170-399: The area is dominated by the Anglezarke and Yarrow Reservoirs. Anglezarke's economy is primarily agricultural, with land used mostly for grazing. Some farmers have diversified into providing leisure and storage facilities for camping, caravanning and guest accommodation. Tourists are attracted by the historic landscape and scenery and access to a network of hiking trails. Anglezarke Quarry is
5264-761: The area to form the Chorley Poor Law Union which took responsibility for the administration and funding of the Poor Law in that area. In 1866, Anglezarke became a civil parish . It became part of the Chorley Rural Sanitary District from 1875 to 1894, and then part of the Chorley Rural District from 1894 to 1974. Since 1974, Anglezarke has been a civil parish of the Borough of Chorley . Anglezarke
5358-642: The books. The Last Apprentice: A Coven of Witches was illustrated by Tim Foley and The Spook's Bestiary was illustrated by Julek Heller. Unabridged audiobook versions of the series have been released in both the United Kingdom and the United States. The UK audiobooks were produced by Random House Audio . Jamie Glover read Book 1 and Will Thorp read Book 2. Thomas Judd read books 3 through 8, and books 10 and 13. Gabrielle Glaister read Book 9, Toby Longworth and Kate Harbour jointly read Book 11, and Annie Hemingway read Book 12. Random House Audio also produced an abridged version of The Spook's Apprentice which
5452-442: The chaos, the Spook's blood is spilled, and the malevolent Vampire God, Siscoi, is unleashed from the depths of darkness, escalating the perilous stakes they face. Slither, a creature devoid of humanity, roams beyond the protective confines of the County, preying upon unsuspecting humans by feasting on their blood as they sleep. When a local farmer passes away, Slither sees an opportunity to indulge in his sinister desires by targeting
5546-553: The corporation left them to become derelict, the population declined. The historic buildings and some prominent large stone-built homes were either demolished or were used as target practice in military training while the area was under military use in World War II until 1950. Often, remnants of shells and sometimes live ammo have been found in the ruins. The remote farms are now landmarks for walkers and geocachers . The remains of Lower and Higher Hempshaw's, farms inhabited by
5640-524: The dark fantasy genre, notably the Dark Souls series along with Bloodborne and later Elden Ring . Anglezarke Anglezarke is a sparsely populated civil parish in the Borough of Chorley in Lancashire , England. It is an agricultural area used for sheep farming and is also the site of reservoirs that were built to supply water to Liverpool . The area has a large expanse of moorland with many public footpaths and bridleways. The area
5734-452: The daunting challenge of destroying the Fiend. As the threads of their stories intertwine, themes of sacrifice, destiny, and the struggle against malevolent forces weave a gripping narrative that culminates in a climactic showdown against the darkness. The prologue sets the stage for his encounters with powerful entities like Golgoth, the Lord of Winter, and the enigmatic Loki . Wulf embarks on
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#17327977556055828-547: The early 20th century, Foggs Farm, close to Peewet Hall, was vacated. The land was farmed by the Cocker family in the 18th century and by the Pilkingtons in the early 19th century. After properties were taken over by Liverpool Corporation they rented them out but due to neglect of the buildings, high rents, lack of amenities and shift to more accessible employment in towns the old farms were difficult to let and became abandoned,
5922-427: The enigmatic visitor, revealed to be the Spook's arch-nemesis, Morgan Hurst, a necromancer , who seeks to resurrect an old god. The unfolding revelations shed light on the Spook's past and the intricate web of conflicts that define their ongoing struggle against dark forces. Tom's mother's departure to Greece marks a pivotal shift in his life as he discovers three trunks she left behind, meant only for him to open. Upon
6016-403: The farmer's daughters. However, the farmer strikes a deal with Slither: in exchange for safeguarding the younger girls, Slither is granted permission to claim the eldest daughter, Nessa, as he pleases. Thus begins a perilous journey fraught with treachery, where adversaries lurk at every corner. Among these foes is Grimalkin, the formidable witch assassin, relentlessly pursuing a means to obliterate
6110-476: The final hero blade and cryptic instructions to Tom, he is confronted with the weight of his responsibilities as the Spook's apprentice. However, secrets emerge, including Tom's mother's identity as the first lamia, shedding light on his family's tangled history. The discovery of the Wardstone's mysterious powers and ominous prophecies heightens the sense of impending doom, leading to a relentless pursuit to thwart
6204-438: The happy tale. Berserk , a manga and anime franchise by Kentaro Miura that debuted in 1989, is frequently noted as an example of the genre due to its depictions of extreme violence, moral ambiguity, apocalyptic storylines and anti-hero protagonists. Attack on Titan is a dark fantasy for its intense violence and the dystopian world it takes place in. Ridley Scott 's film Legend (1985) has been described as
6298-529: The heirs of the Shaw family being Edmund Cunliffe and John Grundy, tithes 11 Great Meadow and 21 kitchen meadow at Jepsons, occupied by William Berry. Richard Rainshaw Rothwell owned freehold on meadow at tithe 12, occupied by Mary Pilkington of Stones House. Richard Willis owned meadow land at tithes 13 and 14, occupiers were Thomas Pilkington of meadow now under the reservoir and Isabella Clayton at long meadow near Brook House. Meadow at Lester Mill, tithe 1, now under
6392-408: The looming darkness before it returns to the County, altering the world irreversibly. In the shadowy realm between earth and oblivion, an enigmatic assassin stalks, their identity and purpose shrouded in mystery. As the people of the County cower in fear of encroaching beasts determined to wage war on their land, the daunting question arises: How can they withstand adversaries empowered by the might of
6486-731: The manor from 1677, until in 1812, when the line came to an end. The extent of the Standish interests is illustrated in a large coloured map produced in 1774 for Sir Frank Standish by George Lang. The manor next passed to a distant cousin, Frank Hall, who assumed the name Standish and died without issue in 1840. Tithe records of 1850 show all land on which rent was due was to be paid to the Earl of Bradford . The tithes due from leases owned by William Standish at Anglezarke were for 88 acres 3 roods and 31 perches of meadow and other land and buildings with sub leases to various parties. Other landowners were
6580-399: The mineral to Germany, charging five guineas per ton. Leicester Mill Quarry, a major contributor to the economy in the 19th century producing gritstone flags, stone setts and kerbs for paving the streets of the industrialised towns. Between 1880 and 1920, quarry men, sett-makers and two blacksmiths were employed. Dressed stone was carted to Adlington station for transport. The quarry
6674-421: The narrative unfolds, Tom finds himself confronting an even greater peril: the Fiend . The Starblade Chronicles , extends the adventures of Tom Ward, now a Spook, battling a grave evil endangering the County and beyond. Tom mentors his apprentice, Jenny, amidst formidable challenges. Brother Wulf , features the exploits of Brother Wulf, a novice monk, and Tom Ward. There are also several related works set in
6768-402: The nature of heroism. The Wardstone Chronicles , was published from 2004 to 2013. In the United Kingdom, the hardbook editions were published by The Bodley Head , an imprint of Penguin , and paperbacks by Red Fox , an imprint of Random House . In the United States, it was published by Greenwillow , an imprint of HarperCollins . The Starblade Chronicles , was published from 2014 to 2017 by
6862-480: The neighbouring areas, it is believed lead was first mined during that time. Mining for lead was recommenced in 1692 by Sir Richard Standish in partnership with two farmers and a mining engineer and after several failures some lead was extracted. In 1694 Richard Standish declared in the Chancery Court that he could not sign over the mines to his wife as he was a tenant. After his death, his widow claimed
6956-412: The profits but lost the resultant court case and flooded the mines by diverting a stream. The mining operation restarted again and was expanded and in 1788–1789, 73 tons of lead were produced. In the 1790s copper and galena were produced. Production ended in 1837 when a lease, granted by Frank Hall Standish in 1824 to John Thompson of Wigan, Ironmaster was relinquished and the unsuccessful enterprise
7050-404: The relentless challenges of Arkwright's harsh tutelage in the haunted mill amidst treacherous marshlands. As Tom grapples with the rigorous training, the stakes escalate when the Fiend dispatches his formidable daughter, Morwena, a potent water witch, to obliterate Tom. Arkwright's error in judgement leaves Tom vulnerable, forcing him to confront his adversaries alone. With the aid of Alice Deane and
7144-405: The reservoir, was occupied and farmed by Roger Gerrard, alongside Mary Pilkington and her family, who are recorded at the old Lester Mill on the 1841 census. Properties at Anglezarke benefitted from rights in common on the moorland. Percival Sumner Mayhew bought the Standish share in 1898 and held rights to shoot game at the common near White and Black Coppice during his lifetime. At the turn of
7238-406: The resurgence of the Fiend. Despite valiant efforts, Tom faces heart-wrenching betrayals, including Alice's defection to the dark side under the influence of Lukrasta. With allies lost and adversaries closing in, Tom confronts formidable challenges, including a climactic battle against Lukrasta and the daunting task of preserving the County's fragile balance of light and shadow. As the dust settles and
7332-454: The route across Great Hill from White Coppice are scheduled monuments on Anglezarke Moor. Anglezarke was dependent on the barony of Manchester. Albert Grelley gave two oxgangs of land to Robert de Lathom for an annual rent of 3 shillings . Between 1230 and 1264, Robert son of Richard, Lord of Lathom, granted his land known as 'Swinlehehurst' to Burscough Priory. In 1270 Lord Robert de Lathom and Peter de Hepay were in dispute concerning
7426-452: The same publishers. Brother Wulf was published from 2020 to 2023 by Puffin , which is also an imprint of Penguin. The illustrator for the UK versions David Wyatt , providing the original series covers and the illustrations for each chapter. The US versions were illustratied by Patrick Arrasmith; in addition to the cover art, Arrasmith designed pen and ink drawings which precede every chapter in
7520-475: The same world, including two short story compilations, a bestiary , and two novellas. The first arc of the series titled The Wardstone Chronicles , published from 2004 to 2013, follows Thomas "Tom" Ward, the seventh son of a seventh son who is apprenticed to the County's spook, John Gregory; a master fighter of supernatural evil. The Spook gives Tom practical instruction on tackling ghosts , ghasts, witches , boggarts , and all manner of other things that serve
7614-793: The series making the ALSC's 2006 list of "Notable Videos/DVDs, Recordings, Software, and Subscription Services" and the YALSA's list of "Fabulous Films & Amazing Audiobooks for Young Adults" for 2009. The Spook's Apprentice was the winner of both the Sefton Book Award and the Hampshire Book Award , and was shortlisted for the Lancashire Book of the Year award. Dark fantasy A strict definition for dark fantasy
7708-418: The stage for the next chapter in the battle against darkness. In the aftermath of Tom Ward's death, despair grips those left behind as they face the impending threat of a dark army poised to plunge the world into eternal winter. With Tom gone, the pressing question looms: Who will step up to continue the battle against the forces of darkness? As time dwindles, the remaining allies must rally together to confront
7802-487: The standard formulae of fantasy stories. Stableford also suggests that supernatural horror set primarily in the real world is a form of " contemporary fantasy ", whereas supernatural horror set partly or wholly in " secondary worlds " should be described as "dark fantasy". Additionally, other authors, critics, and publishers have adopted dark fantasy to describe various other works. However, these stories rarely share universal similarities beyond supernatural occurrences and
7896-404: The supernatural domain. Amidst alliances and betrayals, Wulf's quest leads him to face Golgoth himself, culminating in a climactic showdown that tests his resolve and resourcefulness. With the epilogue hinting at the possibility of temporal manipulation and reflections on the consequences of altering the past, Wulf's odyssey comes full circle, leaving lingering questions about destiny, sacrifice, and
7990-653: The term "dark fantasy". Grant defined his brand of dark fantasy as "a type of horror story in which humanity is threatened by forces beyond human understanding". He often used dark fantasy as an alternative to horror , as horror was increasingly associated with more visceral works. Dark fantasy is sometimes also used to describe stories told from a monster 's point of view, or that present a more sympathetic view of supernatural beings usually associated with horror. Anne Rice 's The Vampire Chronicles , Chelsea Quinn Yarbro 's Saint-Germain , and Neil Gaiman 's The Sandman are early examples of this style of dark fantasy. This
8084-424: The treacherous realm of the dark. Unbeknownst to Tom, Alice harbours dark secrets from her past, haunting memories she hoped to leave behind forever. Now faced with the daunting task of acquiring the final weapon essential for vanquishing the Fiend, Alice confronts the daunting prospect of her own mortality. Failure to secure the weapon would plunge the world into perpetual darkness and despair, while success may demand
8178-436: The ultimate sacrifice—her own life at the hands of Tom. As Alice grapples with the encroaching darkness threatening to consume her, she must summon the strength to resist its insidious allure and prevent its malevolent grasp from overwhelming her completely. Tom Ward finds himself grappling with profound revelations and mounting threats as he navigates a treacherous path fraught with darkness and betrayal. As Alice Deane delivers
8272-532: The weight of his destiny. Subsequently, Tom and John Gregory are enticed to Todmorden under the guise of replenishing the Chipenden library's books, only to encounter a town plagued by fear and ominous foreboding after sundown. As they confront the lurking darkness, they find themselves embroiled in a desperate battle for survival against sinister forces, where even the formidable alliance of Tom, John Gregory, Alice Deane, and Grimalkin may prove insufficient. Amidst
8366-430: Was a cotton mill , is in the north-west corner, and Hempshaws, now in ruins, in the south-east. The township is crossed by a minor road on the western border from Rivington to Heapey . The underlying rocks are millstone grit and sandstones of the lower Lower Coal Measures . There were several quarries whose stone was used for road-making. The source of the River Yarrow is at Will Narr on Anglezarke Moor. The west of
8460-431: Was abandoned. Lead Mines Clough had numerous shafts up to 240 feet deep and on the site was a smelting mill, a smithy and a waterwheel provided power. There are remains of bell pits at Dean Brook and spoil heaps containing traces of barites, calcite and galena. The mines were sealed in 1930 but there has been speculation that the site was part of a secret operation in 1940. The mineral witherite ( barium carbonate )
8554-509: Was an assignment of the manor of Anlazarghe by Richard Chorlton of Wythington, yeoman, to Richard Banyster of Brightmeate and Asheton Nuttall of Farnworth, gents in 1602, the indenture references earlier documents showing possession by the Earls of Derby and Earl of Northumberland. Other documents show the Earl purchased former church land from the government after dissolution of the monasteries. In
8648-505: Was built by the stream at White Coppice. At first it was powered by a waterwheel but later the mill lodge was built to provide water for the steam engine. Around 1900 the mill was owned by Alfred Ephraim Eccles a supporter of the Temperance movement . Another small mill was built on the bank of the River Yarrow at the end of Bradley Wood of which no trace remains. Roger Lester lived in Anglezarke in 1769. In 1850, Thomas Pilkington of
8742-424: Was discovered in spoil from the mines in the 18th century. It was distinct from other sources as it contained above two per cent of carbonate of strontites. Up to this time witherite was considered worthless and used as rat poison by locals. Josiah Wedgwood used it to manufacture Jasper ware and tried to keep the source secret, but after a visit in 1782 by two Frenchmen, a local farmer, James Smithells, exported
8836-621: Was joined with Rivington, Hempshaws and Foulds through the founding of the Rivington Church and school by royal charter in 1566. Records are preserved at Lancashire Records Office of the court baron of the Manor of Anglezarke. In 1600, the William Earl of Derby , Edward Rigbye, Thomas Ireland and Michaell Doughtye of Lathom, sold the manor to London merchant, Frances Mosseley and Edward Mosseley of Grays Inn for £400. There
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