An acclaimed Hitchin author has been delighted by a renowned independent store in our town centre stocking his latest book.

Hitchin's Matt Adcock has seen his successful new book showcased by Bucklersbury independent Harvest Moon.

The story is set in Hitchin - about the River Hiz and the witches that were drowned in it.

The hero is a journalist investigating the river's history who has to call on his ex-special forces friend to try and save the day when things get sinister.

Speaking to Hitchin Nub News modest Matt explained: "I've had a lot of fun researching the slightly grim history of Hitchin for this quirky short story. I have had some advanced unedited versions of The Hertfordshire Drownings printed so can get feedback for editing from local people. 

"It's good to be supporting local businesses too we share the money from sales. The first stock drop sold out so be quick if you want one.

"I'd love to hear people make of it - good, bad or ugly and I might well quote anything you say on a promo card or cover on future.

"It's pretty rum stuff. I've always been a fan of scary stories and here I get to borrow from authors like James Herbert and Clive Barker - using the journo investigating motif.

"One advance reader said it reminded them of Christopher Brookmyer too, his darkly comic books were definitely inspiration for me so that bodes well."

A limited number of first draft copies are now on sale for £2.99 - buyers get a free unique jelly skull with every purchase and an art card by local artist Katie Hounsome.

The book is also available to buy in person at the Hitchin Information Office and shop in Churchyard.

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Popular Matt's debut sci-fi novel Complete Darkness topped sales charts and was chosen as one of the 'top books of year' by UK site: Den of Geek - as well as become a comic.

The dark, 'near-future' story was developed into a comic format during the lockdown with artwork by Northern Irish artist Karl Brown.

Find out more here