The Hallows

Title: The Hallows

Author: Michael Scott

Published in: 1995

Date read: 27th May 2008

Score: 4/5

Genre: Horror, Psychological, Supernatural, Thriller

Plot: (Warning, may contain spoilers):
"The Hallows" by Michael Scott, published in 1995, is a standalone horror novel that plunges into a world where ancient, powerful magical relics hold the key to either salvation or unimaginable destruction. It's a dark tale that blends folklore with contemporary terror, focusing on a desperate race against time.

The core premise revolves around Thirteen Hallows, ancient artifacts of immense magical power. For 51 years, these relics have been carefully guarded and kept separate by an order of Guardians, whose sole purpose is to ensure that the Hallows are never brought together. The fear is that if reunited, their combined power could unleash cataclysmic forces or open a gateway to a terrifying, demonic realm.

The story begins when one of these Hallows, Dyrnwyn, the sword of Rhydderch, is unexpectedly discovered after being buried for decades. This discovery sets off a chain of horrifying events. Simultaneously, the Guardians, who have faithfully protected the Hallows for over half a century, begin to die. Their deaths are not natural; they are gruesome, lingering, and clearly orchestrated, suggesting a sinister plot is underway.

It becomes apparent that shadowy figures are working to collect the Hallows, with the ultimate goal of bringing them together and unleashing their raw, destructive power. These antagonists are driven by a desire to activate the Hallows through gory and ritualistic means, aiming to open a gateway to the demon world.

The narrative follows the desperate efforts of the remaining Guardians, or those who become aware of the unfolding horror, to prevent the Hallows from being fully reunited. They must race against time to understand who is behind the conspiracy and what their true intentions are before the world is plunged into an unimaginable nightmare.

"The Hallows" employs techniques of dreams and historical flashbacks to weave a complex mythology around the artifacts and their origins, giving a profound, mythological bias to its supernatural elements. It's a chilling and often graphic story about the thin veil between our world and ancient evils, and the devastating consequences when powerful, forbidden objects fall into the wrong hands.

Comments:
I have found it difficult to find much information about this book but when I read it, 17 years ago, I was really impressed. The mythology and supernatural components really impressed me. I enjoyed reading it and passed it onto others who also enjoyed it.

Books that we've read by Michael Scott (1):
The Hallows (1995)