By Isle of Wight Observer
By A and S Whitewood
Carisbrooke Castle is reputedly one of the most haunted sites on the Isle of Wight. Therefore it was entirely appropriate that renowned author, Peter J Murray, chose the Castle Museum to launch his latest gothic horror book, The Darker Side of Wight.
As a child, he often holidayed with his family on the Isle of Wight, or, as he calls it, the Isle of Fright, and he plans to soon move here permanently with his wife, Kath.
A character from his imagination, Mokee Joe, started him on his road as a published author. Self-published in 2003, ‘Mokee Joe is Coming’ became a big seller, and he has never looked back.
His new book is aimed at children but suitable for adults, with 12 individual stories, all with Island connections, with an introduction for each by the author.
The Darker Side of Wight features various characters including John (Jax) Alexander, the alien boy, Witch Hazel, Mary in Carisbrooke Castle well house, A Lucard (use a mirror) and the Siamese Twins at Brading Wax Museum. You don’t need to be an Island resident to enjoy this book; even visitors will recognize some of the locations and relate to spooky lane or shute adventures.
Cover artwork and inner line drawings are by Paul Bryn Davies, who has been commissioned by no less than Stephen King. The hardback book cover is designed by Louise Drew.
The book is available from Medina Bookshop in Cowes and other outlets.