Shirley's guild: A novel

by David Pryce-Jones

In an otherwise quiet village, a little girl with red hair and freckles named Shirley inspires a chain of events that cannot be explained by reason or scientific enquiry. Parents, friends, and neighbors are convinced by Shirleybecomes responsible for scenes unimaginable since the Dark Ages. This striking novel offers an insight into the human need for beliefs and causes, however irrational.

150 pages, Hardcover

Published January 1, 1979

About the author

David Eugene Henry Pryce-Jones (1936–2025) was a British conservative author, historian and political commentator.

Reviews

[Rebecca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another odd, but satisfyingly seasonal read with its hints of the supernatural. Written in 1979 it’s a book that has completely fallen by the wayside but it’s a very worthy diversion, taking a look at the effects of religious fanaticism on a rather quiet Welsh village following the death of a local child. I did find it a bit unbalanced - there is a lot of scene setting before any of the real action begins (although it’s a perfectly enjoyable read) and a lot of the actual most interesting elements are packed almost as an aside in the final twenty pages or so, but overall this was an interesting story that left plenty of room for thought.

[Sam Hicks · Rating 2 out of 5]

Good idea buried by an avalanche of dull and fussy characters and leaden social commentary.