Avelyn Brocken is a trainee priest at the Vatican, sent to check out a possible miracle in the fens of East Anglia. But what begins in Hreodwater, involving the mysterious salt light and a sleeping king deep in the mine, threatens civilisations. An original, rich and gripping tale that’s also an interesting exploration of the power of faith. Netherwood by Jake Arnott (Titan, £18.99)London is too expensive, so artist Adam and his partner Justine buy a house in Hastings. A wonderfully unnerving, evocative horror in which Hastings looms large as the most uncanny place in England.