The Glastonbury Triangle by Stephen Ford - REVIEW
What happens when the lines between nature, humanity, and technology blur in a world driven by cults and conspiracies? In The Glastonbury Triangle, Stephen Ford navigates these themes through a gripping narrative that intertwines the lives of a reporter, a cult, and an eccentric theme park owner. After reading several of Ford's works, it’s clear he has a set of recurring themes that he explores, particularly the complex relationship between humanity and nature, and how both affect our lives.
In his latest book, Ford introduces us to Simon, a journalist for the conservative paper The Daily Trumpet. At the outset, Simon is eager to cover a story on the Knights of Camelot theme park, owned by an eccentric Marquess. However, his investigation soon pulls him into a deeper conspiracy involving unconventional communities, secretive technology, and missing persons. His girlfriend, Jenny, becomes the latest victim, prompting Simon's desperate quest for answers in the mysterious town of Glastonbury.
Ford’s writing is well-structured, with pacing and plotting that hold the reader's attention. His character development has notably improved, allowing readers to gain a strong sense of who the characters are through concise yet vivid descriptions. For example, he describes a woman’s accent as reminiscent of “cream teas,” which effectively paints a picture of her character, even though she isn’t central to the plot. In another instance, he describes an area as somewhere “someone could have returned to after 30 years and still recognise everything,” highlighting the notion that Glastonbury appears unchanged on the surface, while hinting at the town's resistance to change.
The book also delves into character dynamics with impressive depth. Characters like the Marquess and Philomena create an atmospheric shift in their respective scenes. Although Simon doesn’t spend much time with the Marquess, Ford instils a sense of unease in their interactions, making the story more compelling. As the protagonist, Simon is relatable as a young journalist navigating his career. His kindness and open-mindedness shine through, but his internal conflicts reveal a complexity that he doesn’t fully recognise. His treatment of Kitty exemplifies this; he demonstrates kindness and respect, refusing to exploit her trust for a story, unlike the more judgmental attitudes of others.
Jenny, on the other hand, represents the disillusionment of modern life. She is portrayed as someone dissatisfied with her current circumstances and the world she inhabits. While not completely convinced by the cult’s ideals, the promises of a peaceful and meaningful existence draw her in, illustrating Ford's talent for creating multidimensional characters.
One of the standout elements of the book is Ford's portrayal of the Abbellon cult. His thorough research into cult dynamics informs his depiction of their indoctrination methods and the language they use to maintain control. The cult members referring to each other as "brother" and "sister" strips them of individual identities, fostering a chilling sense of collective identity. This thematic exploration is further enhanced by characters like Philomena, the cult leader, and her second-in-command, Hypatia, who manipulate language to justify their actions, emphasizing the novel’s examination of power dynamics.
The narrative is unsettling and realistic, particularly in moments when Simon grapples with his vulnerabilities. For instance, when he discusses his sexual assault at the hands of Elsa with another man in the group, it’s heartbreaking to see how his feelings are dismissed. His physical reaction leads others to trivialise his experience, leaving readers horrified by their lack of empathy.
This absence of horror in the characters' responses amplifies the story's tension. The unknowing participation of cult members in the genetic mutations of those cast out mirrors our complicity in global horrors, highlighting how we often remain oblivious to the secrets our leaders keep. The realisation that Simon's experiences, frequently dismissed in the real world, adds to the unsettling atmosphere.
In conclusion, The Glastonbury Triangle is a multifaceted book filled with twists and turns. Ford showcases his writing talent in an engaging and arguably his darkest story to date, a fact worth noting before diving in. This captivating read offers intriguing Easter eggs for fans of Destiny of a Free Spirit—if you know, you know; if not, go back and read.
