Enter the magical, colourful, poignant world of Bracken and Rebecca, Mandrake the tyrant, Boswell the Scribe, Hulver, Comfrey ... and all the other moles of Duncton Wood. Set deep in the English countryside this enchanting story tells of an ancient community losing its soul - but saved by courage and love.

The epic first novel in the allegorical fantasy series about the romance and adventures of a community of moles is “a breathtaking achievement” (The Washington Post). The moles of Duncton Wood live in the shadow of Mandrake, a cruel tyrant corrupted by absolute power. A solitary young mole, Bracken, leads the fight to free them. Only by putting his trust in the ancient Stone, a forgotten symbol of a great spiritual past, can Bracken find the strength to challenge Mandrake’s darkness. When Bracken falls in love with Rebecca, Mandrake’s daughter, the moles must make life and death choices as their extraordinary search for freedom and truth begins. Together, Bracken and Rebecca will embark on moving journey that will challenge them in ways they could never have imagined. But can they save Duncton before it’s too late? “A passionate, lyrical, appealing tale . . . Consistently absorbing . . . Enchanting.” —Cosmopolitan “A great big mole-epic with a great big theme.” —Daily Mail

This stunning continuation by William Horwood follows the further adventures of the four most beloved characters in English literature. In this new tale, we find the loyal companions approaching the autumn of their lives, reflecting on their many escapades and preparing to hand over River Bank to the next generation. When the future of the home they know and love suddenly comes under threat, all of the creatures, young and old, must rally together. Enriched once again by the outstanding illustrations of Patrick Benson, The Willows and Beyond is another captivating story for audiences and imaginations everywhere.

'Dark Hearts of Chicago' combines powerful storytelling with the most meticulous research to produce a novel that is a striking new departure for both William Horwood and Helen Rappaport.