Hickes, a fan of Susan Hill and Alan Garner, who grew up in Manchester but now lives in the US, has a strong sense of place and we can smell the sea and Aveline’s fear. He creates just the right amount of tension without overcooking the horror; there are a few terrifying moments, but we never doubt our heroine’s survival instincts. Not least because we’re told there’s a sequel coming soon. Happy Halloween.
