THE world famous Cottingley Fairies hoax has inspired a chilling novel exploring post-natal depression.
The Cottingley Cuckoo by Alison Littlewood (writing as AJ Elwood) is described as an "eerie reimagining" of the fairy photographs which fooled many people, including scientists and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, in the early 20th century.
Set in Cottingley, the novel is a gothic take on "the darker side of motherhood" and the terrifying impact of the mischievous fairies of Cottingley Beck through the years. Elwood interweaves a modern day setting with past events to create a story of mystery, fantasy, and psychological horror.
Captivated by books and stories, Rose dreams of a life away from the care home where she works, until elderly resident Charlotte Favell offers an unexpected glimpse of enchantment. She keeps an old stack of letters about the Cottingley Fairies, which insist there is proof that they existed. Rose is eager to learn more, but Charlotte allows her to read only a piece at a time, drawing Rose into her web.