From Cornwall to Canada: Voice Newspapers Spotlights Alexander Paul Burton's Fantasy Epic "The Hollow Vale"!
I'm absolutely thrilled and incredibly grateful to share some exciting news today! The fantastic team at Voice Newspapers, specifically in the Truro Voice section, has published a wonderful feature about my debut fantasy novel, The Hollow Vale.
It's truly special to see The Hollow Vale getting recognition back in Cornwall, the place that profoundly shapes my writing, even though I'm now based in Canada.
A Deep Dive into Dumnonia: The World of The Hollow Vale
As the article highlights, The Hollow Vale is a fantasy novel deeply inspired by the mythic roots and landscapes of the South West, particularly the ancient land of Dumnonia which once encompassed Cornwall, Devon, and Somerset. It's a project that's been a decade in the making, pouring my love for history, language, and storytelling into its pages.
I wanted to create a truly immersive world, so the book features:
Hand-drawn illustrations
Original maps charting the lands
Original music linked to the story (Mention how readers can access this if applicable - e.g., QR code, website link)
Even a constructed language with roots in Brythonic and Latin influences!
The story itself draws heavily on Celtic folklore, weaving tales of ancient magic and a crumbling empire, with familiar echoes of Bodmin Moor and Exmoor landscapes forming the backdrop. Central to the narrative are strong female protagonists navigating not just external conflicts but also their own sense of identity and belonging.
Cornish Roots and Universal Themes
Being born and raised in Falmouth and schooled in Redruth means my Cornish roots run deep. Though I moved to Canada in 2018 (thanks to dual citizenship!), Cornwall is never far from my thoughts. As I mentioned in the article, "My roots in the Westcountry shape everything I create," and writing The Hollow Vale was a powerful way to connect with home. Missing Cornwall's unique beauty fuelled much of the inspiration.
The novel also reflects my perspective as an LGBTQ+ fantasy author. Themes of exile, resilience, and chosen family are woven throughout the narrative. These echo the historical loss of land and language experienced in regions like Dumnonia, but also resonate with the personal journeys many queer individuals undertake when searching for identity and community.
Where to Find The Hollow Vale (and What's Next!)
I'm delighted that The Hollow Vale is finding its way home! As mentioned in the Voice article, it's due to be stocked at Waterstones Truro – a huge milestone!
You can also find it right now on:
Amazon (Paperback & Kindle): [Link to your Amazon Page]
Audible (Audiobook): [Link to your Audible Page]
Looking ahead, one of my big dreams for this book is to have it translated into Cornish (Kernewek), including creating an abridged version to help schoolchildren engage with and learn the language. It's so important to keep that heritage alive.
Thank you again to Kirstie Newton and Voice Newspapers for this fantastic feature! And thank YOU, readers, for your support. I hope you enjoy exploring the world of The Hollow Vale.
Let me know in the comments if you've read the article or the book!
https://www.voicenewspapers.co.uk/your-area/truro-voice/cornish-author-in-canada-publishes-fantasy-novel-inspired-by-homeland-787314
