This review is part of our ongoing series of in-house reviews, showcasing how passionate we are about the books we publish.

Angus Peter Campbell's Eighth Moon Bridge is a masterful blend of myth, history and personal journey that immerses readers in the enchanting landscape of a small Scottish island. With its captivating narrative and richly drawn characters, this novel is a testament to Campbell’s storytelling prowess.

The novel intertwines the legendary tale of Olghair MacKenzie, a possible alchemist or rebel pirate, with the contemporary journey of Jack, an ex-footballer returning to his childhood island home. Jack's life, marked by restlessness and a yearning for belonging, finds a new purpose as he delves into the mysteries surrounding MacKenzie. The island, with its haunting beauty and the scent of the sea, becomes a character in its own right, offering both solace and secrets.

At the heart of Eighth Moon Bridge is the theme of homecoming and self-discovery. Jack’s return to the island is more than a physical journey; it is a profound reconnection with his roots, his family, and his true self. Campbell beautifully captures the sense of nostalgia and the bittersweet realization of change as Jack navigates his new life as a postman.

 

Campbell's prose is lyrical, painting vivid pictures of the island's landscape and its changing seasons. The seamless blend of past and present, reality and legend, is a testament to Campbell’s narrative skill.

The novel's structure, alternating between Jack’s contemporary journey and the ancient legend of MacKenzie, keeps the reader engaged and adds depth to the storytelling. The mystery of the bridge, stone number 759 and the old Gaelic way of counting the months provide intriguing puzzles that propel the narrative forward.

Eighth Moon Bridge is a magical exploration of history, myth and personal identity. Angus Peter Campbell has crafted a novel that is as much about the physical journey across an island as it is about the internal journey toward self-understanding and belonging. Readers will find themselves captivated by the mystery of Olghair MacKenzie and moved by Jack’s poignant quest for home.

For those who appreciate stories that combine rich historical legends with deep personal introspection, Eighth Moon Bridge is a must-read. Campbell’s novel is not just a story; it is an experience that lingers long after the final page is turned.