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Cover of The Prayer of the Night Shepherd

The Prayer of the Night Shepherd

Phil Rickman (2004)

SubgenreDark Fantasy
Age groupAdult 18+
Content ratingPG-13
Pages (Standard (250-400))
SeriesMerrily Watkins #6
Setting
CSM age16+
Goodreads4.27

Content levels

ViolenceModerate
Sexual contentMild
LanguageModerate

Heroine archetypes

ExorcistMom / Mother Figure

Protagonist archetypes

Multiple POVsDuo / Partners

Synopsis

A crumbling hotel on the border of England and Wales, a suggestion of inherited evil, a mystifying love affair, and the long-disputed origins of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's *The Hound of the Baskervilles*. It's all endlessly fascinating for young Jane Watkins, flushed by the freedom of her first weekend job. But the sinister side becomes increasingly apparent to Jane's mother, Merrily, diocesan exorcist for Hereford. And the snow is coming. And a killing.

Is The Prayer of the Night Shepherd appropriate for my child?

Suitable for most readers 16 and up.

This supernatural mystery features a diocesan exorcist investigating sinister events at a haunted hotel. Contains murder, demonic themes, moderate violence, and atmospheric horror suitable for older teens and adults.

What to know going in

This book has moderate violence, mild sexual content, and moderate language. Content notes include murder, death, and violence (see the full list above).

Who'll love this

Teens who love atmospheric mysteries with supernatural elements and literary connections will find this gripping blend of exorcism, murder, and Sherlock Holmes lore compelling.

Tags

MysterySupernatural ThrillerBritish HorrorEcclesiastical MysteryLiterary Fiction