The Half-Torn Page: A Tale of the Valley of Witches in 17th century Germany

by David Palin

One fateful evening in 17th-Century Bavaria, Ilsa Wlich arrives at the end of the Adventurer’s Road where she finds a beautiful but insular town called Reimersberg. The town lies deep in the mountains and wolf-inhabited forests of a place known as the Valley of Witches. Seldom reached by outsiders, its people are not welcoming; proud of their traditions, they frown upon change and those who bring it. Upon arrival, Ilsa finds herself saving the life of a sick boy, Karl, with her ancient knowledge. But she is suspicious of the cause of his sickness. And while she earns the boy’s undying love she also attracts the enmity of some of the town elders – in particular the incompetent doctor, Arzt, and the mayor, Meister. Ilsa’s presence in the town awakens a long-hidden darkness, and she finds herself, together with Karl, fighting to survive on a path far more strange, perilous and bloody than she could ever have imagined.

Genres: Fantasy

292 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 19, 2019

About the author

David was born in West London and lives in Berkshire. He is the author of several published novels, dark psychological thrillers, the publication of which has led to interviews on BBC Radio and in the local media. David is intrigued by the things that hide, often in plain sight, in the shadows beyond the light of our everyday lives. As a fluent German speaker and having studied English and German literature, he believes we are drawn to darker tales and imaginings.

When not wrapped up in his own writing processes – or being distracted by his other time-consuming loves of sport, music, the theatre and travelling - David is always keen to encourage and support creativity in others. As well as editing and co-writing for various authors, he has run writers’ workshops in as diverse places as Berkshire literary festivals and the far north-west of Scotland!

Reviews

[Kristen]

DNF @ 42%

I have no idea what is going on. Turns out I have a hard time with books that feature witches based in science.

I had the hardest time following the plot - aspects introduced and then dropped off, characters I could care less about, and it reads like middle grade.

I seem to be in the minority, but this book just was not working for me.

[✨ tweety ✨]

I tried and tried but it wasn't for me.
I have to dnf because I wasn't enjoying myself and life is short, I don't want to put my energies into something I am not enjoying.

[Alexandra]

I’m sorry, I really tried with this one.
The plot and timeline skipped ahead a lot making it not difficult to follow but unpleasant. A lot of things happened off page and not in a clever way, more like in a “by the way this happened” way. I liked the concept which is why i picked this one up but I was happier to DNF than to finish it.

[From Bel’s Bookshelf]

Sincere thanks to NetGalley and Burning Chair for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. #TheHalfTornPage #NetGalley

4.5 stars. Take a healthy helping of Brothers Grimm, stew until tender with ample seasoning of Da Vinci Code and serve with lashings of The Village by M Night Shyamalan. This is the mouthwatering recipe for The Half Torn Page by Davin Palin.

I had the privilege of reading this newly re-released novel about a mysterious 17th century Bavarian township and the cast of indelible, often haunting, characters who make it their home. One day, the isolated town sees a strange traveller arrive unexpectedly in their midst, only for them to make it extremely clear they do not welcome outsiders. The consequences of their selfish behaviour towards the traveller will haunt the township unless they can find a way to redeem themselves.

Karl, the baker’s son, is our loveable protagonist who takes a stand against his fellow villagers in support of the enigmatic newcomer. Little does he realise this simple act of kindness and hospitality marks the beginning of a dark and perilous journey for him.

This is an easy to read fantasy story that would be a perfect introduction for readers who are new to the genre. With steady pace and dramatic descriptions, David Palin has created a highly approachable but very compelling tale. It toys with dramatic power plays and intriguing plot twists which help keep the reader invested.

Through David Palin’s characters we explore the best and worst of the human condition; what it means to love and to fear, and why some seek vengeance while others choose forgiveness.

This was a truly enjoyable read with many memorable scenes and characters that will stay with you well after you turn the last page. It does introduce a rather generous quotient of secondary characters throughout the book, nearly all of whom have German names. This did require a degree of effort and thought to keep track of so that the plot remained navigable. This kept it from being a complete five star read for me, but may not be an issue for other readers.

If you enjoy the gritty darkness of the traditional German fairytales, as well as the evolving drama of the Da Vinci code, and the unsettling creepiness of The Village, you’ll enjoy The Half Torn Page. A definitive strong recommendation!

[Mark]

Love, love, loved it! Lucky to discover this through a work event and chat to the author before and during reading it. I am a people pleaser, but I can still be objective about reviews and there is no bias in saying i enjoyed this book because it took less than 10 days to finish.

Mix of medieval, supernatural and some twists I was hooked. The idea of living life in an isolated walled town and no way to leave or new people to arrive (within caveats) it was not hard to empathise following 2020 lockdowns.

The story and characters were fantastic and I hope he considers another in this genre because it was an engaging read.

[∆×Neromi×∆]

The Half Torn Page is a dark fable in which the village of Reimesberg, situated in the heart of the Witches’ Valley, is the subject of a curse that condemns its inhabitants to remain unchanged by the passage of time and by any external influence within its walls. Their only hope, as the witch who cursed them foretold, is that a known stranger will agree to stay in the village and help them break the curse.

The setting is the strong point of this work, where one can sense the dark and decadent atmosphere of 17th-century rural Germany, alongside an unsettling and sorrowful mood, accentuated by forced confinement and the despair at the absence of a saviour who never arrives.

The characters are well developed, with Karl being my favourite; his kindness and support towards visitors never waver over the years, making him one of the key figures in breaking the curse.

The plot is divided into two parts, starting at a slow pace to allow for the introduction of the characters and the setting. It’s true that part of my dissatisfaction lies with the second part, as the resolution of the conflict, whilst ingenious, feels rushed; this process could have been handled more calmly, giving greater weight to the clues, because, as the locals used to say, ‘the only thing we have is time’.
As for the ending, it took me by surprise, as I hadn’t expected it to end so abruptly, and I couldn’t quite believe it was actually over.

What more can I say? If you enjoy tales in the style of the Brothers Grimm, or stories like Shirley Jackson’s "We Have Always Lived in the Castle", do give this story a go.

Thanks to NetGalley and Burning Chair for giving me the chance to read this book via an e-ARC.

[Leanne]

The Half‑Torn Page is a dark, beautifully woven tale that feels as though it has stepped straight out of the forests of old Bavaria—rich with folklore, suspicion, and the kind of creeping dread that settles in long before you realise why. Reimersberg, tucked deep in the Hexental, is the sort of place that seems to exist slightly out of time: proud, insular, and shaped by traditions that have hardened into something far more dangerous.

The arrival of a mysterious wanderer sets the story in motion, and from that moment the atmosphere thickens. The town’s secrets—whispered curses, old accusations, and a history that refuses to stay buried—begin to stir, and the sense of inevitability is both chilling and irresistible. The author captures the tension of a community on the brink with such vivid detail that you can almost smell the pine resin and feel the cold mountain air pressing in.

What makes the novel so compelling is its blend of human frailty and mythic weight. The accusations of witchcraft, the fear of the unknown, the way suspicion spreads like wildfire—these elements give the story a timeless quality, echoing the darker side of the Grimm tradition while still feeling fresh and emotionally grounded. The consequences of careless choices ripple through the narrative, revealing both the best and worst of the people who call Reimersberg home.

Atmospheric, unsettling, and steeped in folklore, The Half‑Torn Page is a haunting tale that lingers like a shadow at the edge of the woods. A beautifully crafted story for readers who love their historical fiction with a touch of the uncanny.

With thanks to David Palin, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Helen Garraway]

An excellent tale set in eighteen century Bavaria, reminiscent of Grimms' fairytales with the rural German setting and the moral for all to learn.

Ilsa is weary of her travelling life and, arriving in the beautiful town of Reimersberg, she hopes finally to set down roots and rest. But strangers are not welcome and even though she saves a boy's life, there is a danger stirring in the town which won't rest until she is gone.

Palin has created an atmosphere of suspicion and distrust that Ilsa had no hope of overcoming, even in the beautiful town at the end of the Adventurer's Road. A lovely blend of mystery, mysticism and the darker side of human nature combines to provide a haunting tale of betrayal and revenge.

Very easy to read and very difficult to put down. You get drawn into the angst and strife of the towns folk and see how easy it is to be led down the wrong path. Palin creates some memorable characters, even if they are more relatable by their profession, be it the doctor, the mayor or the priest!

Palin has a lovely turn of phrase which momentarily lightens the story, makes you smile and then descends back down into the consequences of the villagers actions. If you love riddles, mysteries, and wonderful characters, then look no further than The Half-Torn Page.

[Hannah]

I went into The Half Torn Page by David Palin expecting a dark, atmospheric mystery, and that’s exactly where the book shines. The setting in the remote Bavarian village of Reimersberg is incredibly well done—isolated, misty, and steeped in superstition, it has a real Grimm-fairytale edge that makes everything feel slightly off in the best way. The atmosphere is easily the highlight and carries a lot of the reading experience.

The story follows Ilsa as she arrives in the village and slowly uncovers that something is deeply wrong beneath its quiet surface. The pacing is deliberate and slow-burn, but it fits the tone, building tension through unease and gradual reveals rather than fast-moving plot twists or action. It’s more about mood and unfolding mystery than constant events.

Overall, this is a very atmospheric, immersive read that leans heavily into setting and tone. The plot is quieter, but if you enjoy folklore-inspired mysteries with strong world-building and a haunting sense of place, it’s an easy book to get lost in.

netgalley-arc

[Lana]

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC!

4.5 rounded down to 4 stars.
This book read like a dark fairytale you tell your children to instill some sort of moral lesson and I was obsessed! Beautiful, atmospheric prose. I was immediately transported to this little picturesque town where there’s something off lurking beneath the surface. I loved reading about the process of how a story slowly distorts into a half-true legend over time.

The only downside to me were the characters. I didn’t feel that connected to them or their arcs. This is usually a bigger deal to me but I think it does fit the vibe with the story being written like a fairytale.

I felt like it was the perfect length as well. Definitely recommend!

[Sally Russell]

David Palin weaves an intricate and original tale, featuring the supernatural forces of good and evil, a picture-perfect timbered village, and innocent and not-so-innocent residents, in a tight plot which leaves one guessing until the end.

Set against a backdrop of towering snowy mountains in southern Germany, The Half-Torn Page draws on fairytales and folklore for inspiration, yet forges its own path throughout.

It's a great page-turner and the perfect novel to keep you company in the dark winter nights! Just light a few candles to enhance the atmosphere and give yourself up to an enchanting read!

[Megan]

Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this arc in exchange for my honest review.

The Half Torn Page was such a pleasure to read! The world building is so immersive. I felt as if i were in their little town feeling things fall apart around me. I felt the sadness, the decay, the angst.

Im definitely rating this five stars! Finished it in one sitting because I had to know the outcome. If you love a more midevil, science driven witchy vibe with high stakes, angst, and riddles, this book is for you!

[Eliza]

YA fantasy

I’d started this and decided to finish it because I knew it was a short book and also for a while was invested in finding out how the story would conclude. However as time went on I became Less and less interested when I still wasn’t feeling connected to the characters. I didn’t care what happened to the characters and therefore didn’t care when things happened to them as a result of the plot. It was an intriguing story idea but for me but it fell flat due to the simple fact that I felt no emotions from the characters and knew nothing about them.

[Marielle Bayliss]

I knew as soon as I read the description that this book was right up my street, and I was not disappointed. A fantastic and atmospheric read with great historical nods, an encroaching haunted forest, a remote but beautiful town and a little bit of witchery. I was half way through another book when this arrived; I read the first few pages and just had to put the previous novel on the back burner and finish The Half Torn Page.
I will now be working my way through the author's other works!

[Samantha Hehr]

This story takes place in 17th Century Bavaria. I always love reading about Medieval Europe somewhere other an Britain.
A woman moves into a town and is treated as an outsider. As soon as it benefits the Mayor, she gets accused of being a witch and as the townsfolk erect a pyre to burn her on, she curses the town and mysteriously leaves. They wanted a witch, and they got one. The rest of the story is about how the townsfolk carries on with their curse.

[Diana]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.

I was very intrigued by the premise of this book. And while I liked the plot and the writing style, the rest of this novella was kind of lacking. I would have enjoyed some more world-building and context on how the magic works. That part was very vague. The characters were one-dimensional and there was very little character development throughout the story. I also think there are too many POVs for such a short book, making it feel a bit disjointed.

As a German, I really do not understand the selection of some of the names. While it is historically accurate to call someone by their profession, it seems weird to me to name characters "Lehrling” (apprentice) or "Kerzen" (candles). Furthermore, the inconsistency with which the author uses umlauts, makes it seem like they are a choice, rather than a necessity in German. On the one hand, you have Baecker, rightfully with the ä/ae. On the other hand, there are "Droger" and "Wachter", where an umlaut should have been used as well. This was quite disappointing, as David Palin seems to have lived in Germany for a few years.

Overall, I enjoyed this novellas fairy-tale-like nature (it really feels like German folk-lore), but the bad German broke my immersion constantly.

[Mrs G.L.Mace]

Fantastic Brilliant Book

I loved this book very much, I was spellbound from the first pages right up to the last page. I would definitely recommend this book to any reader. I never guessed the plot and I was riveted to it from the start. Expertly written *****

[tejal]

Dnf - couldn't get into the first chapter.

[The Cheshire Cat]

Palin’s latest novel is very different to his previous ones but nevertheless the story line is just as captivating. It has all the elements of a good old-fashioned fairy tale with a witch, a vampire and a curse, delivering exactly the expected level of sinisterness and intrigue.
The fluidity of his prose pulls you into the mysteriousness of the plot and no willing suspension of disbelief is required. His descriptive prowess means that the characters and the town in which they live, jump out of the book at you and you can envisage them precisely in your mind’s eye. His figurative language is so apt it falls off the pages with a stunning eloquence For example, when describing the houses in the town, Palin writes “many of which, leaned over so far, they seemed to be about to head off for a stroll “ or “he gathered his wits, as quickly as a housewife might snatch in her washing out of the rain”. Pure magic!