Book excerpt: The Seer’s Curse is the debut novel from a promising young author. Evocative, captivating and endearing with multi-generational relevance. Although set in a fantasy world, it is relevant for today as it deals with friendship, acceptance and self-discovery. The Seer’s Curse is a beautifully crafted fantasy novel about friendship, acceptance and self-discovery with fresh and inspiring myths woven throughout the fabric of this heart-warming and touching tale. Although written for children aged nine and over, it has an ageless relevance that appeals to all. When Orleigh, daughter of the village leader, is born in the wrong place and without her mother to guide her, only the Seer is aware that she has been separated from her fate. Having manipulated the villagers to believe that Orleigh is cursed, the Seer arranges for Orleigh to be taken and offered to the Earth God, Teymos. Yet still fate is not restored. Years later, when Orleigh’s childhood friend Piprin discovers that Orleigh might still be alive, he resolves to rescue her and to return her to the Land of Mortals. Guided by the Seer and the myths of his childhood, Piprin sets out on a quest to the Land of Gods, where mortals like him are forbidden.