A new fiction story, Absolution, written by a Prince George author is a look into the world of witches warlocks and wicca.
Author Diana Gerdenits says its "not an easy read", but one that will tell of the shocking world of witchcraft with a Lower Mainland setting.
"The story is loosely based on me growing up in Vancouver," said Gerdenits.
"As a young teenager I was part of a group that studied the stuff like witches and covens.
"It was in the early 1980s when most teens were into drugs, sex and rock 'n' roll, but this group-- a couple guys and a couple of girls spiraled out of control and found their own thing."
"I won't say what is truth and what tis fiction, but I can say a lot of things were tested and tried during this time of our lives."
"I was inspired to write the story about different ways of growing up. There are readers who will find characters in the book that remind them of themselves, and those who read the book will have a much better understanding of Wicca, an ancient way of saying witchcraft," said Gerdenits.
"It's the kind of broom ride that grabs you by the throat" and indeed, the first chapter will shock readers, but after that the book mellows out.
"It's not about making people comfortable, but rather to challenge what you believe about the right of women, theology and your perception of God," Gerdenits said.
Basically, the story follows two girls through their uneasy rites of passage into womanhood, but with strange happenings, telepathic powers, astral travel, and spells that can both heal and paralyze.
"Wicca is alive and well today, but Wickans and Gnostics still hide because we're afraid. It was a huge deal for me to come out with this book," said Gerdenits, a native Vancouverite who now lives in Prince George. She was educated in criminology and forest management.
Residents can meet her during a book signing event from 1 to 4 p.m. Friday during the official opening of Turbo Broom Earth Ingredients, 350 Brunswick Street, or at her book launch from 1 to 4 p.m. Jan. 30 at Books and Company. the new store
