Award-worthy countryside adventure series returns with mystery, survival and unforgettable characters
Readers can now enjoy the next chapter in Michael Mathers’ acclaimed series with the release of New Horizons Book 2. The latest novel builds on the success of the previous title by combining thrilling adventure, atmospheric landscapes and meaningful relationships between people and the natural world.
Michael’s path to becoming an author began with the support of close friend John Hursey, an accomplished writer and classical pianist. Although they first intended to collaborate on a novel, Hursey completed only the opening two pages before encouraging Michael to carry the project forward alone. Michael believes that encouragement gave him the confidence to pursue a writing career.
His experience working for many years in forestry has had a lasting influence on the series. Familiarity with wildlife, birds and the countryside allows him to portray realistic natural settings and believable animal characters throughout the novels.
The opening books are set on an isolated island off Scotland’s west coast, where dramatic scenery and the surrounding wilderness become central elements of the story. New Horizons Book 2 continues to showcase these themes as the adventure unfolds.
Later books gradually move beyond the island. By the third instalment, the Scottish mainland becomes the primary setting, creating fresh opportunities for larger-scale storytelling while remaining firmly rooted in nature.
Among the series’ many memorable animals, Calvin the pig has become Michael’s favourite character. He finds this amusing because Calvin is the only animal featured that he has never personally worked with.
A hidden thread also runs beneath the events of the series. Rather than drawing attention to it, Michael encourages readers to identify its significance themselves as they continue reading.
The stories balance realistic survival with touches of mystery, inviting readers to interpret the unexplained elements in their own way.
Book Three increases the tension dramatically as the central trio confront life-threatening dangers and a relentless struggle to survive. Their determination and resilience are tested as never before, leaving readers eager to discover their fate.
New Horizons Book 2 is published by Maple Publishers, a UK publishing company that champions engaging fiction while providing professional cover design and interior book layout services.
