Muse: A haunting, slow-burn literary psychological thriller of art, memory and obsession, set in Edinburgh

Jonathan Peach crafts a contemporary gothic novel centered on a blocked painter who joins an experimental creativity programme in Edinburgh. The narrative follows her journey as artistic ability returns with intensity, yet each breakthrough exacts a toll on her personal history. This slow-burn psychological thriller examines the intersection of art, memory, and obsession. The story operates within the traditions of literary fiction that prioritize internal conflict over external action, appealing to readers who appreciate the atmospheric tension found in works by Shirley Jackson or Julia Armfield. It also resonates with those drawn to the introspective style of Kazuo Ishiguro. The book is suitable for audiences seeking a haunting exploration of creative sacrifice and identity loss. It may not satisfy readers looking for fast-paced plot twists or traditional horror tropes involving monsters. Instead, Peach offers a grounded, eerie examination of how creation can consume the creator. The setting of Edinburgh provides a specific backdrop for this psychological unraveling, grounding the supernatural elements in a tangible urban environment. This approach distinguishes the work from generic genre fiction, placing it firmly within the realm of literary suspense.