The Witch Hunters

Paul Zomers arranges a welcome for new neighbours Haydies and Persefony Sticks. After more drinks than is wise, Paul blurts out that he knows Catholic priest Fr Robert Pleasance who at that moment is front-page in the media for the abuse of a minor. Partner Brad and the new neighbours will not let the mention pass. As Paul’s story advances so does the number of glasses of champagne until he makes a confession that unleashes an uncontrollable chain of events that draws in a hyperactive media team and a firm of equally hyperactive public liability lawyers. The media’s and lawyers’ target is Archbishop Richard Ryan for his (allegedly) callous treatment of sexual abuse victims and his cynical efforts to protect his Church. While Paul wrestles with events that bring him to the attention of the national media in their coverage of Archbishop Ryan’s (allegedly) sociopathic behaviour, he gets caught in an unnerving relationship with Persefony and her alternative life-style. Others watch the gradual swapping of roles with dismay. Paul’s crisis of identity comes to a head at the same time as the explosive information about the Archbishop released by top radio host Norman Mudlord. Both Paul and the Archbishop are under siege but for different reasons.

The Witch Hunters is a thoroughly revised (in many places rewritten), reorganized, expanded version of Seeking the Divine Spark published in 2010. A chapter and a half has been added and the title changed to reflect the story’s developed themes more accurately. Ideologically driven changes in society and my anticipation of events in parts of Seeking the Divine Spark prompted publishing this renewed book with its new title.