Keith F. Girard Intriguing Salem Witch Trials Based Novel
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Keith F. Girard has created his intriguing “The Curse of Northam Bay” connecting the Salem Witch Trials to today’s society. Taking place in Northam Bay, a fictional New England fishing community, the first part of the book is based on history. The second part of this fascinating novel brings its audience into the modern day in the same hamlet.
Dream Inspires Girard to Create Fascinating Story
A dream is what Girard credits with giving him the idea for his story. The subtitle “In the Shadow of the Salem Witch Trials, a Tale of Money, Power, Greed, and Murder” details the excitement found within the book’s pages.
The novelist began his writing of the book wanting to pen a Stephen King inspired horror story. Quickly, Girard realized how interesting the Salem Witch Trials were beyond just the macabre tale all already are familiar with — there were the cultural, political, and religious elements that pumped the madness.
During the 17th century the idea of witchcraft had impacted Colonial America. Although most are fascinated by magic, spells, and black magic of the time, Girard has taken the tale beyond the witchery while keeping the Witch Trials in his story.
In the first half of the book, readers view the Northam Bay dwellers living in the time of the witch trials battling terrors of the time — involving fear and prejudice.
During the second half, the curse of Northam Bay continues with the town still living with trepidation and discrimination. Replacing the terrors of witchcraft, the current century Northam Bay is fighting contemporary monsters involving modern-day politics, gentrification, and culture conflicts.
Girard’s Career Leading to Novelist
Thirty-five years as a reporter, editor-in-chief, and senior media executive led Girard to his current title of novelist. His career began as a reporter and intern for South Carolina’s The State newspaper in their Washington bureau. Working in D.C. for 18 years, in 1974 Girard viewed personally and wrote about Watergate as it was happening. Washingtonian magazine named the budding reporter one of the 100 future leaders of Washington, D.C. in 1982.
