From a Childhood Ghost Story to a Welsh Fantasy Adventure: P.J. McCoy’s Torn Page Finally Comes to Life

After more than four decades in the making, author P.J. McCoy is finally bringing his story to life with the publication of Torn Page, a thrilling new Young Adult fantasy novel rooted in Welsh history and folklore, set in picturesque North Wales.

Due for publication in November 2026, Torn Page began life as an idea in 1984, inspired by a childhood ghost story connected to Glan Alyn. More than 40 years later, that early spark has developed into a supernatural adventure combining Welsh legends, historical figures, magic and mystery with the camaraderie of a group of teenage Scouts.

Five Scouts. A frozen moment in time. A royal threat seven centuries in the making.

Set during a 1980s Duke of Edinburgh expedition at Colomendy, Torn Page follows five young Scouts who soon discover that their expedition is anything but ordinary.

On a snowy night at Colomendy Camp, an abandoned school suddenly comes alive with impossible magic. When Jac and her friends investigate, they encounter the ghost of Prince Llywelyn ap Gruffudd, the last native Prince of Wales, and uncover a terrifying secret involving an ancient spell and a portal into a frozen past.

But the Scouts are not the only ones searching for the power hidden within the legend.

Dark forces are determined to rewrite history, whatever the cost.

Armed with little more than a cryptic map and enchanted relics, the Scouts must rely on one another to survive.

They came for a badge. Now, they’re fighting for their souls.

Torn Page brings together historical intrigue, including King Edward I, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd and Welsh witchcraft,  with star alignments, supernatural mystery and a fast-moving adventure designed primarily for readers aged 12–18, while also offering strong crossover appeal for adult readers who enjoy historical fantasy, folklore and stories steeped in place.

Talking about the upcoming publication P.J. McCoy said

“I first came up with the idea for Torn Page in 1984. It’s incredible to think that something which began as an idea so many years ago has finally become a book. The story has grown and changed over the decades, but the fascination with Welsh history, folklore and the places that inspired it has never gone away.” 

With its combination of Welsh legend, historical figures, magic, friendship and high-stakes adventure, Torn Page aims to introduce a new generation of readers to the rich folklore and history of Wales while delivering a story that stands firmly on its own as an exciting fantasy adventure.