A Liverpool-born writer is preparing to publish a debut fantasy novel inspired by a ghost story he first heard as a youngster in North Wales.
P.J. McCoy, who was born in Toxteth and spent his early childhood near Sefton Park, is due to release Torn Page through Leete Publishing in November 2026.
The former Merseyside Police officer retired in July 2024 and has since devoted more time to writing.
An idea that began in 1984
According to the release supplied on his behalf, the idea began with a ghost story McCoy heard in 1984 while attending Glan Alyn Boarding School in Colomendy, North Wales.
A reunion in 2014 renewed his determination to develop the story, which draws on Welsh history and folklore.
McCoy said: “I first came up with the idea for Torn Page in 1984.”
He described a longstanding fascination with the places, legends and historical figures that helped shape the novel.
A fantasy adventure in North Wales
The book follows five teenage Scouts on a Duke of Edinburgh expedition in the 1980s. Their investigation of an abandoned school leads them into a fictional adventure involving magic, a frozen past and the ghost of Prince Llywelyn ap Gruffudd.
The publisher’s description brings together Welsh legends, mystery and historical figures, including King Edward I.
The novel is intended primarily for readers aged 12 to 18, with wider appeal for readers interested in historical fantasy and folklore, according to the supplied release.
Information and author photograph supplied by Terri Brown PR. Photograph credited to P.J. McCoy.