For years Park Woods has been a haven of protection to the many creatures living there, but the peace and tranquillity has generated an attitude of indolence and complacency, leaving the animals vulnerable to danger. Now something sinister lurks deep in a pit nearby and every day its toxic poisons spread further, contaminating everything around it. The poisons invade a colony of rats, polluting their minds as well as their bodies.When Cory, a popular and dutiful hedgehog, discovers the poisoned stream, together with disfigured, dead and dying rats, he is compelled to initiate an investigation. The young hog is full of self-doubt about his ability to lead, but his determination, sensitivity and charisma succeed in mobilizing a number of apathetic, belligerent, meek, and traumatised animals and birds. Cory’s ‘army’ eventually march out to face overwhelming odds.This is the story of an ordinary, unassuming little guy, pitted against something hostile and destructive. But it is not just a battle between good and evil, because these two characteristics are found on both sides: it is about personal battles to confront doubts and uncertainties. It is a race against time, and the final confrontation can only be won by overcoming individual weaknesses, using ingenuity, showing courage, learning to look out for friends and, for some, making the ultimate sacrifice.The Pit revolves around animals, nature and the environment – themes which make this work of adult fiction largely unique. It will appeal to fans of Watership Down by Richard Adams, William Horwood’s The Duncton Wood series and The Wind in the Willows by Kenneth Grahame. Elaine has also drawn inspiration from Charles Dickens and George Orwell.