Eliot Peper's 'Ensorcelled' Novella, Exploring Digital Disconnection, Launches October 8

Interintellect is set to host a salon discussing author Eliot Peper's upcoming novella, "Ensorcelled," which delves into the contemporary challenge of digital overload and the "profound power of unplugging." The event, featuring Peper and hosted by MJ Cruickshank, will explore the book's themes, particularly the concept of "rewilding your attention" in an era dominated by constant notifications. As stated in the tweet, the discussion aims to highlight "the magic of the real world" in contrast to digital immersion, with the novella officially scheduled for release on October 8, 2025.

"Ensorcelled," a concise 90-page read, tells the story of Tam, a boy who, forced on a camping trip, discovers a unique magic in the mountains, prompting a profound shift from his anticipated virtual world. Author Eliot Peper, known for his high-concept near-future thrillers, described this work as a "simpler tale about a boy who goes on a camping trip that opens his mind to new ways of seeing," requiring him to "stretch new muscles as a writer." The novella is designed as a "one-sitting read" intended to "suck you in, make you think, and leave you changed," offering solace through intimate storytelling.

The salon is organized by Interintellect, a platform dedicated to fostering "fearless conversations with friendly people" and reinventing the traditional literary salon for a global, digital audience. MJ Cruickshank, a regular host and moderator for Interintellect, will facilitate the discussion, bringing expertise in digital media and community building to guide the conversation on technology's impact and the importance of intellectual discourse. Interintellect aims to be a space where "intellectual seekers" can engage in deep ideas and rich dialogue, both online and in person, expanding their minds.

The novella's central theme resonates with a growing societal trend towards digital detox and reclaiming focus from pervasive online distractions. Psychologists and experts increasingly advocate for "rewilding attention," suggesting that intentional disconnection can combat digital fatigue, improve mental well-being, foster deeper connections, and boost creativity by reducing screen time. This movement highlights a collective awareness of the psychological toll of hyper-connectivity and attention fragmentation, making the exploration of "the magic of the real world" particularly timely and relevant for modern audiences seeking to unplug.