'A beautiful, evocative novel that captures the fear and mood of the early days of the war' Dylan O'Leary The village of Alvesdon has been home to the Castells for generations. But the year is 1939 and the peace and tranquillity there is about to be shattered once more by the stormclouds of war in Europe. As three generations of the family gather, they must all face the prospect of their lives being transformed beyond recognition the moment Britain declares war on Germany. When the inevitable happens and Britain finds itself at war, the younger members of the family and farm workers are called up to fight and those who remain must battle to keep the home fires burning and the farm afloat. The gentle certainties of rural life are replaced by the urgent clamour of war, in the air, at sea and on land, where events unfold with dizzying rapidity and unexpected consequences. Stretching from the glorious summer of 1939 to the Battle of Britain the following year, acclaimed historian James Holland paints a compelling and immersive fictional portrait of how the war changed everything. For one family and for a community, their way of life can never really be the same again...
James Holland
James Holland is a best-selling British author and historian known for his works on World War II. He has written numerous books on the subject, including the acclaimed "The Battle of Britain" and "The War in the West" series. Holland's writing style is known for its meticulous research and engaging narrative, bringing to life the history of the war with vivid detail. His contributions to literature include shedding new light on key events and figures of World War II, offering fresh perspectives and insights into this pivotal period in history. One of his most famous works is "The Battle of Britain: Five Months That Changed History," which delves into the crucial air campaign between Britain and Germany in 1940. Holland's impact on the literary genre of military history and World War II literature is significant, as he continues to be a leading voice in the field, captivating readers with his in-depth knowledge and storytelling prowess.