This is the second book I’ve read by this author.

A gripping novel that captures the essence and grit of 70s nostalgia.

The story is the first in a series built around overcoming ruthless people and winning against the odds. But, for me, I loved that it transported me to a time of seaside holidays and simple days. The story is compelling and poignant. It’s about ordinary people and wanting more than life has offered you. It covers morality and it’s told against the evocative backdrop of 60s and 70s life.

The vivid cultural nuances of the time add a rich layer of authenticity, making the narrative more immersive. The book opens with a detailed description of conditions down the pit and highlights how hard the miners had it—hard to believe this lifestyle was still happening as recently as forty years ago. The description is sublime.

The characters are well-developed, some with integrity in a world driven by greed and ambition, others who are not nice. The book highlights differences in their characters, leading to the choices they make. Grace is horrible and Trevor is my favourite character, while Christopher is lovely. They are all distinct from each other and are human enough to feel real.

We explore complex themes while being engaged with evocative storytelling and attention to detail.

This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted narrative shot through with nostalgia.

                                         ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐