This "well-executed emotional drama" (Historical Novel Society) tracks a boy's growth through trauma and guilt into personal responsibility...but what price retribution?

"The writing is superb...and the best aspect is the way the author understands and conveys emotion, even twisted, conflicting emotions." Goodreads reader.

1937 London. "This is your cousin Kenneth!" And now young Billy's life immediately changes from peaceful to fearful. With threat of war preoccupying his parents, lonely Billy is delighted to learn he'd have another boy coming to live nearby. But frail, talented but devious Kenneth proves to be a nightmare. He envies Billy's superior strength and home comforts. He manipulates and bests Billy at every turn. The four parents see only Kenneth's porcelain looks and perfect manners, oblivious to his psychological bullying.

Kenneth's desire for power and territory mirrors in micro the tensions in Europe. Billy's only protection is his secret symbol of power, a Cossack sabre owned by his father's friend. This has its own history on the Polish/German border at the start of WW1. During evacuation and wartime miseries, the sabre is an icon that inspires and sustains Billy. Meanwhile Kenneth increasingly invades every aspect of his life.

Highly commended, Yeovil Prize (Novel).