It’s volume 5 of the Strong Winds series, but you get straight into the story even if you have not read the other books. The novel is based around teenage dinghy sailor Xanthe and some very odd goings on around boats on the East Coast, covering Second World War history, Dunkirk Little Ships and pill boxes. A cyber-bullied Xanthe arrives to teach dinghy sailing to a group of young kids, who have their own troubles to add to the mix. The oldies are there too with set views, family feuds and secrets.
The descriptions of sailing around the East Coast are very evocative, with tides as well as sailing tactics adding interest for the sailor without being distracting for a non-sailor.
This is a great read (and a moral book) with a mix of history and modern living. It is a mystery adventure but shows how a caring attitude can carry the day despite life’s burdens. E Wright
Published by Golden Duck
296pp Price £8.99
