". . .the stark and simple times of wartime Britain superbly evoked with just the simplest of brush strokes . . .gets so well into the mind of a small boy - truly impressive." Frank Kusy, Rupee Millionaires
"Historically authentic and psychologically insightful. A future classic." G.Polley, Japan
"A delight to read" Historical Novel Society
September 1940. Relentless bombing in London and evacuated once again, Billy is billeted with an elderly couple. Luckily, they provide the nurture he needs to develop new talents, for sinister cousin Kenneth is evacuated in a neighbouring village, next to Billy's mother and sister. Remaining for the rest of the war, the cousins develop resilience. There is hardship and trauma ahead for them both. Kenneth continues his invasion of Billy's psychological territory. Billy protects himself with imaginary power from his icon, the precious Cossack sabre, although now he has only its photograph.
Just as Billy is settling happily into the cosy support of his foster home, a family catastrophe causes a new threat from Kenneth. This one will affect both their futures permanently. What's more, the precious photograph goes missing. Finding an ancient book in the manor library Billy learns more about Cossack sabre, but the story foretells of a devastating future.
Infiltration offers a story of childhood resilience in the face of separation, dislocation, a devious rival, physical hardship, the anxieties of world war and parenting ignorance. It follows a boy's growth into personal responsibility, the basis for facing the climax and fallout in the third book of this trilogy.