Tony Whelpton Livres

Short-story writer David Sumner is woken at dead of night by the phone ringing, and hears his daughter's voice saying, slowly, deliberately, almost gravely, 'This is important. I did not call the police. It was your family that called the police.' Then she hung up. At length he finds that it is not his daughter after all, but his mind is still in shock, and full of questions: Who made the call? Who was the call meant for? Who called the police, and why? His wife challenges him to make use of the experience by turning it into a novel, with each chapter depicting one of the possible scenarios which might have led to the call in the night. When he eventually finds out the real circumstances of the call, that will be his final chapter, and his mind will be at peace again.

The story explores a young girl's curiosity about her lack of grandparents, prompting her to question her mother. Through this heartfelt inquiry, the narrative addresses themes of family, love, and the importance of understanding one's unique background. It captures the innocence of childhood and the desire for connection, offering a touching perspective on relationships and the different forms they can take.

Set before the events of Billy's War, this prequel explores the early years of Billy's life at age nine. It addresses readers' requests for more about Billy, detailing his experiences and adventures between ages five and nine. The narrative acknowledges the limited scope of a young boy's adventures while highlighting his adventurous spirit. This short story serves as a bridge to the sequel, There's No Pride in Prejudice, providing deeper insight into Billy's character and formative years.

The collection features a prequel novella, Billy: The Early Years, which sets the stage for the second novel, Billy's War. The third title, There's No Pride in Prejudice, serves as a sequel to Billy's War, creating a cohesive narrative arc across the three works. This omnibus edition offers readers a comprehensive exploration of the characters and themes developed throughout the stories.

Set in the aftermath of Billy's War, this sequel continues to explore themes of conflict and personal growth. Characters navigate the complexities of their relationships and the lingering effects of war. While it stands alone, readers may find themselves eager to delve into the events of the first book for deeper context. The narrative promises a blend of emotional depth and engaging storytelling, appealing to both new readers and fans of the original.

Set in the picturesque town of Saint-Pierre-sur-Loup, the story revolves around the political tensions sparked by Mayor Alain Simondi's controversial proposal for a relief road. The conflict escalates as Cécile Delpech, the opposition leader and Simondi's secret ally, navigates the escalating drama, compounded by a young reporter's damaging articles. As local tempers flare and the police's reliability is questioned amidst a drug crisis, the narrative explores themes of power, manipulation, and the hidden complexities of small-town life.

The narrative centers on the unexpected reunion of Ted Bryant and Jim Fletcher, two old friends who reconnect after forty years, revealing an unspoken past involving a shared love for Dilys. Despite their age, the characters defy typical stereotypes, showcasing a vibrant outlook on life and relationships. Set against backdrops of London, Berkshire, and southern France, with flashbacks to their working-class roots in 1951 Nottingham, the story artfully blends themes of nostalgia, friendship, and the complexities of love, offering both joyful and poignant moments.

Set against the backdrop of World War II, the story follows nine-year-old Billy Frecknall, a boy grappling with the absence of his father, who is serving in the army. As he navigates life during wartime, Billy's character shines through, revealing his resilience and imagination in a world filled with uncertainty. The narrative captures the struggles of children during the conflict, highlighting themes of loss and the search for identity amidst chaos.