In the Nick of Time

Peter Bryant's exciting and fast moving novel is a historical fantasy set in 1914-16 and 1966. The story follows the fortunes of the Balkwill family through three generations. Familiar events such as the battle of the Somme and, fifty years on, the World Cup Final, are recorded, but it soon becomes apparent to the reader that a kind of topsy-turvy, parallel universe is being depicted. The story begins in Louth, where Adam Balkwill works as a bank-clerk and his close friend, Jeremy Piggott teaches at the local grammar school. Both are very poorly paid. On the outbreak of war the pair reluctantly join up. After training they are both sent to France and take part in the battle of the Somme. The setting of the novel moves on to 1966. Sir Edwin Balkwill, Adam's son, has become the foremost architect in the country. He invites his father to his 50th Birthday party on the day of the World Cup Final. Adam gives his father some sage advice which eventually alters his conduct and drastically affects the fortunes of his two children, Hilda an Oxford undergraduate, and Aiden, still a school-boy.