Based upon a series of true episodes & real characters, Dead Reckoning weaves the UK's forgotten WWII policy of internment of civilian "enemy aliens," the destiny of the SS Arandora Star, and the top secret Operation Colossus into an astonishing tale of camaraderie, choices and consequences.
Known for "engrossing" fiction with "deftly portrayed characters,"* (KIRKUS) the author spins an intriguing story and readers may find their worldview turned inside out. The drama turns on the travails of three couples who meet in pre-war London and friendships are forged. But when war arrives, everyone is imprisoned in some fashion: Edgar is requisitioned along with his ship. He and Lily struggle to reconcile their pacifism with their role in their Government's treatment of foreign residents and refugees; Fortunato & Florence are caught between a love of Italy and visceral incompatibility with its fascist State and a life-changing decision has to be made; Günther (now captain of a U-boat) and Ingeborg must consider if their silence has become complicity in the Nazi regime's objectives. Who is really "free" to decide their destiny? Can any friendship last when war calls?