We join Oliver and Jack, as they are on the run from London after Oliver killed ????, They are heading for Lyme Regis, where Oliver is hoping to find his family.
The poor boys struggle to cope with their situation. Things are grim, especially when Jack becomes ill.
They find refuge in a big house, under the guise that Oliver is a gentleman and Jack is his servant who has taken ill.
This book takes us a a real gritty and dangerous journey, where Oliver struggles to cope with his guilt and fall from grace once more.
Jack who would do almost anything for Oliver, struggles to fit in at Lyme, but he sticks it out for Oliver.
Their budding relationship is tested a few times, but their love for each other is strong.
The author has done an amazing job of bringing the characters and the story world to life.
None more so then when Oliver and Jack are working of doctors’ fees down at the Cop gutting fish. I really felt the harshness of them working in the open right on the sea edge in pouring rain.
Just before writing this review, I decided to google Lyme Regis and use the street view map to have a stroll. When I got to the cop, I saw the exact scenes that I had in my head reading this book.
The author again delves into the injustice of the Classes. We see first hand how because Oliver is believed to be a gentleman fallen on hard times, is still treated with respect and thoughtfulness. Whereas Jack being a mere servant, is treated as though he is worthless.
Though Oliver and Jack continue to struggle through dark times, Jack’s humour, mischievousness and daring antics, which keep Oliver on his toes and gives us a few laughs.
Jackie has once again portrayed the story world with authenticity, be it clothing, food or people’s actions. I really do feel like I am back in the 1800’s on the Cop, gutting fish myself. I am sure I smell of fish and salt water when I put the book down.
If you like fast paced stories this series is probably not for you. But if you enjoy a story that feels real and draws you in so much that you feel like your part of the story world. Then you will love this series.
