Night Duty, West End

'Night Duty, West End' is a gritty and thought-provoking novel that reflects the underbelly of the 1980s West End, depicting the dramatic life of WPC Kath Peters as she embarks on her night shift. It explores prostitution, probationers, property, and policing, offering a deep insight into humanity at its worst and best.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 144 pages
Publication date: 26 July 2021
Publisher: The Conrad Press

The 1980s West End is vividly portrayed in this novel, which offers a gritty and thought-provoking exploration of the underbelly of the era. The vibrant and glamorous tourist-filled streets during the day stand in stark contrast to the shady, violent, and hedonistically driven nights on the same London streets. The novel immerses readers in the dramatic life of WPC Kath Peters as she embarks on her night shift, providing a firsthand account of policing in the West End during the 1980s. "Night Duty, West End" delves into the intricacies of probationers' experiences, the complex dynamics of property and policing, and the fascinating world of 1980s policing. It is a gripping and deeply moving novel that takes readers through the emotional journey of a single night duty week in the West End.

The novel begins with WPC Kath Peters, a probationary police officer, embarking on her first night shift in the West End of London. The streets are alive with tourists and locals alike, and the atmosphere is vibrant and exciting. However, as the night progresses, the streets become darker and more dangerous. WPC Peters encounters a range of characters, from drug dealers and prostitutes to gang members and corrupt police officers.

One of the key themes of the novel is the impact of prostitution on the West End. The streets are filled with prostitutes, and WPC Peters is tasked with dealing with them. She learns about the challenges that they face, including violence, exploitation, and addiction. She also witnesses the impact that prostitution has on the community, including the rise of crime and the decline of property values.

Property and policing are also central to the novel. WPC Peters is responsible for patrolling the streets and ensuring that property is safe. She encounters a range of property owners, including wealthy businessmen and struggling tenants. She also deals with the challenges of property crime, including burglary and theft.

The novel also shines a spotlight on the fascinating and intriguing world of 1980s policing. WPC Peters is a member of the Metropolitan Police Service, and she is trained in a range of skills, including firearms, self-defense, and first aid. She is also required to follow strict rules and regulations, which can be challenging in the fast-paced and unpredictable world of the West End.

One of the most memorable scenes in the novel is a raid on a brothel. WPC Peters and her colleagues are tasked with breaking into the brothel and arresting the prostitutes. The scene is intense and dramatic, and it highlights the risks that police officers face in the line of duty.

Another memorable scene is a confrontation between WPC Peters and a gang member. The gang member is armed with a gun, and WPC Peters is forced to use her training to defend herself. The scene is tense and suspenseful, and it demonstrates the bravery and skill of police officers.

Despite the challenges that WPC Peters faces, she remains committed to her job. She is determined to make a difference in the community, and she is willing to put her life on the line to do so. She also develops a close relationship with her colleagues, and they become a source of support and inspiration for her.

However, the novel also highlights the negative aspects of policing in the West End. WPC Peters is subjected to harassment and discrimination from her colleagues, and she is often treated as a second-class citizen. She is also forced to work long hours, which can take a toll on her physical and mental health.

In conclusion, "Night Duty, West End" is a gripping and deeply moving novel that offers a gritty and thought-provoking exploration of the underbelly of the 1980s West End. The novel immerses readers in the dramatic life of WPC Kath Peters as she embarks on her night shift, providing a firsthand account of policing in the West End during the 1980s. The novel explores the impact of prostitution on the community, the complex dynamics of property and policing, and the fascinating and intriguing world of 1980s policing. While the novel highlights the negative aspects of policing, it also demonstrates the bravery and skill of police officers and their commitment to making a difference in the community.

Weight: 132g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913567965