Speed of Lightning

William Evans is a fourteen-year-old drover's boy who is on his first long-distance cattle drive, but the journey turns out to be more dangerous and difficult than he had expected. He tries to persuade his dad to transport the cattle by train, but he refuses. Williams enemies, Cade and Mostyn Jones, catch up with them and cause havoc. His close friend, Lizzie, is there to help, but can they reach Smithfield Market in time to sell the cattle and will their friendship survive the journey? The Speed of Lightning is a captivating page-turner that will make you root for William to succeed and share his love-hate relationship with Lizzie.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2021
Publisher: Troubador Publishing

It's 1848, and fourteen-year-old William Evans is thrilled to embark on his first long-distance cattle drive, walking Welsh Black cattle for a staggering two hundred and fifty miles, from North Wales to London. He's determined to impress his dad with his droving skills, but the journey turns out to be far more dangerous and challenging than he ever imagined.

As William travels along, he discovers the wonders of railways and tries to persuade his dad to transport the cattle by train. However, his dad is stubborn and resistant to change, and his refusal to adapt to the rapidly changing times puts him in a precarious situation.

In a tragic turn of events, his dad is involved in a serious accident, leaving him unable to continue the journey. Despite this setback, William and the other drovers carry on, but their enemies, Cade and Mostyn Jones, catch up with them and cause havoc.

William's close friend, Lizzie, is there to support him, but can they reach Smithfield Market in time to sell the cattle and will their friendship survive the journey?

The Speed of Lightning, Jennie Richmonds' debut novel for young adults, is a captivating and heart-wrenching tale. You'll find yourself rooting for William to overcome the obstacles and succeed. You'll be drawn into his complex love-hate relationship with Lizzie and share their joys and struggles.

What's remarkable about this novel is that it doesn't shy away from the challenges faced by young people in the Mid-Victorian age. The issues of poverty, social inequality, and the struggles of working-class families are still relevant today.

Through William's journey, Richmonds sheds light on the resilience and determination of young people in adversity. He shows us that even in the face of overwhelming odds, there is always hope for a better future.

The Speed of Lightning is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction, young adult literature, or stories that explore the human spirit. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to connect us across time and generations.

Weight: 316g
Dimension: 294 x 208 x 37 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800464605