Award winning author, Oliver Eade opens his latest novel with a prologue concerning Professor Peregrine Pringle. What a name to get your teeth around. What a whoosh to get you reading chapter 1. What a joy to read the galloping tale set in Scotland, and why not, for this is where Oliver Eade resides.
Dylan believes his dog-phobic dad has destroyed his chance of ever impressing Alice, the girl next door – for the girl next door, has a DOG, called Bouncer. Arghhh.
But …. But… the Bouncer goes missing. Is this Dylan’s chance? Well, yes. Together they set off to find Bouncer, but where is he? They seek him here, there and everywhere until finally they arrive at a decrepit manor house, Number 24 \and there, outside is Bouncer’s collar.
But they have a problem with Number 24 as it is where Alice’s big brother went missing, and Dylan’s little sister too. So if they enter, will it be the end for the two of them as well. Or, by being courageous and resourceful will they find not only Bouncer, but their siblings?
Into the house they go, and end up in a dimension where human and dog roles are reversed, and where Alice becomes Bouncer’s pet. But that is not all, because like all good stories there is an antagonist, or is that plural? For this stalwart pack of dogs and humans have to save the deposed Top Dog, Bosona.
And what happens to Colin? Who’s Colin you ask. Well, read Number 24 and see.
It is a fabulous novel for the Christmas stocking, written with Eade’s usual elan, and structural confidence. Loved it, loved it.
And you can meet the author at the Triple Book Launch for Silver Quill PUblishing Borders Writers. Not just Oliver Eade but Pamela Gordon Hoad whose latest novel, The Prophet’s Grief is launched, and a collection of short stories by Iona Carroll Other People’s Lives. Such a feast of talent and expertise. Such fun authors.
Melrose Corn Exchange Market Square, Melrose TD6 9PN – November 7th. 7-9. Free drinks and nibbles.
Number 24 by Oliver Eade pb £7.99
Annie Clarke’s latest novel is Heroes on the Home Front