Feedback from D.B 11/10/2026
What a tale this is! I’m delighted Richard shared Enid and her indefatigable spirit – I loved her, warts and all. I very much enjoyed learning about the British Empire in the Far East.
Your handling of family relationships and characters was beautifully done and I really liked how the author surfaced in the closing, and especially the last, chapters. His direct interventions and explanations, along with the geopolitics, were my favourite parts of the book. It felt like we were in conversation and I enjoyed hearing the story from the author, not just through him.
A wonderful telling of family and global history that preserves experiences as legacy, stitching together all the threads and scraps and rags and silks that made up the lives of our preceding generations. An engaging and fascinating read.
Feedback from S.M 1/10/2026
Hugely enjoyed this book. Storytelling and fact blend seamlessly into this facinating and deeply personal insight into a part of history often overlooked in European history books, and the legacy that it has left.
My heart breaks for Enif on a multitude of levels and the loss she faced – as a child, as a civilian, as a mother, as a woman – and hope she is at peace now.
Feedback from P.N 20/09/2026
Richard, just read your book and really enjoyed it. You cover such sweeping historical events from such an interesting perspective, particularly for our generation that had family who had first hand experience of them.
Austin Macauley on acceptance of my manuscript 2/2/2026:
Having read all the reports and taken note of the Editors’ opinions we can confidently state that your work was found to be a comprehensive, intricate, and entertaining read which combines historical accounts with personal recollections. The introspective approach gives real voice to your grandmother, whose experiences are as harrowing as they are fascinating, offering well-balanced sensitivity and striking honesty. The Board was keen to comment on your ability to frame each account within its wider socio-political context. Ultimately, with strong attention to detail and a dynamic writing style, we believe your manuscript has the potential to excel in its genre.
2nd February 2026