This insightful and tender novel about the sexual abuse of children within the Church of England is both harrowing and yet also heartening. The life of the abuser, Archdeacon Colin, and the abused child, Jack, takes us through the evil and darkness in the first part of the book, but then the love of other characters such as Katherine brings hope and healing, allowing the light of goodness to filter slowly back into Jack’s life.

The novel reveals the shocking story of the Church of England’s failure to protect young children over many generations. The Church authorities were more concerned with their own public image and reputation over the needs of the young ones abused.

It also explores, through the character of Marjorie, the effect of repressive sexual dogma preached over the centuries by established religion.

Mick Vincent is an ex-vicar who wrote this fictional novel based on his pastoral experiences of being alongside the abused and the abusers.