I read this book as an early draft a while ago, and it’s a pleasure to see it released. Other than the initial premise (”Arthur”/Artorius returning in a time of need), the story is free from fantasy elements. The historical incidents depicted are carefully researched, so we’re closer to historical fiction than fantasy or even alternate history.

It’s a fast read, and the prose doesn’t get in the way. There’s a slight tendency for characters to spell things out (to themselves and others), though since I’m not familiar with the period, I found that quite useful.

We experience early World War II mainly through the eyes of Bleddyn, Sophie and (to a smaller extent) Artorius, with vignettes from other characters. While the major characters are distinct people with their own concerns, the focus is more on how the war plays out around them, and they (even Artorius) influence bigger events only indirectly.

Overall, a fascinating exploration of how things could have happened, with a promise of more to come. Highly recommended.