He shows great intuition and insight into the personalities of the two ... By Rosemary Jane Clark on 14 Aug. 2014

At a time when there are many novels being published which are based on the events of World War I, this book was a refreshing way of dealing with the subject matter, with its two interwoven themes of war and music. The events were portrayed realistically and the characters thoroughly believable, even when their thoughts and ideas were only imagined by the author. He shows great intuition and insight into the personalities of the two main protagonists, no doubt drawing on his own experience as a musician and composer. I found myself gripped by the events and couldn't put it down until I had finished it.

Very Interesting ReadBy JML0059 on 7 May 2014

Was recommended this book by a friend. It is definitely not my usual read so was slightly hesitant to order. So glad that I did read it though. With out giving too much away, it is very cleverly written showing how the war is seen from two different view points and both main characters are equally vital to the story. Although obviously only small parts are factual, the authors imagination on the lives of both Ralph and George are completely believable, and I somehow feel a little wiser for reading it.

Eye-opening but enthralling. By Sarah Chalke on 8 Aug. 2014

Not normally the sort of book I'd choose as I tend to read fantasy based stories and books. This however, surprised me. From about the fourth chapter, I was invested in the characters and their lives. The author paints a very realistic and often abhorrent picture of the realities of trench warfare. I was both scared and enthralled to read on, but found myself completely absorbed in the two main character's lives and was really impressed by how the author managed to paint a vivid picture of the surroundings and the emotions of the characters, main and supporting. I actually cried at parts, which is a testament to how invested I was in the characters. This book is not for the faint hearted, it explores some very real scenarios with brutal honesty and the way the author has woven his knowledge of the facts with his ideas for the story itself, is inspired.

Story with a difference. By Mr Peter Wright on 13 May 2014

An enjoyable read set in Norfolk during WW1. Couldn't' put it down as needed to know what was happening to the characters and the outcome of the wars years in their lives. Nicely written without being to heavy.

A thoroughly enjoyable read!! By Mr D S Holtonon 14 August 2014

A very good and enjoyable read that shows how the war was seen from two differing opinions. The flow between the two characters is controlled well and both a re vital to the story. The Pastoral offers an insight into the atrocities of war inside the trenches is brought very much alive by the authors imagination which is embedded with factual knowledge throughout. I particularly enjoyed the story when it was more graphic, but this is testament to the authors ability to draw you into the story and make it believable.

What a GREAT read. By Mrs. Nicola Prestonon 9 June 2014

I couldn't put this kindle book down... it was so enjoyable. The story was fantastically written and very easy to read.

I am really looking forward to starting Albatross Bay....

Poignant and thought provoking By Baloo "Baloo"on 9 June 2014

I've just completed this book having saved it to read before I delve into Louisa Young's The Heroes Welcome as I thought they would sit well together.

I was deeply moved by this story which I read over the period of the D-Day Commemorations and also just a few days after attending the funeral of a 99yr old WW2 veteran during which the music of Vaughn Williams was beautifully played in our Minster Church here in Kings Lynn.

If I'm honest I found the start of the book a little slow going, although always interesting to read of places that are familiar, however the story really comes alive when Ralph and George's paths diverge and particularly once we are dealing with the horrors of trench warfare. The author deals with some very difficult situations in a sensitive and thoughtful way without protecting the reader from true horrors that he's trying to convey, very well done.

I think this is tremendous book from a first time Author, although it is clear that he too grew into the story and his writing style, great potential here.

There are not many books that leave me in tears, but this one did, highly recommended.

Had trouble putting it down. By Nik Gamble on 5 May 2014

A thoroughly enjoyable read, the story flowed well between the two main characters and the descriptions of life in the trenches was brought to life in a very believable way for the reader.

A book which gives an excellent insight into life in the trenches during WW I ... By Claudia Buffarello on August 2, 2014

A book which gives an excellent insight into life in the trenches during WW I and does not just concentrate on the brave side of soldiers but also their deep feelings, thoughts and worries. The way the book is written shows the author's emotional involvement in his work. Not being somebody who is normally interested in reading books on history I must say that I absolutely loved it and had trouble putting it down.