The Empty Sleeve

In this engrossing story, the twin apprentices Peter and Paul gradually come to terms with their dreams and each other. Working for a locksmith, the surly Peter quickly uses his access to keys to accumulate the wealth which will allow him to escape to sea. He's thwarted, as an ancient ship's carpenter prophesied, by supernatural forces released at his birth on the stroke of midnight. Peter is implicated in the murder of the wife of the corrupt Lord Mariner, and the story reaches an exciting climax among the wintry streets of old London. The gripping pace and characterisation will appeal to readers of 11+, although the semi-ironic voice of the narrator will also be enjoyed by many adults.