Jamila

'Jamila' brings its fictional characters to life with vivid descriptions carried through sensitive prose. An attention-grabbing opening has implications sustained through the novel, setting the pace for a fulfilling and heart-warming journey to an unexpected conclusion.' 'He wrapped his weathered hands around the child, smiled through watering eyes and using just two creased fingers stroked Latifa's head as he whispered her blessing.' Jamila is the unlawful child of a Moroccan mother. Within her adopted family she finds love, understanding and violence. She grows into a brave but naïve young woman. She flees via Marseille to Edinburgh where she falls foul of a misogynist academic. Jamila unintentionally uncovers his deceits. Encouraged by friends, she returns to her family on a quest to know her own past. She finds she is pregnant. Nursing her child, Jamila searches for her own mother. 'Jamila' is Peter's debut novel. Its companion novel 'Benjamin' will be published in 2025. www.peternewton.co.uk