Please note that this title is currently out of stock but is available for pre-order. While we don’t have an exact publishing date yet, it is expected to be available within approximately 4 to 6 weeks.
£12.50
Set in late 1942 at RAF Riccall near York, England, the story follows John Jenkins, a newly qualified flight engineer who joins the crew of fellow Welshman Bob Jenkins. Together, they train on the Handley Page Halifax II, one of Britain’s most significant heavy bombers, as they prepare for the demanding missions ahead.
Based on the real 1658 Heavy Conversion Unit (H.C.U.) training schedule and grounded in authentic events and locations, Thomas presents a detailed and accurate depiction of the experiences faced by young airmen during this critical period. The narrative explores themes of friendship, duty, and the challenges of war, offering a clear-eyed view of life on the threshold of combat.
The Halibag Boys: Time To Fly is a strong debut novel that balances historical precision with narrative depth, making it an essential read for enthusiasts of World War II history and historical fiction.
ROBERT J. THOMAS is a respected historian and author with extensive experience in non-fiction. His work is distinguished by a commitment to historical accuracy, and The Halibag Boys: Time To Fly marks his debut in historical fiction.
Learn more about the novel and the author’s approach in The Foreshore interview.
