I knew nothing of Peter Ho Davies before purchasing The Welsh Girl on a whim, except that this was a breakthrough novel for him, and had already been met with some acclaim (Man Booker Prize 2007 Longlisted). So this was a bit of a punt for me, trying a new author. Always an interesting foray.
What struck me throughout the book is how beautifully well the characters and situations are brought to life. The scenes are as vivid as anyone could possibly hope to expect to portray. The limited variety of settings allows Ho Davies to concentrate on capturing the very essence of each scene, earnestly, methodically and effectively.
For the main characters, it is perhaps ironic that the German, Karsten, is where one finds oneself most drawn: his has the longest journey, at least in physical terms. Karsten's recollections of earlier times, his view on those around him, his constant anxieties and aspirations, are so lucidly and convincingly described, the empathy and connection with his character is strong throughout.
Meanwhile, Esther's story might have less miles involved, but it is equally compelling. Perhaps a more melancholy journey, however, and one can taste the rather savage burden of responsibility she faces with her circumstances, be they affected by her late mother, her father, Colin the Sapper or, latterly, the German. Empathy dips regularly into sympathy as Esther's house of cards of a life tumbles once and again, the growing, quiet desperation matched perhaps only by Mrs Roberts'futile hopes for her son.
Rotheram's role in all of this sits slightly out on a limb, but it makes this part of the story no less convincing nor indeed entertaining. Because of its historical reference, though, the Hess story does feel somewhat contrived, perhaps inevitable when using factual figures in a fictional setting.
But it is how these and many other characterisations come to life with both the scenes painted by Ho Davies, how the entire ensemble is crafted, where the real strength of this book lies. Three very real characters, thrown together by the oddest of circumstances, in an enchanting and beautifully described fashion. Ho Davies clearly spent a lot of time researching the subject, but there must be a lot of his own experiences to draw from here; I was reminded somehow of David Baddiel's Secret Purposes, where many similar family, faith and personal destiny issues were explored in a wartime setting. Overall, Ho Davies takes the human wartime fiction to great heights; his lyrical prose and enchanting narrative making this an inspired, accomplished and memorable debut.