In The Midday Sun

Dive into the sun-drenched escapades of three brothers in Guy Bellamy's witty and engaging novel, "In The Midday Sun." This New Edition paperback, published by Penguin, offers a vibrant slice of life on Spain's Costa del Sol, a region sometimes ironically referred to as the "Costa del Crime." First published in 1989, the story still resonates today with its timeless themes of family, fortune, and the pursuit of happiness. The story kicks off with Daniel Ward, a puzzle enthusiast with a penchant for the unconventional. In a moment of pure inspiration (occurring, rather unexpectedly, in his bath!), he concocts a clever plan to pilfer 1 million from local banks and all without resorting to violence. Suddenly flush with cash, Daniel wisely decides a change of scenery is in order, setting his sights on a luxurious villa nestled in the hills behind Marbella. He envisions a life of sun-soaked relaxation, far from the prying eyes of the authorities. Meanwhile, Daniel's brother, Matthew, a seemingly successful businessman, finds himself in hot water back in England. An unfortunate romantic entanglement leads to a vengeful wife and a damning report to the Inland Revenue. With his assets frozen and arrest warrants looming, Matthew hastily gathers what funds he can, sews them into a pillow for safekeeping, and embarks on his own escape to southern Spain, complete with a girlfriend and a forged passport. Fate (or perhaps destiny) throws the brothers together when Matthew unexpectedly crosses paths with their third sibling, Mark. A formerly aspiring pianist, Mark now ekes out a meager existence, singing for his supper in the bustling tourist bars of the Costa del Sol. Penniless but resourceful, Mark finds himself caught between his brothers' contrasting fortunes and misfortunes. "In The Midday Sun" paints a vivid portrait of expat life, far removed from the glossy postcard images. While Daniel grapples with homesickness amidst the opulence of his villa, Matthew faces a new set of challenges, including an unplanned pregnancy. Only Mark seems to be experiencing an upswing, his musical talents finally finding a receptive audience. Bellamys writing is sharp, insightful, and laced with humor. As one Goodreads reviewer notes, the book underscores the timeless truth that "happiness is a state of mind and not about how much you have in your bank." It's a sentiment that rings true throughout the novel, as each brother confronts his own version of paradise lost and found. The Amazon review highlights the book's well-crafted plot and abundance of funny lines, making it a truly enjoyable and engaging read. Guy Bellamy, a seasoned journalist who honed his craft on various newspapers including the Daily Express and The Sun, brings a keen eye for detail and a natural storytelling ability to "In The Midday Sun." His own experiences likely informed the characters and settings, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. Fans of contemporary fiction and those seeking a lighthearted yet thought-provoking read will find much to appreciate in this classic novel by a master storyteller. Before his passing in 2015, Bellamy gifted us with stories like "The Secret Lemonade Drinker" and "The Nudists," adding to a collection of work that will be cherished by readers to come. Order your copy of "In The Midday Sun" today and embark on a sun-kissed adventure filled with laughter, intrigue, and the enduring bonds of brotherhood.