Arden

Arden brings to life, beautifully, the story of how a damaged city in the English Midlands is transformed by a group of friends. It begins in 1988. Joe is from a disadvantaged home. He is eighteen years old with little hope for the future, but then he makes friends with four intriguing characters. Their lives become intertwined. They all move to London. You find yourself caring deeply about the friends as they journey through life.

Before the friends can return home, events take them on a rescue mission to the underworld of Beirut. Joe realises he must return to his roots, with a new perspective on the environment that shaped him. Only then can he take his place in the destiny of his own city.

Arden is packed full of striking images. Opposite Joe’s rundown home is a mysterious gatehouse, by the architect Pugin. His words are a rallying call. “Transform your city to save your soul!” Behind the Gothic gates will be a tumultuous event. Arden is a riveting and humorous story of lasting friendship and justice.