Pacy; witty; his characters are real and recognisable LINTON KWESI JOHNSON

Alex Wheatle is the real deal; he writes with heart and authenticity, books that make you laugh and worry and cry and hold your breath KIT DE WAAL

Alex Wheatle writes from a place of honesty and passion STEVE McQUEEN, director of Small Axe

South London in the 1980s. Sixteen-year-old Brenton Brown is the mixed-race child of a mother he has never met. He's been living in a children's home all his life, and when he is unexpectedly reunited with his mother, Cynthia, his whole world seems poised to change.

The best thing happens: Brenton has a family at last.

And then the worst: Brenton falls in love with his beautiful half-sister, Juliet.

As tensions brew in Brixton, Brenton finds himself embroiled in a violent feud with a killer. Vengeance seems like the only option as Brenton hurtles towards an explosive climax which will risk everything.

Brixton Rock is the extraordinary debut of one of the UK's finest writers, a pitch-perfect depiction of South London life.

A triumph . . . This is a debut which confirms its author is a pro in prose The Times