Author Gareth Thomas lives in St Hilary, near Cowbridge, and
the novel - his third English-language novel - has particular local
significance. The Flying Soprano is inspired by the life of a local man,
the late George Crabb, and the book is dedicated to him.
Gareth Thomas said:
“The story and themes of the book were inspired by numerous
conversations with George Crabb about his war-time service as a member of
Bomber Command. George had intense pride in the bravery and loyalty of his
fellow flyers whilst feeling deep remorse over the unnecessary civilian deaths
and destruction that their actions caused. He lived with this contradiction,
proudly displaying his service medals and honouring the cenotaph whilst selling
white peace poppies around Cowbridge during the week before Armistice Day.”
The novel follows Siân, the soprano of the title, a young
woman from the Rhondda who wins a scholarship to study singing at a prestigious
London music academy. Her aim is to follow in the proud line of Welsh female
singers who, given an early musical education in the chapel and eisteddfod,
carved successful careers as divas of the opera or stars of the cabaret. Siân
struggles successfully against lack of money, prejudice and predatory
impresarios but her plans are thrown awry by the impending war, her own headstrong
nature and a love affair.
Events and places of the period form the background to the
story. The Rhondda sees the bombing of Cwmparc, child evacuees from London and
the activities of the Miners Institutes. Valleys women go to work in the giant
explosives factory in Bridgend. In London, we hear the sirens and glimpse Siân
singing cabaret to service men and women.
In Spain, Siân’s brother fights against Franco as part of
the International Brigade. Owain’s story is drawn from the recollections and
memoirs of some of the south Wales miners and ex-miners who volunteered. We
follow the idealism that led to their decision and the brutal fight against
superior fascist forces.
The Flying Soprano by Gareth Thomas (£9.99, Y Lolfa) is available now.
