A story where the forgotten are the heroes? This is the case with Tom Atkinson’s debut novel “Into The Kingdom,” a tale of camaraderie, healing, and an ancient legend.
Tom Atkinson, an international criminal / securities lawyer with a passion for storytelling, has embarked on a literary journey that spans centuries and continents. After spending six wonderful years at the fiercely independent Securities and Futures Commission in Hong Kong, he was contractually obligated to serve a one year Garden Leave.
His debut book is poised to take the literary world by storm. “Into the Kingdom,” takes readers on an exhilarating adventure that weaves together the Middle Ages, the 1980s war in Afghanistan, and modern-day Ethiopia. With a focus on historical intrigue and the journey of wounded soldiers, Atkinson offers a captivating narrative that invites readers to explore the depths of Ethiopia’s past and present, while shedding light on an intriguing historical mystery.
Now let’s explore the incredible journey of Tom Atkinson, a man whose words have left an indelible mark on those who have had the privilege of reading them.
The Enigmatic Kingdom of Ethiopia: A Character of Its Own
“Into the Kingdom” treats Ethiopia as a character in its own right. Atkinson skillfully immerses readers in the rich tapestry of this ancient land, delving into its culture, and mysticism. Through the eyes of a group of soldiers who find themselves in Ethiopia, the country emerges as a mystical and captivating backdrop that sometimes eerily mirrors their experiences in Afghanistan. This perspective offers a unique and complementary view of Ethiopia, highlighting its allure and enigma.
In a world where fictional heroes often fit a particular mold of physical attractiveness and wit, Atkinson deliberately takes a different approach. “What happened to the sort of severely injured hero that returns from war?” he asks. “They disappear and reappear when you hear them asking for more pension benefits and are ultimately shot down immediately. I really wanted to make a story where they became the heroes.”
His novel introduces readers to a group of wounded soldiers who are far from the conventional hero archetype. These characters grapple with physical and emotional scars, illustrating the challenges faced by those who have served their country and subsequently been left to navigate life’s complexities. “Into the Kingdom” offers a poignant and honest portrayal of their journey towards rediscovering their sense of purpose and healing.
Atkinson’s novel caters to a diverse audience of history enthusiasts and adventure novel aficionados. Whether you have a passion for historical mysteries, a thirst for adventure, or an interest in the healing journey of real heroes, “Into the Kingdom” promises an engaging and thought-provoking read. “I created interstitials – basically a story within a story,” he says. “So, it’s not just someone boring telling you about the history. It’s actually showing people moving through that history.”
One of the central themes of Atkinson’s novel is the legend of Prester John. Atkinson’s research led him to old maps featuring the phrase “The Lands of Prester John” in uncharted territories. Dating back to 1200 AD, this captivating myth persisted for nearly half a millennium, making it one of the most enduring and elaborate deceptions of the Middle Ages. The novel explores the fascinating question of how such a story remained unchallenged for centuries, inviting readers to ponder the mysteries of historical belief.
If you’re intrigued by tales of history, adventure, and life acceptance, “Into the Kingdom” is a must-read. Tom Atkinson’s masterful storytelling brings historical mysteries to life and offers a fresh perspective on Ethiopia, all the while delving into the profound journey of wounded soldiers.
Embrace the opportunity to discover this captivating narrative and explore the intriguing depths of Ethiopia’s past and present, something Atkinson envisions one day making its way to the big screen. With its compelling themes and captivating narrative, this novel is poised to make a lasting impact on readers and perhaps even find its place among the world of cinema.
“Into The Kingdom” is out on Amazon and in all good bookstores. Get yours NOW.”
Written by Andrea Diaz De Leon
