Forced to Flee
by Hazel Goss
This was my debut novel, inspired by a 10-year-old boy who came into my class for a few weeks. He had fled, with his family, from war torn Kosovo. I did not tell his story but used his experiences for my main character. My story weaves through actual events but it is a work of fiction.
1992 and as Yugoslavia disintegrates, the world is focussing on Bosnia and Croatia fighting for survival. In Kosovo the Serbs begin an insidious, systematic, ethnic cleansing of Albanians.
Two Albanian doctors, working in Pristina University Hospital, grapple with an impossible dilemma. Should they sign their allegiance to Serbia, a nation they hate, or resign?
They are good friends but make different decisions. Fadil Dhomi refuses to sign. After a long and arduous journey, he and his young family arrive in England, destitute. Will the people of Leeds welcome them?
Donjeta Kahshoven chooses to stay and endures ever-greater hardship as Serbia’s grip tightens. Vjolica Kahshoven, just fifteen, faces an arranged marriage to a much older man. Will she go through with it or dare to defy her parents?
The threat of war becomes a reality and bombs fall on Pristina.
“I was recommended this book by a family member. I am quite an avid reader getting through 2-3 books a month. My normal reads are Scott Mariani, Chris Kuzeneski, Lee Childs.
From the start I couldn’t put this book down. A great story with brilliant wording to build a picture of life during that period. A must for all like-minded people looking for a new top writer.”
Kate, UK
“The plight of the modern-day refugee. Gripping.
Humanised a dehumanised period of history and what it means to be a refugee both from the perspective of a child and an adult.
Explores the concepts of tyranny, freedom, human cruelty whilst showing that even in the darkest hour the very best aspects of humanity can still be found.
Excellent characterisation - you really identify with the protagonists – and I don’t read fiction!"
