Hell and High Water

The heart-stopping tale of a young man's attempt to clear his father's name, from the Carnegie Medal-winning author of Buffalo Soldier.

From the Carnegie Medal-winning author of Buffalo Soldier Tanya Landman comes this heart-stopping tale of a young man's attempt to clear his father's name. When his father is arrested and transported to the Colonies, Caleb is left alone. After a desperate journey in search of an aunt he’s never met he receives a strange, cold welcome. Then a body washes up on the nearby beach and Caleb is caught up in a terrifying net of lies and intrigue. Soon he and his new family are in mortal danger. This powerful story holds the reader in suspense as it charts the growth of a frightened boy into a brave young man. Shortlisted for the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize.

Short-listed for Guardian Children's Fiction Prize 2016

Exploring prejudice and the corruption of the ruling classes, this absolutely gripping stuff. It can only be good news that more readers will find Landman’s books thanks to her Carnegie success. The Bookseller
This is a truly exciting story with a hero that we really want to succeed. […] We can hear the cries of the sailors and stall holders and smell the aromas of the sea. […] Yet another brilliant book from this Carnegie winning author. The School Librarian
This is a demanding, but highly satisfying, read. IBW Children's Book Guide, The Bookseller
“This book has a gripping plot but you have to know it is set in the past – 250 years ago. Great use of description crating atmosphere, and the end is very satisfying!” Teen Titles, reader review
“Murder and mystery abound in this engrossing and atmospheric tale set in 18th-century England.[…]. In her latest novel, Carnegie Medalist Landman (Buffalo Soldier, 2014) crafts a scintillating story of corruption headed by a winsome and tenacious protagonist. The author's concise descriptions of the sea's frightening vastness, the confining and insulated spirit of the small English town, and the provincial xenophobic attitudes of its denizens are almost cinematic in scope. Often mistaken for a slave, Caleb must endure whispers and pointed racism that are as historically accurate as they are disheartening. So riveting that the pages seem to turn of their own accord.” Kirkus, starred review

Tanya Landman has written numerous books for children and young people, including Buffalo Soldier, winner of the Carnegie Medal, Apache, shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal and the Booktrust Teenage Prize, The Goldsmith's Daughter, longlisted for the Guardian Children's Fiction Prize, the Sam Swann and Poppy Fields mystery series and the beautiful picture book Mary's Penny. Tanya lives in Bideford, Devon, with her husband and their two sons. Visit Tanya at

This item is eligible for free returns within 30 days of delivery. See our returns policy for further details.