Wow.. A thrilling read to the very last page.

Told mostly in realtime, THREE HOURS is about a school in Lockdown. On a cold blisteringly winter day this liberal school is under siege. Hate and terror rain over key buildings and classrooms as gunmen execute their plans to kill and destroy.

Centred around a few key characters, the compassionate headteacher Mr Marr who lies injured in the Library and is being cared for by love stricken teen Hannah to Rafi the Syrian refugee trying to rescue his little brother. Drama quite literally plays a part in the story too as many students are safely being held in the schools purpose built theatre rehersing for a play.

This is an intense read.

Whilst this novel is firmly placed in the suspense and thriller category for me the central themes has to be of one of love, hope and humanity. Above all, love. Love penetrates this narrative it is courageous, brave and selfless.

In the powerful storytelling from Lupton she showcases the resilience of the whole school community during a crisis situation. It really is a superb novel, and I am totally drawn to focusing on how it makes you feel the moment the story it comes to the end. THREE HOURS is gripping. Gripping to the very last page.