A Drake by George!

A booming sea captain brings his household, animals and appetite for authority to the Devon village of Highfield. Captain Drake builds Windward House, advertises his possessions on a large noticeboard and treats his neighbours as though they belonged to his crew. His clash with a local councillor over the board sets the tone for John Trevena's humorous novel, where village importance meets a sailor's boundless self-confidence.

The comedy also moves indoors, among relatives, money worries and competing claims to property. In a later breakfast scene, Nellie tries to keep Miss Yard's generosity within bounds while George complains about rent, a nephew's demands and the ownership of house and furniture. Conversations turn from a tomato named for a young woman to jealousy and guarded family information. Readers interested in village humour will find a story driven by argumentative personalities, exaggerated speech and the practical business of who controls the household purse.