Three Fevers by Leo Walmsley follows the trials and tribulations of the Yorkshire Lunn fishing family as they face the eternal struggle with the sea and the Fosdycks.
Although this is very much a novel, the 1920s story is based on true events. Written in the 1930s, it’s set in the fictitious storm-ravaged Bramblewick. However, those familiar with the North Yorkshire coastline will quickly realise the village is in fact Robin Hood’s Bay.
Three Fevers centres on two families – the progressive Lunns and the traditional Fosdycks. Both have fished off Bramblewick for generations. But as the Fosdycks have been there longer, they have seniority. This causes ongoing rumblings and a need for the Lunns to prove themselves. But in such a close-knit community both families must pull together to launch and bring the boats back safely.
‘I asked him if he thought the two boats would be putting to sea, and again he chuckled.
“They’re daft enough!” he answered. “They’re daft enough. The Fosdycks won’t want to go, but the Lunns will, so they’ll have to go too. But they won’t catch any fish,” he added, still chuckling. There’s no fish for them to catch. They’ll not earn the cost of their bait.”’
Our narrator is with the Lunn family throughout their ordeals and triumphs. He brings us into their world with rich descriptions. And there’s warmth, intimacy and humour in the everyday dynamics between the father and his two sons.
‘ “He’s not a bad hand with a needle,” said Henry. “My fingers have got too stiff.”
“Garn!” said Marney. “You’re naturally slow, like our John. You don’t give your mind to it.”
Marney did not look up from his task. We watched him in silence, as though hypnotised by that flashing needle; until suddenly the warehouse door was opened, letting in the full sound of the sea and the wind, and the puff of smoke blew furiously from the fireplace. It was John, washed and in a clean guernsey, and carry a concertina under his arm.
“God! It’s fit to blow house down outside.” he said dragging another fish-box towards the fire.’
What are the Three Fevers?
The ‘Three Fevers’ refer to the various obsessions the Lunns embark on to bring home enough money to survive, turn a profit and attempt to get one up on the Fosdycks. Obsessions that will lead them into the path of a horrific storm.
Would I recommend Three Fevers by Leo Walmsley?
Walmsley cleverly blends the cosy family life with its humorous incidences while capturing the hardships facing those who strive to make a living from the sea. Three Fevers by Leo Walmsley is certainly worthy of your attention so it’s a thumbs up from me.