The Kings Head, by Jersey-based debut novelist Kelly Frost, is an insightful and visceral depiction of the girl gangs that sprung up in 1950s London. The one we first encounter here, the Kings, are renowned on the streets of Finsbury Park. Following a stint in prison, their leader Harry decides their territory must expand – leading to a battle with the nearby Seven Sisters gang.

Echoes of World War II, and its lasting effects, are also apparent within the group, and members’ conflicting and ruthless personalities become exacerbated each time they’re pitted against their rivals, leading to devastating consequences.

Frost’s narrative provides a vivid scene of 1950s London and its turf wars between the teddy girls. The strong characters are illuminated by the powerful friendships that develop; likewise, their ability to withstand external pressures, at least until the point where they end up paying for their actions. It amounts to a fascinating glimpse back in time, one immersive enough to sometimes make me relieved I wasn’t present in the dancehalls the Kings terrorised. A compelling debut: it will be interesting to see if Kelly Frost explores the past in similar fashion in her next novel.