Gold is set in London in the lead up to the 2012 Olympics. This is a novel about sport, but concentrates on the rivalry and friendship of three elite cyclists and their struggles towards the ultimate prize.  The storyline ducks and weaves, but the characters drive the narrative. You will fall for the 8 year old Star Wars obsessed Sophie;  the focussed, fault ridden Zoe (who I wanted to hug and then slap in quick time); Kate is a self-sacrificing, methodical and naturally talented athlete and Jack  is pushed and pulled between these two strong women. Cleave’s research is evident and the hard-work, torturous training and pressure of elite racing drips off the page.

Available in BLRC: F CLE