Tom Palmer’s ‘epic’ Second World War adventure goes to Barrington Stoke

HarperCollins has acquired If the Invader Comes, an “epic” Second World War adventure for readers aged nine and up, by award-winning author Tom Palmer.

World rights were acquired by Ailsa Bathgate, publisher at Barrington Stoke, from David Luxton at David Luxton Associates. If the Invader Comes will be published in May 2026.

The book is billed as “a gripping wartime tale of friendship, resilience and courage as three Cornish children face the threat of Nazi invasion”. Palmer said: “Sometimes we forget that the Second World War hammered rural and coastal communities as well as big cities such as London, and the more I explore Cornwall, the more I realise how vital it was to the war effort.

"Inspired by real events in real places, If the Invader Comes and the two other books in the Allies trilogy will delve into this often overlooked history, bringing it to life through the dramatic experiences of three children and their parents. Through extensive research, I hope to have given this story of courage and resilience in times of great danger the attention and recognition it deserves.”

Bathgate said: “Tom Palmer is a hugely important author for Barrington Stoke, with a deep understanding of how to reach reluctant and struggling readers with stories that enthral, excite, educate and entertain.

“In If the Invader Comes, he builds a compelling picture of what life was really like on the Home Front in rural and fishing communities during the Second World War, while also delivering a dramatic story of daring bravery. It will be an invaluable addition to his remarkable backlist of World War fiction that we are proud to publish.”