First Impressions

This week's competition, in which you have to identify a book from its opening sentence, is from a historical novel by a British writer born in Dominica:

"They say when trouble comes close ranks, and so the white people did."

* Entries, including postal address, should be sent to First Impressions, The Times Higher , Admiral House, 66-68 East Smithfield, London E1W 1BX, faxed to 020 7782 3300 or emailed to theschat@thes.co.uk

The winner receives a £50 book voucher. The closing date is January 24.

Nobody correctly identified S. Y. Agnon's A Guest for the Night last week, so the January 14 prize will be rolled over to January 21.

THES (TSL Education Ltd) and its associated companies may from time to time wish to process, or disclose your data to approved third-party companies, in order to monitor our service and send you future promotions. If you do not wish us to do this, please notify us by writing 'No promotions' on your entry.