A team of archaeologists claim to have found the tomb of the original warrior Queen of the Britons – Boudica. It’s the story of the century and investigative journalist Charlotte Blood wants nothing more than to get the inside scoop. But Charlotte is not the only one hunting for the truth. Other journalists are also […]
Forever Amber, scandalous historical fiction that lasts… for ever
To mark the publication of a new edition of Kathleen Winsor’s scandalous historical novel, Forever Amber, the publisher Elizabeth Smith argues that this “brilliantly accurate” book is still relevant over 80 years after it first delighted – and challenged – readers around the world. “[Forever Amber] is not only brilliant – once you start, I […]
The Governor’s Man by Jacquie Rogers
In AD224, Imperial Investigator Quintus Valerius is summoned from Rome to Britannia by his old companion-in-arms, Governor Gaius Trebonius. Trebonius wants Quintus to investigate fraud at the silver mines he is overseeing. But on his journey to Somerset in the south-west of the isle, Quintus hears rumours of a Druid uprising. And when he encounters […]
Three authors on how small discoveries had big impacts on their stories
Three writers of Roman historical fiction reveal how seemingly minor research discoveries inspired their stories. Sit any three historical fiction authors around the table and ask them about their research and you’ll be there for a week. Narrow it down to the specific ‘minor discovery’ that changed the course of the narrative and you might […]
The River Warriors by Michael Arnold
The legions march inland, but progress is slow, hampered by vast, ancient forests, swamps and treacherous rivers that must be crossed. But, guided by traitorous Celts blinded by self-interest, progress they do. Marshalling the fractious tribes, Caratacos plans the first major battle for the only fording point of the mighty Vaga River. Meanwhile, Cullen, now […]
Legacy of Steel by CF Dunn
In 1477, Isobel Langton’s husband, Earl Robert, has returned to her after his enslavement in North Africa. King Edward IV welcomes him as a hero, but he is not the man who left almost a year before. His exploits at sea defeating Barbary pirates are hailed as a great victory, but they have left him […]
Squire by Griff Hosker
In 15th-century England, chaos reigns as a mad king teeters on the brink of ruin. With the loss of France haunting the realm, loyalty becomes a rare commodity and ambition serves as a dangerous game played by those who would dare to grasp the throne. Amid the nobles vying for power, a young boy named […]
Templar Assassin by Angus Donald
In September 1241 Robert of Hadlow, Templar knight, is on trial for his life. Some 20 years ago, his accusers say, he turned his back on his Brethren to join the army of the most bloodthirsty warlord the world has ever known – Genghis Khan. Robert claims he was on a secret mission to bring […]