Journey Through the Pages: The Stories Behind My Novels

As a fiction author, I've always believed in the power of stories to reflect the complexities of life, love, and the human spirit. Each of my five novels, from "Shadows and Solace" to "Whispers of the Nile," offers a unique narrative that not only entertains but also provokes thought and emotion. Here's a closer look at the worlds and characters I've created.

"Shadows and Solace" - Love Amidst the Terror of Auschwitz

"Shadows and Solace" is a poignant love story set against the harrowing backdrop of Auschwitz. It traces the journey of Elsie and Karl, two souls who find love in the midst of terror. Their story is a testament to the endurance of the human heart under the most trying circumstances, offering a glimmer of hope and solace amid the shadows of one of history's darkest periods.

"Fractured Shields" - Love, Danger, and a Hidden Secret

In "Fractured Shields," I delve into the thrilling world of American law enforcement, following two police officers whose professional partnership blossoms into love. As they navigate dangerous cases, their relationship is tested by a terrible secret one of them holds. This novel explores themes of trust, duty, and the challenges of balancing personal life with a demanding career.

"Whispered Promises" - Rekindling Lost Love

"Whispered Promises" is a heart-warming story about rekindled love. It's a tale of two individuals who, after many years, find their way back to each other. This novel celebrates the enduring nature of love and the idea that it's never too late to reconnect with the one who got away.

"Shadow of a Witch" - A Sinister Turn in a Family Saga

"Shadow of a Witch" is a dramatic narrative centred around an orphan taken in by a wealthy and powerful family. However, beneath the surface of this seemingly fortunate twist of fate lies a chilling reality: the boy is innately evil. This novel is a gripping exploration of nature versus nurture, set within the complex dynamics of family and power.

"Whispers of the Nile" - Power and Politics in Ancient Egypt

With "Whispers of the Nile," I transport readers to the ancient world of Egypt, a land of pharaohs and political intrigue. The novel delves into the power struggles and political manoeuvring of the time, painting a vivid picture of a civilization both fascinating and ruthless in its pursuit of power.

"Pendle's Curse - The RIP Squad Chronicles"

I've always been interested in the Pendle Hill witch stories after seeing it on 'Most Haunted' many years ago. I have tried to put a different perspective on the story, which hopefully you will enjoy!

"Hidden Cargo: Operation Crane"

I wanted to write about human trafficking from not only the victim's perspective but also from the police perspective. I know first hand, the commitment of police officers to catch those responsible, but also to help the victim recover from what must be their worst nightmares. I wrote this novella because, although I could have gone on and made this a novel, with a lot more shoots running off in different directions, but decided to keep it shorter for more impact. Sometimes, writers feel they must go on and on for the reader, but sometimes less is more. Why Suffolk?, well it's where I'm from and I'm a proud 'Suffolkite' and wanted to show that it's not always the Met, who get the big cases. I worked on the Steve Wright 'Suffolk Strangler' case and you can't get a much bigger case in the UK than that! If you have any questions for me, please contact me via the form at the bottom of the home page.

"Predatory Waters"

I'm a lover of all the 80's horror books, like "Spiders", "Devils coach Horse" and "Parasite" by Richard Lewis and "Slime" and "Slither" by John Halkin and always wanted to write a horror book in this genre. Someone mentioned 'Sea Monkeys' to me one day, when talking about toys that were popular in the 80's and 90's and it stuck, so that's what I decided to write about. A mutated form of the Artemia Salina are found living and thriving near hydrothermal vents, birthing the nickname 'Venthunters'. Let me know your favourite horror book and why in the comments.

"The Coin"

The Knights Templar have always been an interesting period in history for me. My father has always been a great lover of historical fiction so, as it entered my mind, I thought I would try to see where I could get with a story about the Knights Templar themselves. As soon as I started researching that time period one thought that kept coming up was 'The Coin'. I don't know where it came from, but I thought that would make a suitable focal point for the story. I wanted to link it up with a modern day slant so introduced Dr Evelyn Harding, who could do the research into the coin and ultimately Tristan. I have tried to include as much description of what it was like to live in those times and how Tristan and his knight brothers interacted. I hope you enjoy it and if there are other time periods that you feel would be good to explore please let me know in the comments.

"The Eagle's Rise"

I've always been fascinated by the medieval times, especially the Roman era. The incredible job that they did in building roads, sewers and constructing unbelievable buildings that still stand today! If only we could do half as good a job! The story follows Gaius and his sidekick Marcus. I wanted to create a series where we can follow Gaius on his travels around the world under the direction of Rome. What era in history peaks your interest the most? Let me know in the comments below. 

"The Castle on the Hill"

This narrative is also deeply personal being Ipswich born and bred. Debenham, a place where I have lived and which holds a special place in my heart, and Bedingfield, where my grandparents farmed and where I spent countless hours exploring the countryside as a child, are woven into the fabric of this story. These places, rich with personal memories and connections, form the backdrop to a tale that is as much about family and belonging as it is about the broader sweep of history.

Writing about Framlingham Castle and incorporating the villages that have shaped my own story is my homage to the land that raised me. It is an attempt to bridge the past and present, to bring to life the vibrant tapestry of medieval Suffolk, and to honour the legacy of a region that has given so much to so many. This book is, in many ways, a return to my roots—a journey through the mists of time to a period that continues to fascinate, inspire, and resonate with me on a deeply personal level.

Thus, in sharing this narrative, I invite you to walk with me through the gatehouse of Framlingham Castle, across the fields of Debenham and Bedingfield, and into the heart of a Suffolk that, though changed by the centuries, remains ever close to my heart. This story is a celebration of our heritage, a tribute to the enduring beauty of Suffolk, and a reflection on the places and people that define us.

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