Books

Snuggle up on the couch with some great reads by local authors to keep you company.

Lies Beyond The Woods
By Fiona Thomas

After Emily makes a grim discovery while on holiday in Cornwall, a number of strange events play on her paranoia.  What lies and secrets are those around her hiding? This is a real page turner. Eerily atmospheric, there are twists and turns aplenty – you won’t want to put this book down!

Fiona grew up in Hemel Hempstead, and moved to Ivinghoe four years ago, where she lives with her partner. A civil  servant, Fiona’s free time is taken up with writing and she’s already working on her second novel.

For King and Country: The British Monarchy in the First World War
By Heather Jones

In a first in-depth study of the monarchy’s role during the First World War, Heather Jones affords us a fascinating  insight into what was crucial war work for the Royal Family. She unearthed a number of Berkhamsted connections  during her research, such as the King’s visit to Berkhamsted in August 1916 and a royal message of condolence to
the Sprunt family of Berkhamsted, who lost three sons in the war. The King’s message was so important that they  included it on their sons’ memorial tablet in St Peter’s Church. This hardback book would make a great Christmas present for history buffs.

Historian Heather Jones lives in Berkhamsted. She was granted access to the Royal Archives in Windsor Castle and spent several months there reading King George V’s wartime diaries.

The Secrets of Latimer House
By Jules Wake
Softback launch at Our Bookshop in Tring 30 November.

There’s something very special about books that are based on true events – and that’s the case with Jules Wake’s first outing into historical fiction. Based around the Buckinghamshire mansion Latimer House, which played an  important role in the war efforts during World War II, it tells the tale of three young women who, while from different backgrounds, become firm friends as they carry out their secret war work.

Jules, who has lived in Tring for 24 years, has been writing full time for three years. This is her 18th book and  another two are in the pipeline.

King of Dragons
By Pam G Howard

We love books that are set in the local area – and children’s author Pam G Howard has come up with another great  read in the second book in her Ashridge Adventure series. In the first book, Prince of Dragons, we met Princess Elvia  who formed an unlikely friendship with Flint, the servant boy. This time Elvie and Flint – now both dragon riders – each have missions to fulfil. More fast-paced adventure, which will delight dragon-loving readers, whatever their age!

Pam lives close to the Ashridge Estate where she likes to go dragon hunting with her labradoodle, Barty. Sometimes  they let Pam’s husband John come along too!

Local authors! Let us know about your book releases. Email editorial@livingmags.info.