Peter's latest novel, A Garden Waltz, is now out in hard copy and on Kindle.
Set principally between the Edwardian period and the Second World War, the book tells the inspiring story of a once beautiful country estate – brought low by the indignities of time – being coaxed back to life through the redemptive power of love and friendship. At the heart of the action are five generations of women who, in their different ways, cherish the place they see as magical. Against a backdrop of warfare, hardship and industrial discord, the protagonists fight their own battles to save the place they hold so precious.
1824 - The Four Kings is also now available, via Kindle only. See BOOKS for full details.
This novel is a little different from previous offerings. Peter explains:
"I first wrote 1824 a quarter of a century ago. It is a "What If" based on the idea that Napoleon won the Battle of Waterloo and the French successfully landed in England.
It is a fun story but ended up in the infamous bottom drawer. However, 2024 arrived and with it a big birthday for Peter. A celebration was called for. Out of the drawer came the story - some additions and new jokes and suddenly it is the biggest (and possibly most ambitious) book Peter has yet written.
ALSO OUT
Published late in 2023, The Combined Operation is (at the moment!) a stand-alone novel introducing a new set of characters inspired by some of Peter's favourite writers of historical fiction. He found this so enjoyable to write, a second adventure is underway, due to appear in 2026.
IT'S GOOD TO TALK
Peter has given talks all over the country. His latest offering is "WRITING THE HOME FRONT", which explores some of the fascinating background to the 1940s storylines addressed in his latest novel A GARDEN WALTZ.
Peter's introductory talk about the Napoleonic period, "Love & War, Sherry & Tripe", has been warmly received all over the country. The talk balances the military realities of fighting a long war against the impact on everyday lives.
There is a talk ("Balls, Belles and Bugles") around the Waterloo story and "Fact or Fiction" focuses on the historical novelist's challenge in telling the tale.
"The Senior Service", examines how the Royal Navy helped shape our history. "Napoleon: Master or Monster?" usually succeeds in sparking lively debate.
"Filth" is just what it suggests, a light-hearted dredge through the mire of literature and history.
To arrange a talk contact Peter at peter.youds@btinternet.com