1824 - The Four Kings is 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. They occupied the south-east, whereupon a truce was called and a ten-year treaty signed. Nine years later, though..."
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. This was 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 "FILTH", a light-hearted dredge through the mire of history and literature.
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.
A purely social history talk, "The Home Front" is available, while "The Senior Service", examines how the Royal Navy helped shape our history. "Napoleon: Master or Monster?" usually succeeds in sparking lively debate.
To arrange a talk contact Peter at peter.youds@btinternet.com