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MIDWINTER MAGIC a Rockliffe Christmas novella

Reduced on Amazon until December 30th. E-book, £1.95 and $2.99, paperback £5.95 and $7.95.

This is an Epilogue to the Rockliffe series, not a Prologue and was written in response to the many readers who asked for a particular loose end to be tied up – so, to get the most out of it, it’s best to read the other books first.

Click on Midwinter Magic to order

380 years ago today …

The Battle of Edgehill was the first major battle of the English Civil Wars. It was fought at Edge Hill, Kineton, in southern Warwickshire on Sunday, October 23rd 1642.

All attempts at constitutional compromise between King Charles and the Parliament failed early in 1642. Both sides raised large armies and prepared to fight. In October, at his temporary base near Shrewsbury, the King decided to march on London in order to force a decisive confrontation with the army of the Parliament commanded by the Earl of Essex.

Late in the day of October 22nd, both armies found themselves unexpectedly close. They were of roughly equal size with a total of some 26,000 men taking to the field. Next day, the Royalist army descended from Edge Hill to force battle. After the Parliament’s artillery opened fire, the Royalists attacked. Both armies were made up of mostly raw and ill-equipped troops. Many from both sides fled and neither army was able to gain a decisive advantage. Of those who fought that day, approximately 1000 died and 2000 were wounded.

After the battle, the King continued his march on London but wasn’t strong enough to take it. The inconclusive result at Edgehill prevented either side from gaining a quick victory … and the war was to drag on for four years.

VENICE in Leo’s footsteps

Across the Grand Canal towards the church tower of Santa Maria Gloriosa – the first church where Leo will take Mariella to see paintings by Titian.

Titian’s monument in Santa Maria Gloriosa where he was buried. He died in the great Venetian plague epidemic of 1576 and was the only plague victim to be allowed a church burial. This massive marble monument wasn’t there in Leo’s day. It was installed in 1852.
The Assumption” by Titian hangs above the altar of Santa Maria Gloriosa. It’s considered one of his finest works. The church also boasts his “Madonna Ca’ Pesaro” as well as works by Donatello and Bellini.
View from the bridge at Academia (not there in Leo’s time) to Santa Maria Salute on the opposite side of the Grand Canal to Piazza San Marco.
One of the many smaller canals where Leo and Mariella could explore Venice by gondola.
Gliding down to Rialto by gondola. In Leo’s day, this was the only bridge across the Grand Canal.
The Basilica of San Marco and the Campanile. The bell-tower was first built in the 10th century but re-built many times – mostly due to lightning strikes. By the time of Leo and Mariella’s visit, a lightning rod had finally been installed and the tower was a popular place from which to view the city.
The Doge’s palace where Casanova was imprisoned. And atop the two columns, the lions of Saint Mark between which one enters the city from the water.
San Giorgio Maggiore – the view from Leo and Mariella’s hotel balcony which they enjoyed at sunset.

THE KING’S FALCON Audiobook

“A tale of war and witchcraft … plots and playhouses … love and loyalty.”

“Magnificent narration for an historical novel that is exciting, vivid, sensuous, and touching. What a remarkable experience!”     Audible 5 star review

The King’s Falcon  follows the Cavaliers’ last crusade and poverty-stricken exile whilst taking us behind the scenes in the playhouse. There is danger, intrigue, romance … and more than one glimpse into darkness.

Purchase now from https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kings-Falcon-Roundheads-Cavaliers-Book/dp/B09VQ58QXY/ref=tmm_aud_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1647596089&sr=8-16

The Brandon Brothers trilogy is now complete.

Leo’s story, The Montesoro Legacy, will be released very soon – so pre-order now from Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble and Apple.

A dangerous step-brother … a letter from a Venice …  a secret key … and London’s most fashionable portraitist.  Dark doings and deceptions surround an unexpected legacy … and an equally unexpected love story.