Matthew Hopkins; evil conman and serial killer. The perfect historical character to include in a children’s story!

I have been quiet on the blogging front and that’s mainly because I am busy writing the second book in the Gunpowder and Alchemy series. So, where am I at?

Planning; overall arc was decided a while back but now I have every chapter roughed out. We are looking at 38 chapters at the moment but no doubt that will change as we go.

Actual writing; first five chapters are written now (will be six by tomorrow and, say, twelve by next Monday…).  It’s so much fun getting it all out, finally.

Characters; we have a new perspective for this book in the shape of Writer. Book 1 was told entirely from Archer’s point of view but book 2 alternates chapters between him and Writer. It’s exciting getting to look out at this world with a fresh pair of eyes. As well as the old characters we get to see Archer’s family, the alchemist Cedd is introduced and, most excitingly Matthew Hopkins the Witchfinder General and his gang of thugs and assistants. I am also looking forward to writing Oliver Cromwell at the end of the book, too.  The last few weeks I have been researching these historical figures and have discovered some fascinating things I shall share with you all soon (for example, I discovered that Hopkins was pals with Cromwell’s chief of secret service… that fact has some interesting implications.)

Setting; as well as the Dedham Vale we are moving out to expand the scope which is great as I get to explore more of my alternative 17th century England with the characters. We are visiting a version of Colchester and getting there by boat around the coast of the Tendring Hundred. Can’t wait to show some of the rough and ready steam-powered technology of this world.

Okay, that’s enough for now, I am getting back to it!

Gunpowder and Alchemy Book 1 available now on Kindle

WHITE WIND RISING (GUNPOWDER AND ALCHEMY BOOK 1) is available now on Kindle.

USA and UK 

I just yesterday got a very lovely 5-star review that says:

Thoroughly enjoyed this book. I love the characters and the way the story has unfolded so far. The scenes are well described and I can’t wait for book 2.