Backwater River

Image by Cathy Rhodes Photography.

Before writing a Filigree of Gold and the other Seeking Solus novels, I spent much of my limited free time, reading and watching videos about history. From the pre-history of people making animal carvings through to the Second World War. I didn't discriminate; I just found the past fascinating. In all the books, videos and podcasts on history I found a window in time, from about C.E. 1670 to 1715 in English history, that didn't seem to have attracted much attention from historians or authors. A backwater of history if you will.

Traditionally, the time line post-Tudor's is: English Civil War, Cromwell dourness and more war, Stuart mistresses, then almost nothing until the blasted Hanoverian's turn up and you can't swing a virtual-cat on the internet without hitting a million Regency balls, and a billion blogs on bodices being ripped or a Mr. Darcy's wet t-shirt competition. That is all well and fine, however, I wandered off the beaten track.

The time in between James II and George I is where I found my little world, a quiet little backwater in history. This seemingly gentle nowhere has a wonderfully fast flowing river of events, inventions, discoveries and most importantly, fascinating people. I set up camp on the bank of my Backwater River and I've never left. Join me and we'll read, tell stories of romance and adventure, toast marshmallows and sip smuggled scotch whisky or hot chocolate all evening long.

In these blogs we will be covering the real history and places behind the Seeking Solus novels, along with insights into the characters world. Each Sunday we will release a new blog, so please check back each week.

P.B. Phillips - Author of the lightly spiced Historical novel series, Seeking Solus: Life and Love as the First True Thief Taker.