Alistair Petrie

Frank Gardner had a love of all things Arabic and after studying Arab and Islamic studies at university, he became a banker then a journalist with the BBC. Ironic then that he was shot and left for dead in Riyadh by a passing group of Islamic extremists. His bravery in the face of his injuries and subsequent disabilities is outstanding.

For Best Mate, being rescued from drowning as a young puppy is only the start of his adventures. From unwanted burden to favourite companion, and from pet to champion race dog, this remarkable greyhound proves that it’s not just cats who have more than one life.

Tom is an apprentice at his father's printing shop in London. When his best friend, Will Piggott, is murdered, Tom - with the help of Dr Harper, investigates the murder.

In 1876 it took three tortuous days for Charles Bravo to die of poisoning. At the inquest many people were revealed to have a grudge against the young barrister, but no-one was convicted of his murder. Over a century later the author draws on new evidence to solve a famous case in criminal history.

In 1553, Lady Jane Grey was sent to the Tower of London by Queen Mary Tudor. This is the story of the young male servant, Richard Stocker, who accompanied her during her seven months imprisonment up until her execution in February 1554.

Three stories following the adventures of Free Lance, a mercenary knight. He is down on his luck so it seems like good news when the local lord wants him to recover an enchanted crown from the Lake of Skulls.

At midnight on 15 August, 1947, India left the British Empire. Within hours of the midnight chimes dreams of freedom and democracy would turn to chaos, bloodshed and war. Behind the scenes a secret personal drama was unfolding, as Edwina Mountbatten and Jawaharlal Nehru began a passionate love affair.