The Blacksmith's Arm (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781955459952)

An exciting, heartrending, sometimes cynical, look at the English Civil War with some interesting historical facts of the time merged with possible events leading up to the second modern English Civil War.

The book opens with a peek at ordinary life in the 17th century. The journey follows the history of two lads from similar backgrounds that go through the usual traumas of growing up. They are confused by the happenings of the day and flummoxed by the fairer sex.

They each suffer a similar serious trauma and their lives are changed for ever. Both survive and through funk and desperation grow close to death until the ministering of a caring angel repairs both their body and soul. The difference is that they were born into different times, one in the 1630s and the other at the turn of the 20th century.

The book is not an historical tome, although the facts are correct. What it achieves however is a clear contrast between the attitudes of the common people today and the 17th century. Through some of the amusing tales and adventures it makes a good read and an interesting and pleasant adventure.

The English Civil war was a key point in our history. It crystallized the political, religious and social thinking of the time, culminating in the puritanical purges of the Cromwellian era.

Smile at the mistakes, sadly reflect on the horrors and laugh at the tales. Consider the attitudes towards politics, religion and social support of today and what could so easily happen tomorrow.

Most of all enjoy the journey.