In the Name of the Crown - Hardcover

In the Name of the Crown takes us on a journey through the 17th century. It begins with the trial and sealing of the death warrant of King Charles the first, and his subsequent execution. This triggers the abolition of the monarchy as the Puritan Republic takes over, but it is no match for the resistance it faces. Britain has not seen the last of the Stuart line, however, as Charles the First's exiled son, Charles the Second, is restored and begins the search for the regicides who sent his father to the scaffold. Two have fled to New England, to be joined by a third, whilst others will face the ultimate punishment. King Charles the Second learns of a potential rebellion in the colonies: two Puritan generals will attempt to raise the colonial militias and declare independence from England. He orders Baron John Belasyse, a battle hardened royalist, to hunt them down. The baron is teamed up with a local man - a turncoat and unscrupulous slave dealer. He sees a new country taking shape, challenging the perceptions of the old - but who will triumph in this struggle? Can he fulfil the king's orders? In the Name of the Crown is set against the aftermath of the English Civil Wars and the building of the United States of America. It will appeal to those with an interest in British and American History.

Anthony Matthews is a licensed Blue Badge and City of London guide and part-time lecturer at the Cass Business School in London. In The Name of the Crown is his first novel.