An event to mark the 80th anniversary of the Exeter Blitz held a personal association for my family – and inspired reminiscences of our family’s connection with the railways and the bygone era of steam trains.

I’ve learnt a few things about writing historical fiction during years of researching, plotting, drafting, editing, and abandoning novels, and here I share some of my discoveries...

Considered a royal rebel, Queen Victoria's fourth daughter Princess Louise was an advocate of women’s rights and supported the suffrage movement...