Having worked throughout Britain and abroad as a newspaper journalist for more than 25 years, Paul reckons he has had plenty of experience writing fiction! And, despite penning seven non-fiction history books, his true love has always been making up stories.

When Henry VIII came to Dinner gave him the opportunity to combine fact and fiction. It is his second novel, but first for young adults (and adults young at heart).

In another of his roles, as a tutor of English, Paul does his best to encourage teenagers to read – anybooks, not necessarily those that he has written! However, making history accessible and fun was the aim of his latest novel.

Paul was brought up on the outskirts of London, but now lives in North Cornwall with his wife and two teenage children. Cycling and solitary treks along the coast path (even the family dog doesn’t like walking) will regularly lure him away from his laptop.