Peter James
“It has been a great ride,” says Peter, “way, way beyond my wildest dreams. I thought I might do maybe two books, and then with Dead Simple people started speculating about what happened to (Grace’s missing wife) Sandy and I started thinking I could have some fun with this. I can’t believe I have now started writing the 18th Roy Grace book.
“I just really enjoy it. I am brimming with ideas.”
So, no, there are absolutely no thoughts of tossing his detective off the Reichenbach Falls as Conan Doyle so famously did to do Sherlock Holmes.
2-for-1 gardens – Wakehurst photo Jim Holden
Discover the woodlands of the world in Kew’s wild botanic garden, from giant Californian redwoods to rare Australian Wollemi pines, South American monkey puzzles to white-stemmed Himalayan birches. The woodlands and meadows are carpeted with wildflowers and full of wildlife, offering shady walks, sunny glades, secluded seats and picturesque views. With over 450 acres to explore, there’s plenty of space for long leisurely strolls and lots to enjoy in every season. Azaleas, rhododendrons and magnolias adorn the landscape in spring and early summer, while autumn foliage lights up the woodlands and reflects in the ponds. There are wetland boardwalks, lush water gardens and a nature reserve, while more formal areas include a fragrant winter garden and a walled garden brimming with colourful sun-lovers.
Amberley author Rosie Simpson is inspired by her mother’s World War One memories for In Green Pastures, released by Austin Macauley Publishers, paperback £10.99; hardback £12.99; and eBook £3.50.
Woolly and Wild gift shop won with 53 per cent of the villagers votes. Second place was awarded to The 5 Quarters and Parnham House Brides was given third. Linda Bindon, who runs Woolly and Wild, created a Christmas car scene with winter woodland animals, toadstools and glitter. “This year I wanted to create something magical to cheer everybody up after such a difficult year,” she said. “Unfortunately not every visitor always finds his way to the Dunster Steep - especially if they have parked at the Dunster Castle car park. “That’s why I feel it is important to have nice window decorations all year around.”