The Distant Hills

The next enthralling standalone novel, based on true events, from Judith Thomson’s Philip Devalle series

1689. England is about to be plunged into a war with France. To say this does not suit half-French Philip Devalle would be an understatement. With King William III now ruling England, Philip, whose efforts during the ‘Glorious Revolution’ have helped put William there, is secure - for the moment. But his scheming has made him unpopular with many. William and Mary have no children, and with Mary’s sister, Anne, heir to the throne, Philip fears his future may yet be uncertain.

When he receives an invitation to meet with King Louis, the French King he has served in the past, Philip is intrigued. A gambler at heart, he risks the consequences and travels to Versailles, in the hope that it might be to his advantage. He believes he has no enemies in France. He is wrong.

Now with his life in peril, Philip must learn who wants him dead - and seek retribution. For this adventure to end well, no-one can be above suspicion... not even Louis himself.

A fantastic addition to the engaging and educational Philip Devalle series, this standalone novel will appeal to those fascinated by history’s political intrigues and larger-than-life characters, as well as those who enjoy a deft plot based on true events, where murder and scandal is rife and where players hide their motives in shadows.