Rock, Paper, Swords! - the Historical Action and Adventure Podcast

What does it take to spend 50 years championing history's most maligned king and turn that passion into six published novels?This week on Rock, Paper, Swords, hosts Justin Hill and Matthew Harffy are joined by Anne Easter Smith, author of a celebrated series of novels spanning the entire York dynasty. Born near Winchester, raised partly in Egypt watching Suez Canal convoys from her window, and a resident of the United States since 1968, Anne has one of the most extraordinary life stories we've heard on the show, and it's all filtered into the rich, meticulous historical fiction she writes.Anne tells us how Josephine Tey's The Daughter of Time converted her into a lifelong Ricardian at the age of 21, how a chance meeting at a New York City party led to a publishing deal with Simon & Schuster, and how she built her six-novel York dynasty series from the ground up, always insisting on visiting every location her characters walk through.We also dig into the realities of the publishing industry: the golden age of author tours and dedicated publicists, the impact of the 2008 recession on advances and promotion, and the surprisingly personal dynamics of the agent-author relationship.Anne also previews her upcoming panel at the Historical Novel Society Conference in Maynooth, where she'll join Margaret George and Leslie Carroll to make the case for history's supposed villains: Richard III, Nero, and Marie Antoinette.Before Anne joins us, Justin and Matthew check in on their own writing: Matthew is filling in the historical detail on his first Roman novel (a possible new series set in ancient Rome), while Justin is on deadline for his latest Warhammer novel and thinking ahead to a contemporary shipping story.A brilliant conversation about history, storytelling, the craft of writing, and the power of fiction to make us feel the past.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/E0uAV2wuJg0Support the show on Patreon from just £1/month — bonus episodes, Q&As, and more: https://www.patreon.com/c/RockPaperSwordsPodcasthttps://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords

This week Matthew Harffy and Justin Hill are joined by Sunday Times bestselling author Elodie Harper — journalist, classicist, and one of the most exciting voices writing historical fiction today.Elodie's Wolf Den trilogy brought the women of Pompeii's infamous brothel roaring back to life, and her stunning new standalone Boudicca's Daughter follows Solina — the unnamed, overlooked daughter of Britain's most iconic warrior queen — from the chaos of the Boudiccan rebellion to the glittering, treacherous court of Nero's Rome.We talk about what it means to write from the perspective of history's silenced women, the surprisingly complex historical record behind the Iceni rebellion, and the fascinating question of what we can and can't know about Celtic Britain. Elodie also reveals why she chose Tacitus's single phrase — that the ancient Britons "made no distinction between the sexes when choosing commanders" — as a window into an entirely different world, and why she included human sacrifice despite her sympathies lying firmly with the Iceni.Plus: the spark for The Wolf Den (courtesy of historian Dan Jones), the emotional experience of visiting Pompeii's only surviving purpose-built brothel at dusk, the craft decision to write Solina's sections in first person present tense, and why even the villain of the piece — Roman general Paulinus — ended up being surprisingly sympathetic.Boudicca's Daughter is out in paperback on 23rd April.Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/RockPaperSwordsPodcastAll episodes: https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords

Justin Hill and Matthew Harffy are joined by historian Peter Jones to explore the surprising world of medieval self-help. Drawing on his new book Self-Help from the Middle Ages, Peter reveals how people in the medieval period grappled with many of the same challenges we face today—stress, purpose, resilience, and how to live a good life.From monastic wisdom and practical moral guidance to the everyday advice literature that shaped medieval society, this episode uncovers a rich tradition of self-improvement that predates modern “self-help” by centuries. Along the way, the conversation ranges across history, philosophy, and storytelling, offering insights for writers and history lovers alike.If you’ve ever wondered what the Middle Ages can teach us about modern life, this is an episode not to miss.DELEDDA MASTER: Master in Creative Writing & Translation: https://deleddamaster.com/Buy the book: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14768/9781529154863Podcast links: https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwordsPatreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/RockPaperSwordsPodcast

In this episode of Rock Paper Swords, Matthew Harffy and Justin Hill are joined by historian and novelist Edoardo Albert to discuss his new book, The Man Who Stopped the Sultan.The book tells the dramatic story of Gabriele Tadino, a Renaissance military engineer whose expertise helped shape the defence of Rhodes during the Ottoman expansion under Suleiman the Magnificent. Along the way we discuss the Italian Wars, the revolution in gunpowder warfare, and the emergence of the professional military engineer. We also talk about Edoardo’s fiction writing and his 30-Second Histories YouTube videos: https://www.youtube.com/@30-SecondHistoriesBuy the book:https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14768/9781472869999Podcast links:https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwordsSupport the show on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/c/RockPaperSwordsPodcast

In this episode of Rock, Paper, Swords!, Justin Hill and Matthew Harffy are joined by historical novelist Sophie Perinot for a wide-ranging conversation about writing, research, and the realities of the modern book industry.We discuss:Moving from the United States to the United KingdomAdapting to life in Britain, including experiences with the NHSThe importance of the Historical Novel Society conferencesHow historical research has evolved in the digital ageChanging trends in historical fictionWhat’s shifted in traditional publishing over the past decadeNavigating today’s historical fiction marketThis is an honest and thoughtful look at writing as a profession — community, craft, career longevity, and the changing landscape of historical publishing.🎧 Discover more episodes:https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords❤️ Support the podcast on Patreon:https://www.patreon.com/c/RockPaperSwordsPodcast#HistoricalFiction #PublishingIndustry #WritingLife #HistoricalNovelSociety

In this episode of Rock, Paper, Swords!, Justin Hill and Matthew Harffy talk with historical novelist Carolyn O’Brien about protest, power, and forgotten voices in British history.From the Peterloo Massacre to the rise of fascism in 1930s Britain, Carolyn explores how radical politics, women’s lives, and working-class resistance shape her fiction. We discuss writing politically engaged historical novels, the responsibilities of historical storytellers, and why history’s margins often hold its most urgent truths.🎧 Listen now and discover how history, fiction, and resistance collide.📚 The Song of Peterloo:https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14768/9781789550757🔗 More episodes & links:https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords❤️ Support the podcast:https://www.patreon.com/c/RockPaperSwordsPodcast

In this episode of Rock, Paper, Swords!, Justin Hill and Matthew Harffy speak with historian Sharon Bennett Connolly about medieval princesses, royal daughters, and women’s power in the Early Middle Ages.Drawing on Princesses of the Early Middle Ages, Sharon explores how women shaped dynasties through marriage, diplomacy, and inheritance, and why their influence has often been overlooked in traditional histories of the Norman Conquest.A fascinating conversation for anyone interested in medieval history, women’s history, and the realities behind popular myths.🔗 https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwordsBuy the book, Princesses of the Early Middle Ages: Royal Daughters of the Conquest: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14768/9781399091022

In this episode of Rock, Paper, Swords!, Justin Hill and Matthew Harffy are joined by bestselling author Vaseem Khan to discuss historical crime fiction, empire, and his novel The Edge of Darkness.Vaseem talks about writing crime stories set in post-colonial India, the challenges of research and authenticity, and how history, setting, and action combine to create gripping fiction. The conversation explores violence, pacing, power, and the responsibility of writing about the British Empire with honesty and nuance.A must-listen for fans of historical fiction, crime novels, and action-driven storytelling.🔗 https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords

In this episode of Rock Paper Swords, Matthew Harffy and Justin Hill speak with novelist Essie Fox about her latest book, Catherine – a Gothic retelling of Wuthering Heights told from Catherine Earnshaw’s perspective.Essie explores the enduring power of Emily Brontë’s novel, the risks and rewards of retelling a literary classic, and why writing Catherine as a ghost opened up new emotional and thematic depth. The conversation also dives into unreliable narrators, Gothic tradition, historical language, and how writers balance authenticity with accessibility.A must-listen for fans of Gothic fiction, classic literature, and historical storytelling.🔗 https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwordsBuy the book, Catherine: A Retelling of Wuthering Heights: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14768/9781917764421Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/RockPaperSwordsPodcastEssie Fox's website: www.essiefox.com

In this end-of-year bonus episode, Matthew Harffy and Justin Hill reflect on the past year of reading, writing, and podcasting — and look ahead to what’s coming next.They discuss the books that shaped their thinking, Bernard Cornwell’s The Winter King, Tolkien, Roman history, Churchill biographies, audiobooks, and the reality of trying to finish novels before Christmas.A thoughtful, funny, and honest conversation for readers, writers, and anyone who loves historical fiction and historical adventure.🔗 Follow & support the podcast:https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords

A Christmas Mystery with a Twist! 🎄In this festive episode of Rock, Paper, Swords!, hosts Justin Hill and Matthew Harffy sit down with author Gareth Rubin to discuss his unique "You Solve the Crime" novel, Murder at Christmas!Gareth dives into what it’s like to write a modern-day, Poirot-style mystery where the reader is tasked with solving the case. He also reveals the fascinating structural challenges behind his novel The Waterfall (a story within a story within a story) and shares his thoughts on the significant impact of AI on authors and the publishing world.Plus, hear the hosts' latest writing updates (first drafts, word counts, and editor emails) and their festive plans, including Christmas menus (goose and suckling pig!).Episode Highlights:Gareth Rubin on his "You Solve the Crime" murder mystery.The discussion on job losses for translators and illustrators due to AI.The secret behind the magician's disappearing box murder mystery.Matthew Harffy's experience at the Hans Zimmer and Gladiator live orchestra concerts.Links:Buy Gareth Rubin's book, Murder at Christmas: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14768/9781398543485All Rock, Paper, Swords! Links: https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwordsSupport the Podcast on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcastLeave a Tip on Ko-fi: https://ko-fi.com/rockpaperswordsKeywords & Hashtags:#GarethRubin #MurderAtChristmas #YouSolveTheCrime #RockPaperSwords #HistoricalFiction #JustinHill #MatthewHarffy #WritingTips #AIMurderMystery #ChristmasBooks #NewRelease #HistoricalPodcast #AuthorInterview

In this episode of Rock, Paper, Swords!, hosts Matthew Harffy and Justin Hill welcome writer and academic Dr Victoria Whitworth to discuss her new book:The Book of Kells: Unlocking the EnigmaVictoria takes us deep into the world of early medieval art, manuscript culture, monastic life, and the enduring mystery behind one of the most iconic artefacts of the British Isles.From pigments and parchment to spiritual symbolism, cultural context, and the sheer strangeness of medieval creativity, this conversation blends history, art, storytelling, and humour.We also explore her research process, her time living in Orkney, how she approaches writing for academic and general audiences, and why The Book of Kells continues to fascinate historians, artists, and readers alike.🔍 In this episode:What makes The Book of Kells so uniqueThe strange, spiritual & playful imagery hidden in the manuscriptHow monks created vibrant art with natural materialsWhy early medieval art still captivates usVictoria’s research journey & artistic insightsHer experience living in Orkney and writing about landscape, faith & identityThe challenges of writing accessible yet rigorous historyThe ongoing mystery: who made the Book of Kells and why?Rock, Paper, Swords links ➜ https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwordsBuy The Book of Kells: Unlocking the Enigma: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14768/9781788541800

Join hosts Matthew Harffy and Justin Hill for a captivating chat with Michael Jecks — master of medieval murder, creator of the Templar and Bloody Mary series, and author of over 40 historical mysteries.From co-founding the Medieval Murderers to exploring how the publishing world has transformed over three decades, Michael shares his insights into plotting crimes, juggling multiple series, and keeping history alive through fiction.Discover how he builds stories that blend fact, intrigue, and murder, what it’s like writing for publishers like Boldwood and Severn House, and why he’s still passionate about his craft after 30 years.📚 Books Mentioned:The Piazza MurdersAshes of RebellionFields of GloryDeath Comes in ThreesSwords in the Snow (by Matthew Harffy & Steven A. McKay)☕ Support Rock, Paper, Swords:Patreon: https://patreon.com/rockpaperswordspodcastBuy us a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/rockpaperswords

What really happens at literary festivals?In this episode of Rock, Paper, Swords!, historical fiction authors Matthew Harffy (Bernicia Chronicles, A Time for Swords) and Justin Hill (Shieldwall, Viking Fire) sit down to talk about the highs, lows, and hilarious moments of literary festivals — from meeting readers and other writers to book signings, panels, and the chaos of travel and deadlines.They share their experiences of festivals big and small across the UK and Europe, offer tips for authors attending their first event, and discuss what makes these gatherings so important for connecting books, writers, and audiences.📲 All Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwordshttps://www.patreon.com/c/RockPaperSwordsPodcast🔥 In this episode:✍️ What authors love (and dread!) about festivals🎤 Behind-the-scenes stories from panels and signings📚 Why literary festivals matter for writers and readers✈️ How travel, networking, and book promotion all collide🎭 The fun — and fatigue — of the literary life#RockPaperSwordsPodcast #HistoricalFiction #WritingCommunity #LiteraryFestivals #AuthorLife #BookEvents #MatthewHarffy #JustinHill #WritersOnWriting #BookPodcast

Actor, writer, historian, and national treasure Sir Tony Robinson joins Matthew Harffy and Justin Hill on Rock, Paper, Swords! to talk about his first adult novel, House of Wolf — the opening volume in a bold new Anglo-Saxon trilogy.From his fascination with King Alfred the Great to how a tragic loss reshaped his creative life, Sir Tony discusses storytelling, optimism, and finding new purpose in his late seventies.📚 Buy House of Wolf: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14768/9781408731536🔥 In this episode:⚔️ Why King Alfred still captures our imagination📖 How Tony lost — and rewrote — an entire novel by hand❤️ Turning grief into creativity and renewal🎭 Reflections on Blackadder, Time Team, and storytelling🖋️ The joy of starting something new at 79🎙️ Hosted by Matthew Harffy & Justin Hill🔗 All podcast links: https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords#TonyRobinson #HouseOfWolf #KingAlfred #AngloSaxonHistory #HistoricalFiction #Blackadder #TimeTeam #RockPaperSwordsPodcast #WritingCommunity #AuthorInterview #HistoryPodcast

What did it really mean to face death in the Roman arena? 🏛️In this episode of Rock, Paper, Swords!, hosts Matthew Harffy and Justin Hill talk with historian and bestselling author Dr Harry Sidebottom about his new nonfiction book, Those Who Are About To Die: Gladiators and the Roman Mind.Drawing on archaeology, ancient texts, and years of research, Harry reveals the brutal truth behind the Roman obsession with violence — and what gladiatorial combat tells us about their society, politics, and psyche.🔥 In this episode:⚔️ Who the gladiators really were — and what drove them to fight.🏛️ How Rome’s arenas shaped identity, power, and the idea of civilisation.📖 The difference between myth and reality in our understanding of gladiators.🗡️ What modern audiences can learn from Rome’s fascination with death and spectacle.If you’re fascinated by ancient Rome, gladiators, or the mindset of empire, this episode is essential listening.📚 Get the book Those Who Are About To Die here: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14768/9781529154009🔗 All podcast links: https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords

What happens when a medieval manuscripts scholar teams up with a bestselling thriller writer? You get The Tales of the Lawless Land — a gripping historical adventure series set in the chaos of the 14th century.In this episode of Rock, Paper, Swords!, hosts Matthew Harffy and Justin Hill sit down with Beth and Boyd Morrison, the brother–sister duo behind the swashbuckling adventures of Gerard Fox and Willa.We talk about:⚔️ Writing medieval action with thriller pacing📜 The impact of the Black Death & the Hundred Years’ War⛪ Excommunication, faith, and survival in the Middle Ages🔎 Researching manuscripts, relics, and real historical locations🗡️ Why Gerard Fox is like a “medieval Jack Reacher”If you love historical adventure, medieval history, or the thrill of Templar secrets, this one’s for you.🎧 Listen & subscribe everywhere: Rock, Paper, Swords Podcast LinksSupport the podcast:https://ko-fi.com/rockpaperswordshttps://www.patreon.com/c/RockPaperSwordsPodcast

🔥 Meet Tacfarinas — the forgotten African rebel who defied Rome under Emperor Tiberius.⚔️ Archaeologist Dr Joanne Ball reveals how his guerrilla war shook the empire and rivals Arminius and Spartacus.https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwordsSupport us on Patreon:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast🍺 Buy us a beer and get a shoutout by heading to ⁠⁠https://ko-fi.com/rockpaperswordsWas Tacfarinas Rome’s forgotten rebel? In this episode of Rock Paper Swords, hosts Matthew Harffy and Justin Hill are joined by Dr Joanne Ball (archaeologist, historian, and author of Tacfarinas: An African Rebel Against Rome).We explore the extraordinary story of Tacfarinas, a Numidian soldier-turned-rebel who defied the Roman Empire under Emperor Tiberius. From guerrilla warfare in North Africa to comparisons with figures like Arminius and Spartacus, Tacfarinas nearly destabilised Rome’s control of the region for nearly a decade.Dr Ball reveals how archaeology, ancient sources, and modern research bring his story to life — and how Rome underestimated this desert fighter again and again.🔹 Topics covered:Tacfarinas and his revolt against RomeRoman North Africa under TiberiusComparisons with Arminius, Verus, and SpartacusGuerrilla tactics vs Roman legionsFolk memory and the legacy of Tacfarinas todayIf you love Roman history, rebellions, and the untold stories of Rome’s enemies, this episode is for you.📚 Guest: Dr Joanne Ball – archaeologist, Roman battlefield specialist, author of Tacfarinas: An African Rebel Against Rome🎙 Hosts: Matthew Harffy (Bernicia Chronicles) & Justin Hill (Shieldwall, Viking Fire)👉 Subscribe for more on Rome, Vikings, medieval warfare, and historical fiction. Support us on Patreon for bonus episodes!#Tacfarinas #RomanHistory #AncientRome #JoanneBall #Arminius #Tiberius #Spartacus #RomanEmpire #NorthAfrica #RockPaperSwords

Author Simon Tolkien (grandson of J.R.R. Tolkien) joins the Rock, Paper, Swords! podcast to talk about his powerful historical novels, his research into the Spanish Civil War, and his work with Amazon’s Rings of Power.⁠https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwordsSupport us on Patreon:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast🍺 Buy us a beer and get a shoutout by heading to ⁠⁠https://ko-fi.com/rockpaperswordsIn this interview, Simon shares how he moved from courtroom thrillers to sweeping historical fiction, why the 1930s still matter today, and how his grandfather’s influence shaped his own writing journey.Highlights:Writing The Palace at the End of the Sea & The Room of Lost StepsResearching the Spanish Civil War and 1930s New YorkInsights on J.R.R. Tolkien, The Lord of the Rings, and the First World WarSimon’s involvement in Amazon’s Rings of PowerWhy history, memory, and storytelling still resonate todayIf you love history, Tolkien, or epic storytelling, don’t miss this episode!Buy the books from our bookshop.org store:📚The Palace at the End of the Sea - https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14768/9781662528644📚The Room of Lost Steps - https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14768/9781662528668#SimonTolkien #SpanishCivilWar #Tolkien #LordOfTheRings #RingsOfPower #HistoricalFiction #Podcast

Our guest today is Angus Donald, author of the Outlaw Chronicles, about a medieval gangster called Robin Hood, a 17th-century series about an unusual but rather brilliant chap called Holcroft Blood. And writing as Angus Macallan, he has also tried his hand at fantasy with the Gates of Stone.We previously had Angus on the podcast to talk about his Fire Born series, set in 8th century Europe. His newest book, out at the end of August, is Templar Traitor, the first in a trilogy based on the true story of an Englishman who fought with the Mongols on the side of Genghis Khan.Welcome to RPS, Angus.https://angusdonaldbooks.com/Buy Templar Traitor from the RPS Bookshop (affiliate link): https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14768/9781835980903Link Tree:⁠ ⁠https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords⁠⁠ Support us on Patreon:⁠ ⁠https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast⁠⁠ Buy us a beer and get a shoutout by heading to ⁠https://ko-fi.com/rockpaperswords⁠ Tips for Writing, Publishing and Marketing Your Novel: How we sold over 750,000 books!⁠https://mybook.to/RPSTipsForWriting

Today’s guest is author, J.C. Duncan. He is the author of The Last Viking Series of novels about Harald Hardrada and the The Light of the North saga, a historical fantasy series set in a world where the Vikings clash with Christian Crusaders. As well as writing, J.C. Duncan is also a bladesmith and there can’t be much cooler than forging blades!Justin of course had a novel about Harald Hardrada, so I think this is going to be a very interesting chat!Welcome to RPS, J.C. Duncan.https://jcduncan.co.uk/https://lorescape.gg/get/Link Tree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords⁠ Support us on Patreon: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast⁠ Buy us a beer and get a shoutout by heading to https://ko-fi.com/rockpaperswords Tips for Writing, Publishing and Marketing Your Novel: How we sold over 750,000 books!https://mybook.to/RPSTipsForWriting

⁠https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords⁠ Support us on Patreon: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast⁠ Buy us a beer and get a shoutout by heading to https://ko-fi.com/rockpaperswords Adam Lofthouse is the author of action-packed historical fiction set in ancient Rome, such as The Path of Nemesis trilogy, and The Enemy of the Empire books. His latest series, The Shadow of Rome, starts with Eagle and the Flame, which is out soon.Welcome to RPS, Adam Lofthouse!Buy Adam's books: https://www.adamlofthouse.com/ Other books mentioned:The Complete Roman Army by Adrian Goldsworthy:https://amzn.eu/d/6B3ABys24 Hours in Ancient Rome: A Day in the Life of the People Who Lived There by Dr Philip Matyszak: https://amzn.eu/d/5UI6O7oSex and Sexuality in Ancient Rome by L.J. Trafford: https://amzn.eu/d/9pX9Aew

Rock, Paper, Swords is three years old!In this episode, Matthew and Steven take a look back at some of the highlights of the last three years and then turn to the future with a very big announcement!Don't miss this one!Link Tree:⁠⁠ ⁠https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords⁠⁠⁠ Support us on Patreon:⁠⁠ ⁠https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast⁠⁠⁠ Buy us a beer and get a shoutout by heading to⁠⁠ https://ko-fi.com/rockpaperswords

Patricia Bracewell's website: https://www.patriciabracewell.com/Link Tree:⁠ ⁠https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords⁠⁠ Support us on Patreon:⁠ ⁠https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast⁠⁠ Buy us a beer and get a shoutout by heading to⁠ ⁠https://ko-fi.com/rockpaperswordsPatricia Bracewell is the author of the Emma of Normandy trilogy, which started with her first novel, Shadow on the Crown and concluded with The Steel Beneath the Silk. She served as Writer in Residence at Gladstone’s Library in Wales and has appeared at many Literary Festivals and writing conferences in the U.S. and the U.K.We had the pleasure of meeting Patricia in Devon last year, so it is great to have a chance for a longer conversation now. Welcome to RPS, Patricia!

Pete Brown's website: https://www.petebrown.net/Link Tree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords⁠ Support us on Patreon: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast⁠ Buy us a beer and get a shoutout by heading to ⁠buymeacoffee.com/rockpaperswordsPete Brown is a British author, journalist, broadcaster and consultant specialising in food and drink, especially the fun parts like beer and cider. He writes for newspapers and magazines around the world and is a regular contributor to BBC Radio 4’s Food Programme. He was named British Beer Writer of the Year in 2009, 2012, 2016 and 2021, and Fortnum and Mason Online Drinks Writer of the Year in 2015. In 2020 he was named an “Industry Legend” at the Imbibe Hospitality Awards.We chatted with him about alcohol brewing and drinking by the Babylonians, Romans, Vikings, Anglo-Saxons, medieval folk, and more. It's a fascinating interview, don't miss it!Welcome to RPS, Pete Brown!

M.J. Porter is an author of historical fiction and nonfiction. She has written about Anglo-Saxons and Vikings as well as three twentieth-century mysteries and Viking age/dragon themed fantasy. She is a prolific hybrid author, with independently published and traditionally published books.We met up with MJ at the HNS Conference last year for a quick chat, which you can listen to in a previous episode, but we knew we had to get her back on for a full episode. So welcome back to RPS, M.J. Porter.https://www.mjporterauthor.com/Link Tree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords⁠ Support us on Patreon: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast⁠ Buy us a beer and get a shoutout by heading to ⁠buymeacoffee.com/rockpaperswords

Link Tree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords⁠ Support us on Patreon: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast⁠ Buy us a beer and get a shoutout by heading to ⁠buymeacoffee.com/rockpaperswordsBuy UPRISING, this week's sponsor from Paul Bernardi! Buy link for Paul Bernardi's book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F38L728ZWe don’t have a guest today, instead Steven and I are going to talk about something that has been in the news this week and its impact on history and how we perceive the finality of historical events. But before that we’re going to give you some updates on what we’ve been up to and some changes to our Patreon.https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c4g9ejy3gdvohttps://time.com/7274542/colossal-dire-wolf/https://www.vox.com/future-perfect/407781/these-fluffy-white-wolves-explain-everything-wrong-with-bringing-back-extinct-animals

Link Tree: https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast Buy us a beer and get a shoutout by heading to buymeacoffee.com/rockpaperswords Our guest today has designed countless book covers, including all of Steven’s independently published books! Oliver Bennett is a graphic designer and co-founder of MoreVisual, a graphic design and digital media company based in Leicester, England. Founded in 2013, More Visual specialises in a wide range of graphic design services such as website design, logo design, and corporate identity design. You can find everything a writer might need on More Visual’s author portal: https://bookartwork.com/ Welcome to RPS, Oliver Bennett!

Link Tree: ⁠https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords⁠ Support us on Patreon: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast⁠ Buy us a beer and get a shoutout by heading to ⁠buymeacoffee.com/rockpaperswords⁠ Our guest today is Jason Kingsley, an incredibly successful businessman and a technologist who is also obsessed with the past. He is CEO of Rebellion Developments, game developers responsible for such games as Alien Vs Predator and the hugely popular Sniper Elite. Rebellion Publishing purchased 2000AD in 2000, and publishes comics featuring some amazing characters such as Judge Dredd, Strontium Dog, Roy of the Rovers, and Slaine.In 2017 Jason started a medieval history YouTube channel called Modern History TV, along with his brother Chris Kingsley, and senior producer Brian Jenkins, under the banner of Rebellion Productions. The YouTube channel has over three quarters of a million subscribers and provides a wealth of information. He also hosts the podcast, Future Imperfect.In 2012, he was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire for service to the economy. Jason published, Leading the Rebellion: Questing to Succeed in Work and LifeWelcome to Rock, Paper, Swords, Chief Judge Kingsley! ;-)

Support us on Patreon: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast⁠ You can buy us a beer and get a shoutout too, by heading to ⁠buymeacoffee.com/rockpaperswordsDonovan Cook is the author of the Ormstunga Saga series set in the Viking world and inspired by his interest in Norse Mythology. His second series, The Charlemagne's Cross Series, is published by Boldwood Books.Donovan was born in South Africa but raised in England, where his fascination with Medieval History, especially the Vikings and Norse Mythology, took root. His newest book is Woden’s Spear, the beginning of a new exciting series called The First Kingdom.Welcome to RPS, Donovan!https://www.donovancook.net/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast and X https://twitter.com/rock_swords "You can actually buy a version of Gungnir on ebay although it looks more like a fantasy weapon than historical     LINK  or this one which is more realistic but just the head £155."

Support us on Patreon from as little as £1 per month: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast Today’s guest is Edoardo Albert. Edoardo is a British writer of Italian and Sri Lankan descent. He writes about Britain in the early medieval period (between the Romans leaving and the Normans arriving), the 40th millennium in the Warhammer universe, and lots of other things besides. He has written several novels and also his fair share of non-fiction, so there is a lot for us to talk about.Welcome to RPS, Edoardo!https://edoardoalbert.com/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast and X https://twitter.com/rock_swords

Matthew Harffy has a brand new Western novella out NOW, and it's a prequel to his novel DARK FRONTIER. Buy it on Amazon, but first give this episode a listen, it's a good laugh.https://www.amazon.co.uk/Man-Dies-But-Once-Frontier-ebook/dp/B0DYJV6KF1

Support us on Patreon from just £1 per month: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast Today we're going to cover a couple of subjects. One that will be of use to all aspiring writers and anyone who is interested in the mechanics of writing a page-turner. The other will be interesting to anyone who would like to see behind the scenes of the production of a high-end computer game. In this case, HOOD, the game Steven worked on a few years ago. I’ve always loved games, so I am looking forward to learning more about the process of its creation. Hood - Outlaws and Legends Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast and X https://twitter.com/rock_swords You can find out more about our books on www.matthewharffy.com and www.stevenamckay.com/

KING OF WESSEX is out today! You can now buy the whole trilogy in paperback or on Kindle . Steven is really excited to see what people think of the way the story ends ... UK LINKUSA LINK

If you enjoy the show please support us on Patreon from as little as £1 per month: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast ELIZABETH FREMANTLE is an award winning author of historical fiction. Her most recent novel, DISOBEDIENT, about the Italian painter Artemisia Gentileschi, won the HWA Gold Crown 2024. Her first novel, QUEEN'S GAMBIT, about Tudor Queen Katherine Parr, was adapted as the major motion picture FIREBRAND, starring Alicia Vikander and Jude Law. She has written several other novels set in the Tudor period and, as E.C. Fremantle, a pair of  historical thrillers. Welcome, Liz, to RPS! Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast and X https://twitter.com/rock_swords

Please support us on Patreon from as little as £1 per month and get bonus episodes including exclusive updates on the creation of our 2025 Xmas novella: patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast We're republishing this classic episode as we'll be doing a panel with Giles and Patricia Bracewell on February 8th with the HISTORY QUILL CONVENTION. During the 90s Giles Kristian was lead singer of pop group Upside Down, achieving four top twenty hit records! As a singer-songwriter he lived and toured for two years in Europe and has made music videos all over the world. Giles is half-Norwegian and his family history inspired him to write his first historical novels: the acclaimed and bestselling RAVEN Viking trilogy. For his next series, he drew on a long-held fascination with the English Civil War to chart the fortunes of a family divided by this brutal conflict in The Bleeding Land and Brothers’ Fury. Giles also co-wrote Wilbur Smith’s No.1 bestseller, Golden Lion. In The Rise of Sigurd novels he returned to the world of the Vikings. His Sunday Times bestseller, Lancelot, is currently in development for TV. He followed Lancelot with Camelot, and now, Where Blood Runs Cold is his debut contemporary thriller. His latest book, ARTHUR, came out in June 2024. Welcome to Rock, Paper, Swords, Giles Kristian!

Support us on Patreon from as little as £1 per month for great perks: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast Today we thought we’d take a look at other literary genres that fans of historical fiction particularly enjoy, and why it might be the case. Now, we haven’t completed a scientific study or even conducted a poll on readers’ habits so this is just our thoughts and opinions. Feel free to chime in here or on social media and let us know what you think! Useful links:  https://www.literature-map.com/ Robert Silverberg - The Second Trip - just 99p on Kindle UK! Please note, I didn’t remember the plot when I mentioned it in the episode - I read it more than 30 years ago - but apparently there’s graphic sexual assault scenes so be aware of that if thinking of reading it. Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast and X https://twitter.com/rock_swords  Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast 

Support us on Patreon from as little as £1 per month: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast A. D. Rhine is the pseudonym of Ashlee Cowles and Danielle Stinson. Ashlee holds graduate degrees in medieval history from the University of St. Andrews and theological studies from Duke University. Danielle holds a master of arts in law and diplomacy from Tufts University. Their novels Horses of Fire & Daughters of Bronze, is an epic retelling of the Trojan War, the story they have always dreamt of writing together. We met Ashlee and Danielle in Devon at the HNS Conference in September last year. We had a great chat over coffee, but knew we had to get them back on the podcast for a longer discussion of their collaborative writing process and their books. Welcome back to RPS A. D. Rhine. Take the "What's your ancient archetype" quiz here - https://www.adrhine.com/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast and X https://twitter.com/rock_swords

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast Happy New Year listeners! Patrons get bonus episodes every month and we thought we’d share one with you so that you can get a taste of what you are missing. We’ve done episodes on all sorts of topics from reviews of movies and TV series, aspects of writing and publishing and, in 2025, we’re going to write a novella together, and we’ll be giving patrons an inside look into the process of our collaboration, from initial planning, through writing, editing and finally the cover design and publishing. Patrons also get a free copy of our non-fiction book! Our first bonus episode, was a chat about one of our very favourite authors, David Gemmell, and in particular his debut novel, Legend. So, without further ado, here’s that episode and, if you’d like to hear more and get the other perks, sign up to Patreon! https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Gemmell https://www.wisdomofgemmell.com/wisdom-of-david-gemmell-archive/

Thank you listeners for your support in 2024. We've had an AMAZING year, topped off by our time at the HNS Conference, and it's all thanks to your support. Cheers, and here's to a great 2025 for us all. If you enjoy the show and feel like you could support us for as little as £1 a month, check us out on Patreon and get bonus episodes and other great perks! patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast

Support us on Patreon, where you can even give a loved one a GIFT subscription: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast Welcome to the RPS Xmas Special 2024! We take a look at some of the best seasonal books like Charles Dickens's "A Christmas Carol", movies like Lethal Weapon (!), and all the classic music we enjoy at this time of year. Like "Wassail The Night Away"! We also discuss the possibility of us collaborating on a Christmas novella TOGETHER in 2025... It's a fun, if slightly rambling and disjointed episode, but hey, it's Christmas. God bless us, everyone. The History Quill Convention 2025 https://thehistoryquill.com/convention-2025/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast and X https://twitter.com/rock_swords

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast Jane Johnson is from Cornwall and has worked in the book industry for 30 years as a bookseller, publisher and writer. For many years she was responsible for publishing the works of JRR Tolkien, and later worked on Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings movie trilogy, spending months in New Zealand with cast and crew (she wrote the official visual companions to the films). The authors she publishes include George R.R. Martin, Dean Koontz, Robin Hobb, Mark Lawrence and Raymond E Feist. While she was in Morocco in 2005 to research The Tenth Gift she met her soon-to-be husband, a Berber tribesman from a village in the Anti-Atlas Mountains. Returning home, she gave up her office job in London, sold her flat and shipped the contents to Morocco and they were married later that year. They now split their time between Cornwall and Morocco, and Jane still works remotely as a Fiction Publishing Director for HarperCollins. We met Jane in Dartington Hall at the HNS Conference back in September and you can listen to that short episode (and watch the video on our Youtube channel), but when we read her CV, we knew we had to get her back for a full episode. Welcome back to RPS, Jane Johnson! Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast and X https://twitter.com/rock_swords 

Matthew Harffy has a new book out on December 5th called Shadows of the Slain. We chat about it in this episode, and you can buy it at the link below! Buy the book: https://mybook.to/ShadowsOfTheSlain Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast and X https://twitter.com/rock_swords  Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast Dr Ian Mortimer is best known as the Sunday Times-bestselling author of the four Time Traveller's Guides - to Medieval England, Elizabethan England, Restoration Britain and Regency Britain - as well as four critically acclaimed medieval biographies, a prize-winning novel and several other titles. His books have been translated into sixteen languages. He is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries. He has been described by The Times as 'the most remarkable medieval historian of our time'. He lives in Devon, where Steven and I met him recently at the Historical Novel Society Conference. We had a lovely chat with him there and you can listen to that episode or even watch the video on our YouTube channel. But we didn’t have time for a full episode and there were so many more questions we wanted to ask, so we are delighted to have Ian back on the podcast. Welcome back to RPS, Ian! Useful links: https://www.ianmortimer.com/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast and X https://twitter.com/rock_swords

https://mybook.to/HereticPriory Steven's new winter novella is out today! Well, it's actually TWO stories in one collection - The Heretic of Haltemprice Priory is the main story, a novella that sees Tuck, Will and Little John joining forces again to investigate some eldritch happenings at a medieval priory just before Xmas. The second tale, The Christmas Hunt, features Tuck and John searching for Will who's gone missing after chasing some thieves off his farm during a snowstorm on Xmas Eve. Find out a little bit more about the stories in this bonus episode and please do buy the new book here: https://mybook.to/HereticPriory

Support us on Patreon: ⁠https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast⁠ We're thrilled to welcome a true writing legend to the podcast today, and one of my favourite authors! With a career spanning over four decades, Joe R. Lansdale is the award-winning author of more than 50 novels and countless short stories, spanning horror, crime, westerns, and more. His unique voice, dark humor, and vivid storytelling have earned him fans all over the world, TV series and film adaptations of his work, and numerous accolades, such as the British Fantasy Award, the American Horror Award, the Edgar Award, and eleven Bram Stoker Awards! Most recently he has published Sugar on the Bones, the latest in the extremely popular Hap and Leonard series, and the movie of his novel, The Thicket, starring Peter Dinklage, Juliette Lewis and James Hetfield has just been released. In October he has a collection of stories coming out entitled: In the Mad Mountains: Stories inspired by H. P. Lovecraft. Welcome to RPS, Joe R. Lansdale. Useful links: https://www.joerlansdale.com/  Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast and X https://twitter.com/rock_swords 

Last year we released a festive rock song called "Christmas is Coming" (you can find the normal version AND an acoustic version on streaming services) and we had so much fun that we decided to do it again this year. "Wassail The Night Away" is our best song yet! We hope you all love it and it helps make Christmas 2024 the best one ever. Find it on all major streaming services like Spotify, Amazon Music, iTunes, YouTube etc and add it to your winter playlists! Support us on Patreon! Our Top Fans and Producers got to hear "Wassail The Night Away" days ago and you too can get bonus content by supporting us and helping us with our running costs from as little as £1 per month! patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast

Today we're discussing the master of cosmic horror himself, HP Lovecraft! Author of stories like The Call of Cthulhu, The Shadow Over Innsmouth, The Thing on the Doorstep, and a ton more.  Howard Phillips Lovecraft was born on August 20, 1890 and died March 15, 1937 when he was just 46. He's inspired authors like Stephen King and bands like Metallica. Was he any good? Join us this Halloween to find out! Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast and X https://twitter.com/rock_swords  Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast  HPL’s works for FREE online - https://www.hplovecraft.com/writings/texts/ “The Case of Charles Dexter Ward” - https://www.hplovecraft.com/writings/texts/fiction/cdw.aspx Audible - https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/The-Complete-Fiction-of-HP-Lovecraft-Audiobook/B07NRT2886 Francois Baranger - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Dunwich-Horror-Francois-Baranger/dp/1624650775 LOVECRAFTIAN MUSIC: Sulphur Aeon - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3QYogaCuP8&ab_channel=vanrecords Ulthar - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBS6giWHZPA&list=OLAK5uy_nJIYHBigjHNxQkChry2S06JNgP9MosXfk&index=2&ab_channel=Ulthar-Topic Nile - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3iQbAB_yrY&ab_channel=Nile-Topic Metallica - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3vSH9pMzHm0&ab_channel=Metallica-Topic Morbid Angel - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYACQcg3_Fg&ab_channel=EaracheRecords

Support us on Patreon and get bonus episodes every month: https://www.patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast Guy Windsor is a swordsmanship practitioner, instructor, researcher, writer, and also an entrepreneur. On his website swordschool.com he states his mission in life is to restore historical martial arts to their rightful place at the heart of our culture. He has a blog, books, has developed training courses, and is the host of a podcast called The Sword Guy. As Steven and I often write about swords and combat, Guy seemed like a perfect guest for the podcast. Welcome to RPS, Guy Windsor. Useful links: https://swordschool.com/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast and X https://twitter.com/rock_swords

Steven's new novel is out on Monday, 7th October 2024! Book 6 in the Warrior Druid of Britain Chronicles, THE VENGEANCE OF MERLIN is finally here after a 2 year break! We have a quick chat about that book as well as what Matthew is working on right now, and what's to come for us both in the coming months (including an EXCLUSIVE reveal of Steven's new Forest Lord novella's title). Join us on Patreon for monthly bonus episodes, a FREE copy of our book Tips for Writing, Publishing and Marketing Your Novel, and more perks. patreon.com/RockPaperSwordsPodcast