ISLANDS IN THE MIST by J V Briggs, £9.99

JEAN Briggs is an acclaimed writer of historical fiction and in this novel she takes us back to second century Roman Britain, more specifically the north west coast of Cumbria.

It tells the story of Flavius Paulus, a promising lawyer and the son of a rich Roman wine trader, who is posted with his wife Lucilla by the emperor Hadrian to Fort Alauna, the present-day Maryport.

Flavius encounters many trials and tribulations, not least the ongoing struggle to build the Hardknott Fort.

Flavius's personal life, too, is troublesome but takes a more hopeful turn after his wife returns to Rome and he falls for Elphon, a Celtic native of the Isle of Man.

Islands in the Mist is inspired by the archaeological excavations at Fort Alauna. It is published by The Hadrian's Wall Trust and proceeds from the sale of the book are donated to help the museum at Alauna.

Other books by Jean Briggs, who lives in Maryport, include The Flame of the Borgias, set in 16th century Venice, which was named one of the 100 best books of the year by The Sunday Times.

ALLAN TUNNINGLEY