Why did the English Civil War break out? The Blood in Winter tells the story of an English people’s great political awakening and of a nation that splintered into bloodshed at a terrifying speed.

After years of tension, in 1641 England reaches a semblance of peace.  Then comes winter. With it, chaos, protests, political deadlock, and eventually a remarkable attempt by King Charles I to destroy his opponents. On 4 January 1642 Charles marches his army on the small riverside city of Westminster, seeking to arrest five Members of Parliament, setting in motion a series of events that will lead to bloodshed and war, changing a nation forever.

Jonathan Healey recreates the claustrophobic atmosphere of the day.  It is a story of remarkable but flawed characters, all faced with unpalatable choices, and a frightening picture of a society in profound distress.

Jonathan will be in conversation with Prof Keith McLay, Chair of Derby Book Festival and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Derby.

Tickets: £10

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Author photo © Jonathan Ring