Author Chris Gladstone has just published his latest book, which he describes as ‘a ballad of Exmoor’.

Court & Dagger and other tales from Exmoor is written in verse. Heroine Laura Hay finds herself caught in the middle of a bitter and ancient feud between two Exmoor farming families. As the rivalry starts to get out of hand, little does she know that old friends and guardians of a dangerous secret are on hand to help her understand her past and discover her destiny.

Gladstone says the book was loosely inspired by the classic Exmoor novel Lorna Doone by R. D. Blackmore, although Court & Dagger is set in modern times.

The book also includes three humorous short stories in verse based on Exmoor legends.

Gladstone, who has a degree in Archaeology, says he has always been intrigued by folklore and the mysteries of the past.

Since moving to Porlock in 2012 he has carried out thorough research into the history of the area and written pamphlets on local myths and legends. His previous publications include a local history book. He has written a multitude of comic verses in recent years but this is the first time any have been published.

Court and Dagger is available for £5.95 or £2.49 for a Kindle edition.