Heroine takes centre stage in Laura's debut novel set in Medieval Leicestershire
A Melton Mowbray woman’s debut novel features the story of a fictional heroine doing extraordinary things in Medieval times.
Laura Johnson‑Smith was excited to write The Rose Amongst the Thorns because it combines her love of history for her pride in living in Leicester and Leicestershire.
She describes it as ‘a positive local story about creativity and perseverance’ which is set during the reign of King Richard III, whose remains were famously unearthed by archaeologists in 2012 while conducting a dig in a Leicester car park.
On her new book, Laura told the Melton Times: “I have always loved history, and I was particularly drawn to the late‑Medieval period, as it perfectly suited the story I wanted to tell.
“Leicester, my city of birth, is synonymous with King Richard III, even long before his remains were discovered over 10 years ago, so weaving that element into the novel felt natural and meaningful.
“The book is set in Leicestershire because I wanted to put Leicester and the county on the map, celebrating my home county.
“Key historical landmarks such as Leicester Castle, the Guild Hall, St Martin’s Cathedral, Greyfriars and the surrounding national forest all feature in the book.”
The book is published by The Book Guild and copies can be bought from it, as well as outlets such as Waterstones, TG Jones, Foxy Lots in Melton and all major online retailers including Amazon, in both paperback and eBook.
Laura, who lives with her husband and two cats, added: “Although The Rose Amongst the Thorns is historical fiction, I chose not to base the story on a real woman.
“There are a few remarkable women from that era, but none I felt I could portray with full justice.
“Instead, I created a fictional heroine while grounding her world in real places and settings.
“I wanted readers to be able to visit these locations today and feel the echoes of the story around them.
“The only true historical figure who appears is King Richard III, and writing him was a particular joy, finally giving him a voice that has so often been misconstrued in the past.”
Laura will be at the Writer’s Fair in Leicester on Saturday October 24 and you can also follow her at @LJohnsonSmith23 on her Instagram page.