The Wells: 1 (Hope Trilogy) - Tapa dura

In the summer of 1736, Marius Hope, a troubled young doctor, takes leave of his responsibilities at St Bartholomew's Hospital in London, and journeys to The Wells (Royal Tunbridge Wells) - an up-and-coming spa town set to rival Bath. Hope establishes a close friendship with Roger Dashwood, a man long acquainted with The Wells and its people. As he is introduced into society, Hope meets Elizabeth Conyers, the niece of Maurice Conyers, The Lord of The Manor. Their mutual attraction proves a welcome diversion for Hope. But, Hope's idyllic new life is interrupted when he finds himself caught up in a series of events - two fatal fires and a death on the town racecourse. He soon discovers that the incidents are linked to a scheme to wrest ownership of The Walks (The Pantiles) from The Lord of The Manor and its freeholders. Hope is called upon to make use of his medical background to aid the authorities in exposing the culprits. As his relationship with Elizabeth Conyers strengthens, the young doctor is forced to confront his increasing suspicion that Maurice Conyers is behind the murders and the plot to take control of The Walks. Drawn ever deeper into the intrigues of the spa town, Hope is exposed to ruthless attack. The pressure is on for him to find the mastermind of the plot or lose his life at the hands of his unknown adversary. This novel is based on historical fact.

Born in London, Patrick Gooch has enjoyed an interesting and varied career. He studied the history of art and went on to lecture at the Central School of Art and Design in London. He has also worked for many years as a marketing professional for international companies. One of his roles was chief executive of a British government-inspired trade council. Later, at the request of the Spanish government, he established and managed Foods From Spain, a campaign to promote Spanish foods and wines in the UK. For his service, he was awarded the title Commander of Civil Merit by King Juan Carlos. Thereafter, he joined his wife’s trade development company, which specialized in providing marketing support for governments of countries exporting their goods to Britain. It was while traveling to all parts of Europe and Central and South America that he began writing. He wrote several novels and it was at his wife’s insistence that he sought to have them published.