In this episode of Rock, Paper, Swords!, hosts Matthew Harffy and Justin Hill welcome writer and academic Dr Victoria Whitworth to discuss her new book:

The Book of Kells: Unlocking the Enigma

Victoria takes us deep into the world of early medieval art, manuscript culture, monastic life, and the enduring mystery behind one of the most iconic artefacts of the British Isles.

From pigments and parchment to spiritual symbolism, cultural context, and the sheer strangeness of medieval creativity, this conversation blends history, art, storytelling, and humour.

We also explore her research process, her time living in Orkney, how she approaches writing for academic and general audiences, and why The Book of Kells continues to fascinate historians, artists, and readers alike.

🔍 In this episode:

• What makes The Book of Kells so unique

• The strange, spiritual & playful imagery hidden in the manuscript

• How monks created vibrant art with natural materials

• Why early medieval art still captivates us

• Victoria’s research journey & artistic insights

• Her experience living in Orkney and writing about landscape, faith & identity

• The challenges of writing accessible yet rigorous history

• The ongoing mystery: who made the Book of Kells and why?

Rock, Paper, Swords links ➜ https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords

Buy The Book of Kells: Unlocking the Enigma: https://uk.bookshop.org/a/14768/9781788541800

Join hosts Matthew Harffy and Justin Hill for a captivating chat with Michael Jecks — master of medieval murder, creator of the Templar and Bloody Mary series, and author of over 40 historical mysteries.

From co-founding the Medieval Murderers to exploring how the publishing world has transformed over three decades, Michael shares his insights into plotting crimes, juggling multiple series, and keeping history alive through fiction.

Discover how he builds stories that blend fact, intrigue, and murder, what it’s like writing for publishers like Boldwood and Severn House, and why he’s still passionate about his craft after 30 years.

📚 Books Mentioned:

• The Piazza Murders

• Ashes of Rebellion

• Fields of Glory

• Death Comes in Threes

• Swords in the Snow (by Matthew Harffy & Steven A. McKay)

☕ Support Rock, Paper, Swords:

• Patreon: https://patreon.com/rockpaperswordspodcast

• Buy us a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/rockpaperswords

What really happens at literary festivals?

In this episode of Rock, Paper, Swords!, historical fiction authors Matthew Harffy (Bernicia Chronicles, A Time for Swords) and Justin Hill (Shieldwall, Viking Fire) sit down to talk about the highs, lows, and hilarious moments of literary festivals — from meeting readers and other writers to book signings, panels, and the chaos of travel and deadlines.

They share their experiences of festivals big and small across the UK and Europe, offer tips for authors attending their first event, and discuss what makes these gatherings so important for connecting books, writers, and audiences.

📲 All Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/RockPaperSwords

https://www.patreon.com/c/RockPaperSwordsPodcast

🔥 In this episode:
✍️ What authors love (and dread!) about festivals
🎤 Behind-the-scenes stories from panels and signings
📚 Why literary festivals matter for writers and readers
✈️ How travel, networking, and book promotion all collide
🎭 The fun — and fatigue — of the literary life

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