A joyous romp through C15th century England and France!

Clan Destine Press is deliriously happy to announce the release of Harry the Fifth by David Greagg.

David’s retake on the bard’s Henry V is all that – and so very much more.

Starring kings and queens, lord and ladies, bowmen and swordsman, minstrels and actors, conspiring bishops and a vengeful friar, lusty men and feisty women, and a beloved village alchemist too far from home.

As England’s young King Henry V prepares for war against France, again, ordinary people on both sides – either reluctantly or in a quest for glory – are drawn into the fray.

Josiah Windrush, a gentle alchemist is tasked with forging canons for the king.

An ageing Robin Hood lends a hand when Robert de Brus, the good Sheriff of Nottingham, calls for volunteer bowmen.

John Paynter’s theatrical group is tasked to raise support at home for the war abroad.

Hugh Morton and his band of minstrels cross the channel with Lord Okehampton to entertain the troops.

In France, the Count of Vin Aigre, would rather stay home with his wife, but must provide all he has – a mere 60 men-at-arms – to fight for King Charles.

Meanwhile, in East Wittering, the beautiful Catherine awaits Josiah’s return; and good Father William takes advice from a statue of the Virgin Mary.

Harry the Fifth asks seriously funny questions about war – what is it good for?; and peace – a much better idea; about actual ideas – and where they come from; and about how to talk to the mother of God.

Also, what – if anything – do the ghost of Black Peter, Susannah Goat and her best friend Seth, and reggae have to do with any of it?

Cunning and comedy to their best to contrive as many happy endings as possible, in Harry the Fifth.