Now the Darkness Gathers: Britain's intelligence services prepare for the Great War

By Shaun Lewis

Britain's intelligence services must adapt to the growing threat of war with Germany

As tensions between Edwardian Britain and Germany rise, rumours abound of German spies in Britain disguised as waiters and Captain William Miller VC is instrumental in forming the new Secret Service. Unable to follow his heart and join the Royal Navy, his son, Peter Miller, a gifted linguist, is persuaded to penetrate Germany's own intelligence service. But when Peter's cover is blown, it has terrifying consequences.

Accused by his father of shameful cowardice, Peter must find the courage to win back the respect of the man he most admires. Volunteering for a clandestine mission to prevent the Germans laying their hands on Persian oil destined for the Royal Navy's new Dreadnoughts, it falls to him to uncover and foil a far more devilish plot - one that threatens to explode the British Empire.

Roving from the green hills of Lancashire to the Lut desert of Persia, this second engaging thriller from Shaun Lewis weaves together the early history of Britain's modern-day intelligence services, Britain's acquisition of Persian oil fields and the true story of a German plot to prevent the British Empire's vast army in India from joining the Great War. Above all, it is a page-turning account of one man's journey to redemption. It will appeal to admirers of John Buchan's Greenmantle and AEW Mason's Four Feathers.

Shaun Lewis was born in Rutland and in a career lasting twenty years in the Royal Navy, he served in surface ships and submarines, as well as in appointments in intelligence and as a Chinese interpreter. He now lives in Lancashire with his wife, Hilary. His debut novel was the naval thriller The Custom of the Trade.

Praise for Shaun Lewis from UK and US readers

"The author has used his own background in the Intelligence world and extensive research to produce a thrilling story that leaves one looking forward to his next book in the series."

"Shaun Lewis is showing potential to be a John Buchan for the 21st Century."

"Leaves you wanting more. A cracking work of historical fiction."

"Can't wait for more works from this exciting new author."

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1739786718
• ISBN13: 9781739786717
• Release Date: February 2022
• Publisher: Hilary Clare Publishing
• Length: 252 Pages
• Weight: 0.75 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 6.0" x 9.0"