Showing results by author "Matthew Plampin" in All Categories

Will & Tom is a glimpse into the life of the infamous artist J. M. W. Turner as a young man during a week spent at Harewood House, fighting for a commission against his childhood friend and rival, Tom Girtin. 1797, West Yorkshire. When young artist Will Turner arrives at Harewood House at the invitation of aristocrat Beau Lascelles, his intention is to do no more than sketch the house and grounds, receive his commission, and return to London.

Chelsea, 1876: Jimmy Whistler stands on the cusp of fame, ready to astound the London art world with his radical paintings. At his side is Maud Franklin, his muse, lover and occasional pupil, sharing his house, his dazzling social life and his grand hopes for the future. But Jimmy’s rebelliousness comes at a heavy price for them both as he battles a furious patron, challenges an influential and viciously hostile critic and struggles with a dire lack of cash. Before long a fight for survival is being waged through the galleries, the drawing rooms and even the courts - and Maud, Jimmy’s Madame and closest ally, is expected to do her part.

A novel of intrigue, violence and conflicted loyalties from the author of The Street Philosopher. Spring, 1853. After a triumphant display at the Great Exhibition in London, the legendary American entrepreneur and inventor Colonel Samuel Colt expands his gun-making business into England. He acquires a riverside warehouse in Pimlico and sets about converting it into a pistol works capable of mass producing his patented revolvers on an unprecedented scale - aware that the prospect of war with Russia means huge profits.