A former Rochdale Observer editor has made a firm entrance into the publishing world as he releases a new political thriller after ten years in the making.
A novel filled with intrigue and excitement, Gerry Sammon’s ‘The Royal Deception’ is a rich portrayal of historical conflicts and political strife.
The story follows the thrilling life of British Special Forces soldier Tom Royle, who is swept by the unpredictable tides of war.
THE ROYLE DECEPTION: A Colonel Thomas Royle adventure by Gerry Sammon http://t.co/82U8FTYcTf via @AmazonUK My new novel is out now
— Gerry Sammon (@GerrySammon) August 17, 2015
‘The Royal Deception’ tracks Royle’s exploits as he fought during the Second World War, the British official governance of Vietnam but also during the Malayan Emergency.
He is then recruited by the MI6 and the storyline follows his journey as he operates for the Secret Intelligence Service.
The narrative fast-forwards in time, seeing Royle as a South East Asian History university lecturer who is plunged back into his past life on a worldwide manhunt after his MI6 status is re-engaged.
Set in Vietnam, China, Malaysia and Thailand, Manchester, Hull and London, this fast-paced and exhilarating story culminates in an unexpected and explosive ending.
Drawing inspiration from his university days, Sammon refers to one of his old university professors as a catalyst to the creation of his protagonist.
He said: “I had a tutor in South East Asian history who was reputed to be a retired spook. He was the most unlikely-looking intelligence officer I could have imagined, but then I guess that’s what makes a good spy.”
Sammon talks about his keen interest in the Vietnam War coverage and the substantial role it played in his life.
“The Vietnam War was something I grew up with, each night on the TV news and in all the newspapers,” he said.
“It was the first war that was given blanket media coverage, and it was one of the reasons I became a journalist.”
During the final stages the book, Sammon’s quest for historical and cultural accuracy took him all the way to Chongqing in China, followed by a tour of Vietnam.
Gerry Sammon has been a journalist for 35 years, the last 20 of which he spent editing regional newspapers. Earlier this month, he started as a tutor in Media Law at News Associates in Manchester.
Now a published author, Sammon has hinted at a sequel and possible prequel to this exciting political thriller.
Previews of The Royle Deception are available here.
