AUDRIC’S Way is a new fiction novel from a first-time author and Ilkley resident. Like many others, Ken Souyave sat down midway through the pandemic lockdown and began writing a story. A year on and several edits later, the book is published as an e-book and paperback and is well suited to young and old alike. For one who was ridiculed at school for his lack of reading and writing ability it is a complete surprise to Ken. Whether the book is a success or not Ken is already delighted with his achievement. “I didn’t have any thought of a storyline, I simply sat down at the computer and ideas just flowed,” he said.

The story takes place around AD700 and is an adventure with real historical events, characters and places: a journey via Northumbria, Eoforwic, (York), Londinium, Rochester and Canterbury. There is an element of fantasy but no magic wands or broomsticks. “Those who have read the script tell me they love the main characters and were always pushing from chapter to chapter to find out what happened next,” added Ken.

Ken is now retired after careers in insurance, teaching science and running a guest house in York with his wife Adrienne. In retirement Ken’s artistic talents have come out in his ink drawings but his main love is running and occasionally racing under the Ilkley Harriers banner where his first involvement was 32 years ago as a 40 year old.