A local author has released a new book, bringing a "unique blend of adventure, time travel, and history".

Lynda Thrift's 'The Saga of the Sword' is available now online and locally from Kenilworth Books.

The book marries events from the recent past with those of long ago, taking the reader on a journey from the 1960's north of England back to 1066.

The story opens with a young boy, James, staying with his aged great aunt during the summer holidays.

Bored, he wanders to the local park for something to do where he makes a new friend.

One day, the archaeologists come to the field next door, but the boys are told they must not play on the dig.

So, of course, they do.

James stumbles across Viking treasure as he and his new-found friend play in the forbidden field. They discover the mighty Sword of Eir, which has been hidden away deep in the ground for over a thousand years.

Not only is the sword a magnificent weapon, but as young James finds out through the rest of the book, it has the power to bend the fabric of time and space.

Lynda, who lives in Knowle, says the story is aimed at the young adult audience, but added that older audiences will enjoy the references to the 1960s as well as viewing their history lessons in a new light!

The Saga of the Sword is published by Austin Macauley and retails for £10.99 (paperback). A kindle version is also available.