Following international success with his historical fiction novel Owen - Book One of The Tudor Trilogy, local author Tony Riches has released the second book in the trilogy.

Based on actual events, Jasper tells the story of Owen’s son Jasper Tudor, who changes the history of England forever.

Both books describe life in medieval Tenby and Pembroke, and this new book tells how Jasper Tudor defended Pembroke Castle from a siege by Welshmen loyal to the English King.

Jasper Tudor owned a house in Tenby and used it as his base during the Wars of the Roses. On June 2, 1471, Jasper and the 14-year-old future king, Henry Tudor, went into hiding below the streets of Tenby before fleeing to Brittany.

They are thought to have hidden in the cellars of Jasper’s friend Thomas White’s house in the High Street, where Boots the chemist now stands. It is also said they escaped to the harbour through underground tunnels which run towards the harbour, and sailed to exile Brittany on one of Thomas White’s boats.

As part of the research for the new book, Tony Riches was shown the cellars and tunnels by Fiona Bousie, manager of Boots in Tenby.

Tony said: “As we entered the tunnels we were plunged into darkness and had to rely on torches. I saw an ancient fireplace, complete with chimney, which could be evidence for its use to hide people who might need a fire for warmth. After emerging back into the Tenby sunshine I went to pay my respects to Thomas White, who rests with his son in St. Mary’s Church across the road.

“We may never know if the story is true, but I am now convinced it was at least possible.”

The book, which was published on Good Friday, has already become a best seller.

Tony is now writing the third book in the trilogy, about King Henry VII. He is supporting the campaign to have a statue of King Henry placed in front of Pembroke Castle.

Tony Riches lives in Templeton

Jasper - Book Two of The Tudor Trilogy is published in paperback and ebook editions by Preseli Press on Amazon.