I have written and self-published my book, Freedom's Path, under my pseudonym J.F.Peterstone. A lot of research and hard work went into producing what I hope is an interesting and enjoyable read. It is based on fact, but using my artistic licence to create the day-to-day action and conversation, thus bridging the gaps where the historical record is blank.

About me

My then very slight deafness was first noticed by a teacher when I was six, but the underlying causes were almost certainly present years prior to this. At fourteen I began wearing a NHS bone conduction aid with large, rechargeable batteries that were secured at the waist. Due to progressive deterioration I am now profoundly deaf. DIY occupies me from time to time, partly because of necessity, and partly because of the satisfaction of successfully overcoming problems. I am fascinated by history and enjoy walking and the countryside.

My book

Freedom's Path is set in seventeenth century England, when the county was in turmoil, and Cromwell’s star was, briefly, in the ascendancy.

In the aftermath of a bloody Civil War many people no longer found satisfaction in the sermons of a paid clergy, and were drown to the cosy domesticity of the fledgling Society of Friends, bringing upon themselves the wrath of the establishment.

The Wood family were particularly vulnerable to the victimisation, bigotry, seizure of goods and jailings that ensued, as their proximity to a neighbouring Justice and, for a period, occupant of the office of High Sheriff, was an unhappy coincidence.

Some of the families mentioned in my book did in fact emigrate to New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

The name Woodbury (a town in New Jersey) is derived from the Wood family name and the name of the dominant Lancashire town in their area of origin.

My book may be purchased from Trafford Publishing's website (external link, opens new browser window).