A former senior editor with Usborne Publishing, Paul Dowswell is now a full-time author. He has written many non-fiction titles, two of which were shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Award. Powder Monkey, his first novel, was published to huge critical acclaim and was the first book in his wonderful Sam Witchall trilogy. Paul lives in Wolverhampton with his family.

'More vivid than a Patrick O'Brian novel. From the moment they open the book to see an exquisite exploded drawing of the frigate Miranda, all children worth their salt will read on to the end.' Independent 'A thrilling tale, exceptionally well written and affecting.' The Times

A former senior editor with Usborne Publishing, Paul Dowswell is now a full-time author. He has written many non-fiction titles, two of which were shortlisted for the Blue Peter Book Award. Powder Monkey, his first novel, was published to huge critical acclaim and was the first book in his wonderful Sam Witchall trilogy. Paul lives in Wolverhampton with his family.

'More vivid than a Patrick O'Brian novel. From the moment they open the book to see an exquisite exploded drawing of the frigate Miranda, all children worth their salt will read on to the end.' Independent 'A thrilling tale, exceptionally well written and affecting.' The Times