A successful Maldon-based author has published his fifth novel, a crime story set in the town, while his previous book could soon be made into a film.

Patrick Forsyth's latest novel, Where There's A Will, sees Kathy's life take an unexpected turn following a meeting with a prisoner.

After a chance encounter, she forms a new friendship. But the two soon find themselves on a mission to prevent a tragedy.

Patrick, 79, said: "Over the years, most of my writing has been non-fiction, but I enjoy writing fiction too.

"I guess it's what has recently been christened 'cosy crime' and, like my previous novels, the protagonists are ordinary people caught up in circumstances that involve them with difficulties or crime of some sort – here, a planned assassination."

Patrick's previous novel, Once A Thief has recently been contracted to have a screenplay written of it.

The author described this as 'a real accolade'.

He said: "Though any film is still a million miles off, it is a small step... and you never know!"

In Patrick's latest novel, the duo finds themselves on a frustrating path, sparked by a 'disturbing' rumour.

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They're hindered by the prison authorities, the police, and ruthless and illegal measures being taken in the City of London.

Though events are regularly punctuated with tea and cake, the two new friends find pursuing matters more complicated than previously thought.

Both are exposed to more danger than they had ever imagined.

In his review, Tony Fisher, a BBC broadcaster and writer, said: "Once again, Patrick brings a mixture of intrigue and plot-twisting while creating real characters you might just find down the coffee shop."

The novel is available to purchase as both a paperback and an e-book.

Copies will also be sold at Maldon Books, at the top of the High Street, for £7.99.