A DEVON author, who specialises in breathing life into true stories from Devon’s past, is looking forward to a busy summer.

Liz Shakespeare will be attending a number of events this summer to sign copies of her books and to talk to members of the public.

Liz said: "Writing is a solitary activity, so I really look forward to opportunities to meet readers when I give talks or attend book signings throughout Devon."

She has written six books set in Devon, bringing to life the stories she finds in old newspapers, on gravestones and in parish records. Liz, who lives in Littleham, has a long Devon ancestry which she feels has given her a good understanding of the county and its people.

Her most recent book, "The Song of the Skylark", tells the true story of a young girl who was sent out as a parish apprentice to work on a remote Devon farm.

"I am currently working on my seventh book," Liz said. "This one is set in Torrington in the 19th century and is again based on a true story. It will be available to buy next spring."

Liz will be signing copies of all six of her books in the Magpie Marquee at the Mid Devon Show on July 22, Clovelly Maritime Festival on July 23, Launceston Show on July 27, North Devon Show on August 2, Hartland Farmers’ Market on August 6, Okehampton Show on August 10, Chagford Show on August 17, North Molton Country Fair on August 20, Holsworthy Show on August 24, Torridge Art and Craft Market on August 26,  Lustleigh Show on August 28, and Clovelly Lobster and Crab Feast on September 3.

Liz’s books can also be ordered post-free from her website: www.lizshakespeare.co.uk .