About the Author

I live and work in Exeter, Devon UK with my architect husband, Steve. We have a great family, two clever creative sons. Two beautiful and gifted daughters-in-law and four gorgeous, fun grandchildren.  We previously lived in Berkshire, and I have been involved with interior and garden design development, having worked in the creative field for the past 25 years, training in silver smithing,  jewellery design and CAD.   

As far back as I can remember, I have loved to cosy up and read a good mystery or historical life account.  Sometimes as many as four a week! It's always been a delight to read and be read to.

I recall my mum introducing me to Georgette Heyer, Dickens and Christie.  Then I discovered Forster, Wilkie Collins and Dumas. What adventures for the mind and soul. Widening out to modern-day authors,  my mind has become a fertile ground for writing my stories. They have been buzzing around in my head for years. 

Coming to Exeter, Devon has been inspirational,  and I no longer procrastinate. I just now write! The rich history of this county and archaeological finds have sparked so many stories that need to be told .  The more I have researched and delved into accounts and facts about the people,  events from the past and this area,  the more I have come up with fantastic plots and fictional tales. Mixing true factual accounts and real places with events that may have happened has been exciting and enjoyable. 

Come with me on the trail of the ancient Romans to modern-day spies, intrigue and secrets discovered by my characters.  Family sagas and mysteries are uncovered and answered in this series of books, travelling through time from AD14 Rome to modern-day Exeter and Topsham. My first book in this series was Pomponia's Stylus, and the second is Olivia's Isca Whispers…..

The third will be….

the story behind Aunt Geraldine’s past and what continues to plague her life.  What did happen to her during World War II?  Where has Archie disappeared to?  

What will happen when she visits New York?  Is there more to be discovered by Olivia and Theo in Italy?  What did Nonna Francesca leave behind for Olivia and Theo?  

The next book in this series will start to untangle their lives and mysteries……

Look out for short story book coming soon…

and young adult book of fun and time travel.  ‘Trotters might fly’

You can hear these books being read to you on 

Youtube - PhilippaVarney

If you are enjoying this book let me know. 

email: pjvarney@gmail.com