The Rufford Rose

When gifted young woodcarver Cuthbert Watts is sent to assist in the building of a new hall in Lancashire in 1530 little does he realise what difficulties lie ahead. The Master builder, Abel, resents his presence, refusing to see his work whilst Abel's apprentice, Will is a lazy, jealous young man who thwarts Cuthbert at every turn. Supported by his fellow workers Cuthbert perseveres and after saving his life, befriends the young son of the owner, another reason for Abel to hate him. What is the reason behind this animosity? What great secret dominates Abel and Will's life to the extent that lives are threatened, jealousies grow and violence, arson, kidnap and murder are committed?

Margaret Lambert has lived in Preston, Lancashire all her life. Married with two grown-up sons, she trained as a Geography teacher but also taught History and Religious studies in secondary schools. A member of the National Trust for nearly fifty years, Lambert has volunteered as a guide and conservationist at Rufford Old Hall for the past thirteen years, during which time it has been extensively renovated.