Look what arrived, all the way from Prague! Copies of Ve znamení meče, the Czech translation of Sworn Sword, which was published last month by Vyšehrad.

Translated by Petra Pachlová, the novel is available in what I think (and I hope you’ll agree) is a beautifully presented small-format hardcover, and it can be yours for a mere 368 Kč (around £10).

The grand unboxing…

A closer look…

Even without its dust jacket I think it looks terrific.

I love the elegance of the design, while its format – only about three-quarters the size of the UK and US hardcover editions – means that it sits nicely in the hand and has just the right heft, in my opinion. It’s also nice to see the Bayeux Tapestry making an appearance on the spine!

For more information about Ve znamení meče, including the synopsis, visit Vyšehrad’s website.

My first new book of 2016 is almost here! I’m pleased to announce that Ve znamení meče, the Czech edition of Sworn Sword, will be published next month, and that this will be the cover:

Ve znamení meče • James Aitcheson • Vyšehrad • 432 pp. • Hardcover • 368 Kč

As you can see, it’s very different to the cover of both UK and US editions, and to that of the German edition as well, but I think you’ll agree it’s striking in its own way. It’s difficult to go wrong with such a widely known image as the Bayeux Tapestry!

Translated by Petra Pachlová, Ve znamení meče will be published by Vyšehrad in hardcover on 15 February 2016 and can be yours for a mere 368 Kč (around £10). Spread the word among your Czech-speaking friends!

For a fuller synopsis and further details, and to buy online, visit the Vyšehrad website.