Book excerpt: Crime and romance take over the idyllic Lake District setting in this first volume in Hugh Walpole’s, The Herries Chronicle. First published in 1930, Rogue Herries is narrated by the titular character as he describes Francis Herries’ story and his decision to move his family from their Yorkshire home to the beautiful Borrowdale valley in Cumbria. The tumultuous family drama follows Francis as he mistreats his wife, sells his mistress, and chases after a young teenage girl. His son, David, leads a life almost as eventful as his father’s, while his sister quietly dreams of things beyond her reach. Read & Co. Books have proudly republished Rogue Herries, the ideal period drama for historical fiction lovers.