Dark Years · Book one
The Hooded Man
Published 28 Oct 2025
Book two in the Dark Years trilogy
Antoine Martinet returns to a France transformed by war
Charles Searle’s historical thrillers follow the adventures of Antoine Martinet as the French empire collapses under the pressures of war and anti-colonial revolutions.
Crossing the Lines publishes on 28 September 2026.
The Dark Years
Espionage at the edge of war
Across three novels, The Dark Years follows one man through a continent divided by politics, occupation and war—where patriotism comes at a human cost.
Critical acclaim
Praise for The Hooded Man
With The Hooded Man and its planned sequels, Charles Searle brings a rare mix of scholarly erudition and storytelling talent to historical fiction, ensuring his work appeals both to connoisseurs of the period and fans of high-octane thrillers.
Measured, immersive, and unsettling, The Hooded Man positions Searle as a novelist who uses history as pressure and a mirror.
Charles Searle’s The Hooded Man stands as a remarkable entry in the historical thriller genre, seamlessly fusing meticulous research with page-turning suspense.
Crossing the Lines - Book 2 in the Dark Years trilogy
What we thought: Intriguing WW II undercover thriller as the hero battles to bring down Hitler's plans for France. Conflicting thoughts cause play with the hero's mind as he sets about halting an enemy, seeking revenge, and surviving in a dangerous hostile atmosphere that has parallels to today’s world. Clever and addictive reading. Natalie Key for Female First
Meet the author
Upcoming events
Meet Charles at forthcoming book fairs in Keswick and Carlisle for conversation, signed copies and news from the Dark Years trilogy.
21Nov 2026
Carlisle Book Fair
The Assembly Rooms, Old Town Hall 11.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
05Dec 2026
Ulverston Christmas Book Fair
Swarthmoor Hall, Ulverston LA12 OJQ 10.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m.
22Dec 2026
Keswick Christmas Book Fair
The Skiddaw Hotel 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
From the desk
Latest notes
News from Charles, reflections on historical research, event updates and the interests that shape his fiction.
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