I first read Alfred Noyes's powerful poem when I was just entering my teens. Back then I was drawn to the daring theme, the relentless action and the sudden, shocking violence; but also the choice and 'flow' of the poet's words worked their own magic on me —- as did the obvious sexual attraction of 'Bess the landlord's daughter —- the landlord's black-eyed daughter —- Plaiting a dark red love-knot into her long black hair.'
I have rather shamelessly but I hope always respectfully taken Alfred Noyes's timeless story of love, honour, hate and revenge and 'retold' it in novel form. I did this not to attempt to make it 'better' —- for how can one improve a masterpiece?! I did it in order to explore the characters that Mr. Noyes created in more detail —- to get into their minds and, loving or hating them, to get to know them better.
In doing so I have woven many strands of my own into his beautifully crafted tale, fleshing out the main characters and adding a fair number more. I hope you enjoy reading my version as much as I enjoyed creating it.

'Sleep ye gentle, rest ye sound.'