(Image: Simon Wilkinson)
A Keighley author is inviting young readers to uncover the truth behind one of the world's most enduring mysteries in his latest children's fantasy novel.
Simon E Wilkinson has released Tom Lennox and the Loch's Next Monster, the third instalment in his Tom Lennox series, which follows the adventures of a young hero with a passion for time and space travel.
A mystery stretching back millions of years
The story begins more than 65 million years ago, when plesiosaurs basking in the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico are startled by a mysterious object streaking through the sky.
It then leaps forward to 1934, when a motorist travelling along the shores of Loch Ness spots a strange creature emerging from the darkness before disappearing beneath the water.
The two seemingly unrelated events form the basis of a mystery that young adventurer Tom Lennox is determined to solve.
When a teacher dismisses the Loch Ness Monster as nothing more than a fairy tale, Tom begins to question how a prehistoric creature could possibly have survived for so long.
An unexpected gift soon allows him to travel back through time to the Scottish Highlands, where he makes a startling discovery in the waters of Loch Ness.
'No one has ever known the real truth'
Mr Wilkinson said the mystery of Loch Ness has fascinated people for generations.
He said: “The beguiling mystery of the Loch Ness monster has enthralled people for well over a thousand years.
“Yet during all that time, the serene loch has kept its secrets safe and secure so no one has ever known the real truth - until now.”
The author said readers can expect a mix of adventure, mystery and fantasy as Tom's courage is pushed to the limit.
He added: “Readers are transported back in time to magical places where Tom's courage is tested to the limit.
“But the book comes with a warning that it contains secrets about the legend of Loch Ness that must never be revealed.”
Enjoyed by children and adults
Mr Wilkinson said previous books in the Tom Lennox series have attracted readers of all ages and have even found an audience in classrooms.
He said: “My previous books have been enjoyed by children and adults alike, and I have been thrilled to learn that many primary schools are using my earlier novels for their term-time read.”
The latest release is aimed at readers aged nine and above and features illustrations created by students from Leeds Art College.
Available now
Tom Lennox and the Loch's Next Monster is available in paperback, Kindle and other digital formats through Amazon.
Mr Wilkinson is also offering free visits to local schools, where he can speak to pupils about his writing and encourage an interest in reading and storytelling.