A former banker from Stourbridge has picked up his pen to author his first novel.

Having worked in banking and commercial finance for over 50 years, Chris Brown has spent his retirement crafting his debut book, The Z Affair.

Brown said: "You're never too old to write a novel."

The novel, a quasi-spy story set in 1971, is inspired by the spy and crime thrillers of Brown's youth.

The book's plot involves espionage, murder, romance, and treachery, with a fight for the political survival of the UK at its core.

The story follows primary characters Philip Trent and Camille as they endure a dangerous journey across the West Midlands, London, Paris, and Wales.

Camille is described as a strong, multi-dimensional female figure, reflecting the demand for complex female characters in contemporary literature.

Common themes in the novel reflect modern times, like social unrest and media manipulation.

Trent, portrayed as a working-class 'hero' from the Black Country, offers an authentic depiction of the industrial West Midlands.

Brown, who has lived across the West Midlands, including Dudley and Halesowen, draws upon his knowledge of the region for the backdrop to the book.

The Z Affair is available for purchase on all major platforms including Amazon and at book retailers across the UK.