Northamptonshire is probably the most unique county in England. Situated in the centre of England, the county of 'spires and squires' has suffered comparatively little from the ravages of time and the historical changes that have affected so much of the country.

Here you will find a wealth of architectural and natural wonders: beautiful views, varying landscape, fine stone-built villages and a rich concentration of stately homes. Still essentially a rural county, many a surprise can be found tucked away down its country lanes. The unusually narrow elongated shape, stretching from North to South, together with its geographical position and historical role, have also given Northamptonshire a proud sense of independence unequaled, perhaps, elsewhere.

No other county can boast such a rich heritage from the past: many important events have taken place within its boundaries, some of which have changed the course of history. Many secular buildings from the seventeenth century, and some even earlier, are still standing.

Over the years Ron Mears has spent many hours exploring the county he loves so much and has managed to encapsulate perfectly in words and drawings, this devotion and the inspiration he has gained from his work. His way with words - making the subject readable and easily understood - has made what can be a complex subject accessible to many readers. In addition, his eye for detail is second to none and can be seen in the artwork which accompanies the text, giving it extra life and visual impact.

Here then, is a book to treasure - a 'modern' history of the county of which we can all be proud. If your village or town is not here, it is not through lack of its importance or relevance, but because of space limitations - fear not, it may well appear in projected volumes.