In 1925 a fire ripped through the Marylebone premises of Madame Tussaud's waxworks. Little was left beyond a few grotesquely distorted models. It had also been a museum of 'priceless' curiosities. With unique access to archives, the authors expose some major discrepancies relating to Madame Tussaud herself and the authenticity of her collection.
Christopher Joll Book order






- 2023
- 2021
To give political legitimacy to his Empire, Emperor Napoleon I created an enduring image of Napoleonic France as the contemporary equivalent of Imperial Rome. The tangible remains of this grand, imperial 'theatre' has excited collectors ever since.
- 2020
Set against the backdrop of a tumultuous Europe oscillating between war and peace, the narrative weaves a tale of resilience and human connection. Characters navigate their lives amidst political upheaval, exploring themes of love, loss, and survival. The story delves into the impact of historical events on personal lives, revealing how individuals confront their destinies while grappling with the chaos surrounding them. Through rich character development and evocative settings, the book captures the essence of a continent in turmoil.
- 2020
The final installment of The Speedicut Memoirs delves into the life of the enigmatic protagonist as he navigates complex relationships and thrilling adventures. Set against a backdrop of historical events, this volume reveals deeper insights into his character while intertwining humor and drama. The narrative explores themes of identity, loyalty, and the consequences of one's choices, culminating in a gripping conclusion that ties together the threads of his remarkable journey.
- 2020
The United Kingdom is a treasure-trove of military acquisitions - ranging from the bizarre to the priceless. In 'The Spoils of War' historian Christopher Joll unveils the remarkable, and often strange, stories of how and where many of them were procured.
- 2019
In the third installment of The Speedicut Memoirs, the narrative continues to blend adventure and intrigue as the protagonist navigates a world filled with espionage and unexpected alliances. The story unfolds against a backdrop of historical events, showcasing the complexities of loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for truth. Readers can expect rich character development and a plot that intertwines personal struggles with broader societal issues, making for a compelling continuation of the series.
- 2019
Continuing the saga of The Speedicut Memoirs, this installment delves deeper into the life of its charismatic protagonist, exploring his adventures and the challenges he faces. Set against a backdrop of intrigue and historical events, the narrative weaves in themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for identity. With a mix of humor and drama, the story captivates readers as it unfolds the complexities of relationships and the impact of past choices on the present.
- 2019
The fourth installment of The Speedicut Memoirs intertwines Charles Speedicut's life with notable historical figures, including the future King Edward VIII, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Simpson, and Adolf Hitler. As Speedicut navigates the complexities of his fortunes and misfortunes, the narrative explores themes of power, loyalty, and the impact of historical events on personal lives.
- 2018
The narrative explores General Gordon's motivations for staying in Khartoum amidst political turmoil and impending conflict. It delves into his sense of duty, personal convictions, and the complex dynamics of British imperialism during the late 19th century. Through historical context, the book examines the implications of his decision, the challenges he faced, and the broader impact of his actions on the region and British foreign policy. The story offers a gripping account of loyalty, bravery, and the consequences of leadership in crisis.
- 2018
The fourth installment features two intertwining storylines that explore the complexities of its characters' lives. As they navigate personal challenges and external conflicts, themes of resilience and transformation emerge. The narrative delves into their relationships, revealing deep emotional connections and the impact of past decisions. Readers can expect unexpected twists and a rich exploration of character development, making this book a compelling continuation of the series.