AN author from Chard will hold a book launch party to present his first novel.

Gary Sweetland will talk about his debut novel Narcissus, which is the first in a trilogy featuring DCI Tate Randal.

Mr Sweetland, who grew up in Chard and moved back to the area eight years ago, said he will have a launch party on October 6 from 7pm at Eleos Café.

All 75 tickets have now been reserved.

Talking about his book, Mr Sweetland said: “When a stolen Caravaggio painting is rumoured to have resurfaced in London, DCI Tate Randall of the Arts and Antiquities Investigation Department is tasked with locating and recovering the artwork.

“When a number of potential buyers are found murdered and their corpses mysteriously posed, the case takes an expected turn and Tate must confront the skeletons of his past and recover the stolen artwork before the Narcissus claims another victim.”

The evening will include a book signing, both hardback and paperback for sale at a discounted price, author reading, the story behind the book, and Q&A session.

A jazz guitarist, Richard Llewellyn, will be providing some light entertainment.

A charity auction will be held in aid of the Alzheimer's Society.