An author near Petersfield is hoping his latest book will touch readers by uncovering a story from history.

Thomas Harding’s The Einstein Vendetta, is about Robert Einstein, cousin to the famous Albert Einstein. A previously untold story, delving into Italy under the Nazi regime and a family’s search for justice.

After a global launch at One Tree Books, Thomas will discuss his work in more detail at an event at Petersfield Waterstones on Thursday, April 24 at 7pm. His wife and fellow author Debora Harding, will lead the conversation.

Speaking to the Petersfield Post, Thomas said the start of his newest release began when a friend of his invited himself and Deborah to Florence.

He explained: “On the first weekend, we met the neighbours who invited us over for pasta and all that delicious food. They then told us about this incredible story that very close to where they live, were close relatives of Albert Einstein who were murdered by the Nazis during the war.

“I said, ‘there's no way’, and they said, 'it's true, and really tragic’. I started looking into it, and it was an incredible opportunity for me to get to know not just the local area, but the history of Italy and the history of the Italian Jewish community. To understand what it was like to live in the area during the German occupation.”

Thomas has previously written non-fiction books related to the Second World War, including Hanns and Rudolf, The House by the Lake, and more.

When asked what he wants readers to take away from the book, he said: “It is more about how do you deal with profound grief, people close to you experiencing trauma, bringing justice and how do you receive justice.

“These are really contemporary issues, so I think readers I’m hoping will find it of interest.”