Candy Jar Books is proud to announce the final novel in its anniversary series of Lethbridge-Stewart books, The Laughing Gnome: On His Majesty’s National Service.

The book picks up where book five left off, and sees our heroes going back in time to the 1950s and the Korean War. As a young man Alistair Lethbridge-Stewart never wanted to follow in his illustrious family military history, he just wanted to be a math’s teacher. But then the Korean War broke out and he was called up for National Service. He soon met Spencer Pemberton – and his life was changed forever!

On His Majesty’s National Service is written by popular novelist David A McIntee, and Lynette Nusbacher. As well titles in such franchises as Doctor Who and Star Trek, McIntee previously wrote the second Lethbridge-Stewart novel, way back in 2015.

The cover is by artist Steve Beckett, the man behind the design and artwork of The Lucy Wilson Mysteries covers.

Range Editor Andy Frankham-Allen explains:

“We knew we wanted a Commando-style cover, and it took us a while to remember we had an artist who has done some work featuring military characters over the years. Although Steve is primarily known for his Beano work (as evidenced by the style of the Lucy Wilson covers), he can turn his hand to many different styles. As usual, I consulted the author, asked him what he wanted, and we then sent these suggestions to Steve.”

Steve Beckett says:

“I was thrilled to be invited to illustrate the cover for the Lethbridge-Stewart novel On His Majesty’s National Service. This allowed me to depart from my usual cartoony art style seen on the Lucy Wilson books and work in a style influenced by some of my childhood favourite comics, Battle picture weekly and Commando. I really enjoyed working on the piece which involved a little research into the Korean War and particularly the Hungarian army. I hope regular readers enjoy the explosive cover art and my rendition of a young moustache less Lethbridge-Stewart.”

About the cover, author David A McIntee says:

“I wanted both Lethbridge-Stewart and Hooper on the cover, as well as two Korean characters, with Lethbridge-Stewart and Hooper in Hungarian uniforms, just to further tease the audience and make them wonder why… And, I’m glad to say, the final result is pretty much exactly what I’d imagined. I’ve been lucky to have some great covers over the years, and this is easily right up there with them.”

NB: IF YOU HAVE A SUBSCRIPTION THE LAUGHING GNOME SERIES IS COVERED BY THIS. THIS BOOK IS ALSO INCLUDED IN THE LAUGHING GNOME SIX-BOOK BUNDLE.

The Laughing Gnome: On His Majesty’s National Service is available for pre-order now for £8.99 (+ p&p). The book is due for release soon.

To purchase visit: