Colonel Barker's Monstrous Regiment

Rose Collis

Rose Collis

Matthew Andrews

In an England devastated by the terrible losses of the First World War, Colonel Victor Barker was a rare man indeed. Dashing, well respected, with impeccable manners, he was a model gentleman. His wife was proud of his good breeding and fine looks, and his young son worshipped him as a war hero. But beneath the army uniform and bearing Barker hid an astounding secret. In April 1929, following a sensational trial at the Old Bailey, the good colonel was sentenced to nine months' imprisonment. For Colonel Barker was, in fact a woman. Her real name was Valerie Arkell-Smith, the most infamous 'man-woman' of them all.This book is currently being adapted for the stage.

Brighton based author Rose Collis (born in Wimbledon) began her career as a journalist. Her articles and reviews have appeared in over thirty publications, including: The Independent, Diva, Time Out and Gay Times. She is the author of several critically acclaimed books including: Brighton Boozers, Portraits to the Wall and A Trouser Wearing Character: The life and Times of Nancy Spain.