Every once in a while, a new book comes out that provides a fresh perspective on fossil collecting.  Seren Books have published “In Search of Sea Dragons”, the first book to be written by amateur fossil hunter Matthew Myerscough.  It takes the reader on a deeply personal journey from a near-death experience to gaining a heightened appreciation of the natural world and all its wonders. A sense of personal fulfilment and achievement shaped by the discovery of a rewarding and exciting hobby. Along with the joy of sharing fossil hunting experiences with friends, family, and the wider fossil collecting community.

It is an engaging and uplifting read. Moreover, it provides a fresh perspective on fossil hunting in Britain. This well-crafted title will appeal to collectors, enthusiasts and general readers alike.

The front cover of Matthew’s first book “In Search of Sea Dragons”, published by Seren Books it documents the personal journey of the author from a near-death experience to discovery of a passion for fossil hunting. Picture credit: Seren Books.

Picture credit: Seren Books

“In Search of Sea Dragons”

At its heart, it is a deeply personal story. It takes the reader on a powerful journey from adversity to renewed well-being. Crucially, this transformation is driven by a passion for fossil hunting.  Not just any fossils but the remains of ancient marine reptiles, fossils that provide a rare glimpse into the lives of long extinct prehistoric animals.

The author explains how discovering a rewarding hobby changed his outlook. In addition, he highlights the importance of sharing experiences. Time spent fossil hunting with friends and family adds warmth to the narrative. Furthermore, connections with the wider fossil collecting community enrich the story.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“The book feels genuine and relatable.  Matthew writes with remarkable honesty and maturity.  His passion comes through on every page.  The author successfully blends storytelling with a love for the natural world and palaeontology.”

Exploring Britain’s Prehistoric “Sea Dragons”

The “sea dragons” are a reference to the plethora of strange and exotic marine reptiles that once swam in Mesozoic seas. These include ichthyosaurs, pliosaurs and plesiosaurs. The colour photographs, highlight the pleasures and perils of hunting these ancient sea creatures.  Photographs of some of Matthew’s remarkable discoveries are also included, as are helpful maps that pinpoint the routes taken and the places where special fossil finds occurred.

Some of the world’s most important marine reptile fossil finds have been found on the coastlines explored in this new book.  For example, the author has discovered new pliosaur fossil material helping to improve our understanding of Early Jurassic marine reptiles such as Rhomaleosaurus. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Importantly, the author links his experiences to famous fossil locations. The “Jurassic Coast” plays a leading role in the story. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its rich fossil deposits. However, the author concentrates on some of the less well known and difficult to access areas of our coast that can, very occasionally give up their treasures.

The science is explained in a straightforward manner. Therefore, even relative novices can follow the discussion. Each discovery is described with excitement and clarity.

Supporting Independent Voices in Publishing

This excellent debut is published by Seren Books. Based in Bridgend, South Wales, Seren has championed English-language writing from Wales for over forty years. Their catalogue spans poetry, fiction and non-fiction. Moreover, Seren Books has earned a formidable reputation. Many of their titles are shortlisted for major UK literary awards. Their mission goes beyond publishing. They aim to promote the work of Welsh writers and artists.

Importantly, they bring Welsh literature and voices to a wider audience. Everything Dinosaur recognises the value of this work. Supporting independent publishers helps ensure diverse and meaningful stories are shared.

A Rewarding Read for Fossil Enthusiasts

Matthew’s first book is an impressive and heartfelt debut. It successfully blends personal storytelling with a fascination for the Earth sciences. In addition, it celebrates the joy and wonder of discovery. The pacing of the writing is steady and engaging.  We suspect Matthew might be tempted to chronicle his future fossil hunting adventures.

Whether you are new to fossil collecting or highly experienced, this book offers something valuable. It inspires curiosity and encourages exploration of the natural world. Above all, it highlights the positive impact that a shared passion can have.

There might be dragons! A visit to the North Yorkshire coast on a fossil collecting expedition. Time and tide churn the beach and occasionally remarkable fossil reptiles are revealed in the rocks. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

In conclusion, in search of sea dragons is a highly recommended read. It deserves a place on the bookshelf of any fossil enthusiast.

Book Details – “In Search of Dragons”

Title: “In Search of Sea Dragons”
Author: Matthew Myerscough
Publisher: Seren Books
Publication Date: March 2026
Format: Paperback
Pages: 194
ISBN: 9781781727966

List Price: £12.99 GBP

This remarkable book can be ordered at the publisher’s website: Seren Books.

Search for the title or for the author – Matthew Myerscough.

A new book dedicated to British Cenozoic fossils will be available later this month. Entitled “A Field Guide to Collecting British Cenozoic Fossils”, it launches exclusively on Amazon from 14th February (2026). This colourful and informative guide is expected to attract fossil collectors and natural history enthusiasts alike.

This engaging and informative 190-page book is printed in full colour throughout. Moreover, it features stunning location photography and hundreds of fossil images. These clear photographs help readers identify potential discoveries. As a result, the book provides a practical resource for both beginners and experienced collectors.

The front cover of the book “A Field Guide to Collecting British Cenozoic Fossils”. Picture credit: Steve Snowball and Alister Cruickshanks.

Picture credit: Steve Snowball and Alister Cruickshanks

Exploring British Cenozoic Fossils in Detail

The guide focuses on the best fossil hunting locations across southern and eastern England. Importantly, each site is described clearly and accurately. In addition, the book includes up-to-date geological charts and detailed diagrams. Readers will also find site information and simple directions to fossil-bearing strata.

The book has been co-authored by fossil expert Steve Snowball and Alister Cruickshanks. Two well-known and highly respected individuals within the fossil hunting and fossil preparation industry. I am keen to read more about the extensive fossil collecting opportunities on the coast of East Anglia. For example, the book contains a comprehensive inventory of the invertebrate fossils associated with the Coralline Crag Formation of Suffolk.

A selection of typical fossils associated with the famous Coralline Crag Formation of Suffolk (eastern England). Picture credit: Steve Snowball and Alister Cruickshanks.

Picture credit: Steve Snowball and Alister Cruickshanks

Digging into Doggerland

Furthermore, the book benefits from contributions by renowned palaeontologist Dick Mol. Often nicknamed “Sir Mammoth”, Dick Mol has received a knighthood from Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands. He earned this honour following forty years of research into mammoths and Pleistocene animals. In particular, he shares his expertise on Doggerland, the prehistoric landmass now beneath the North Sea.

An article from 2022 examining the research of Dick Mol and colleagues exploring the ancient Doggerland landscape: Searching for Settlements Under the Sea.

Everything Dinosaur has reviewed several books by Steve Snowball previously. His publications consistently provide accurate information and clear guidance for fossil collectors. Therefore, this latest release continues his reputation for producing reliable field guides.

For instance, in 2025, Steve in collaboration with Heather Middleton, produced an excellent guide to the fossils associated with the beautiful Fleet Lagoon of Dorset: A Fleet Lagoon Fossil Hunting Guide.

Stunning Artwork Brings Prehistoric Britain to Life

The book features detailed illustrations created by Andreas Kurpisz. These illustrations recreate ancient environments based on the fossil record. For example, one dramatic scene in the book shows a temperate Early Pleistocene landscape in Norfolk.

Early Pleistocene in Norfolk. A dead southern mammoth, Mammuthus meridionalis, is being scavenged by a European sabre cat, Homotherium crenatidens. A pack of giant short-faced hyaenas, Pachycrocruta brevirostris, challenges the claim to the prize, overlooked by an Etruscan rhinoceros, Stephanorhinus hundsheimensis. Picture credit: Andreas Kurpisz.

Picture credit: Andreas Kurpisz

Another illustration depicts a herd of Mammuthus primigenius. These woolly mammoths interrupt a cave lion’s ambush attempt. The intended prey is a majestic giant Irish elk, Megaloceros giganteus. Consequently, these scenes help readers visualise the animals linked to British Cenozoic fossils.

An Author with an Outstanding Reputation

This new book will prove to be a valuable resource for fossil collectors. It builds on an impressive list of previous publications from the author.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“Steve Snowball has built an outstanding reputation through his extensive experience and deep knowledge of British fossil sites. We are delighted to welcome this informative and beautifully illustrated guide. It will inspire collectors and help many people explore British Cenozoic fossils with confidence.”

Unfortunate timing! A herd of Woolly Mammoths (M. primigenius) impedes the attack of a cave lion (Panthera spelaean), on a Megaloceros. In the chaos, the deer makes its escape. Picture credit: Andreas Kurpisz.

Picture credit: Andreas Kurpisz

“A Field Guide to Collecting British Cenozoic Fossils” is priced at £21.99. The book offers practical advice, scientific accuracy, and engaging visuals. Additionally, its clear layout makes it easy to use when out fossil hunting.

For anyone interested in British Cenozoic Fossils, this new guide represents a valuable addition to their fossil hunting library.  Find it on Amazon.

The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs by Dr Dean Lomax, with illustrations by Bob Nicholls, offers a fascinating look at prehistoric animal behaviour as reflected in the fossil record. Moreover, this engaging book is written for the general reader as well as students, researchers and academics.  It has been highly praised.  For example, Slash the guitarist with American rock band Guns N’ Roses endorses it.

Slash is reported to have stated that this recently published book was “fantastic, engrossing and funny.”

The front cover of the recently published book “The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs – Unearthing the Real Behaviors of Prehistoric Animals” written by Dr Dean Lomax and illustrated by Bob Nicholls. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

“The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs”

Throughout the book, Dr Lomax explains complex palaeontology with clarity. As a result, the writing feels both authoritative and welcoming. Short chapters keep the pace brisk. Moreover, each fossil discovery tells a clear story grounded in scientific evidence. Predator–prey encounters sit alongside moments of parenting and survival. Consequently, these ancient creatures feel vivid and real.

“The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs” is the second collaboration on this theme between the highly respected British palaeontologist and award-winning palaeoartist Bob Nicholls.  Their earlier book, also published by Columbia University Press “Locked in Time” was a huge success.

To read our review of “Locked in Time”: Unlocking the Lives of Extinct Animals.

The “Secret Lives of Dinosaurs” is the second collaboration between Dr Dean Lomax and Bob Nicholls examining remarkable fossils. The first book to be published was the highly successful “Locked in Time”. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Stunning Illustrations

It is packed full of interesting facts and insights.  This book will delight readers.  The beautiful illustrations play a vital role in bringing prehistoric animals to life.  The visuals support the science and along with the engaging text “The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs” is a joy. It suits enthusiasts and general readers alike.

One of the stunning, colour images created by the highly respected British palaeoartist Bob Nicholls. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

The picture (above) shows one of the illustrations contained within the book.  To learn what inspired this amazing illustration, purchase it.

The website of the publisher: Columbia University Press. Find the book by searching for “Dean Lomax”.

Overall, it is informative, engaging, and highly recommended.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“Sue and I have had the pleasure of working with both Dean and Bob.  We commend their dedication and devotion.  This is an excellent book, and they bring ancient, long extinct animals to live with stunning illustrations and engaging commentary.”

As November draws to a close, interest in Dr Dean Lomax’s new book, “The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs”, continues to surge. It is a top selling book as we approach the festive season. Author Dr Dean Lomax has once again penned a beautiful book that highlights the fascinating stories preserved in the fossil record.

This captivating title has already sparked curiosity worldwide by revealing intimate snapshots of prehistoric life. Through extraordinary fossils, Dean uncovers the real behaviours of ancient animals, from tender acts of parenting to dramatic confrontations between predators and prey. With Bob Nicholls’ vivid reconstructions enhancing every account, the book offers a rare and enthralling journey into deep time.

A book tour is taking place, including a very special event next Wednesday in Florida.

Dr Dean Lomax will be speaking about his new book and his adventures in palaeontology on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 (7pm) at The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center / 1051 Main Street / The Villages, Florida, USA. Picture credit: Dr Dean Lomax.

Picture credit: Dr Dean Lomax

Author Dr Dean Lomax Speaking in Florida

For our American friends, there is an opportunity to experience these remarkable fossil tales live. On Wednesday, 3 December 2025, Dean will appear at The Sharon L. Morse Performing Arts Center in The Villages, Florida, for a special evening celebrating the secret lives of dinosaurs. This exclusive event is not to be missed. Dean will be joined by his close friends and special guests—Elaine Howard, an attorney turned dinosaur hunter, and renowned science educator Jimmy Waldron. Together, they will guide the audience through incredible stories of discovery, excavation, and adventure.

Palaeontologist Dr Dean Lomax in front of two iconic dinosaur exhibits. Picture credit: Dr Dean Lomax.

Picture credit: Dr Dean Lomax

During the talk, Dean shares highlights of his remarkable career, including unearthing prehistoric creatures, identifying new species, and presenting popular science television programmes.  Sue and I at Everything Dinosaur have had the privilege of hearing Dr Lomax speak on several occasions.  He has a remarkable gift for science communication.  Afterwards, attendees can take part in a question-and-answer session before meeting Dean and the guests at a book signing and photo session.

With the date fast approaching, this is your last call to secure tickets.  Further details can be found here: Dr Dean Lomax Speaking in Florida.

If you want to dive deeper into “The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs” and hear extraordinary stories directly from the experts, this unforgettable evening in Florida next Wednesday is not to be missed.

A Wonderful Science Communicator

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“Dean’s new book illustrated by the extremely talented Bob Nicholls is wonderful.  Aimed at the general reader it shines a spotlight on the remarkable lives of prehistoric animals as revealed by astonishing fossil discoveries.  It is an ideal gift for the festive season.”

“The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs” is published by Columbia University Press and it can be purchased here: The Columbia University Press Website.

Search for author Dr Dean Lomax.

For full details and ticket information about the Florida event, visit Dean’s events page.

Looking forward to reading “The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs”.  This book explores the real behaviours of prehistoric animals as revealed in remarkable fossils.  Written by Dr Dean Lomax and with beautiful illustrations by palaeo-reconstruction artist Bob Nicholls, it tells the real-world stories of creatures that lived in the past.  The book has been endorsed by Slash of Guns N’ Roses fame.

The front cover of “The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs” by Dr Dean Lomax which is beautifully illustrated by palaeo-reconstruction artist Bob Nicholls. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

“The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs”

The book is published by Columbia University Press and is a follow-up to the hugely successful “Locked in Time” that was published a couple of years ago.  After a short prologue, our accomplished author takes us on an exploration of the lives of prehistoric animals covering subjects like diets, finding food, eggs, babies and reproduction.  Despite the title, there is a veritable smorgasbord of prehistoric animals featured.

Various aspects of behaviour are revealed using remarkable fossils and exquisite illustrations.

A female ammonite deposits her fertilised eggs whilst her mate, the much smaller male, strokes her shell. The opposite page shows examples of ammonite egg sacs and other fossil evidence. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Visit the publisher’s website and search for author Dean Lomax to order: Columbia University Press Website.

Dinosaur Dung and Digestion

For Dean and illustrator Bob Nicholls it has been a busy time.  For example, both have pursued numerous projects including collaborating with Everything Dinosaur with the development of the Everything Dinosaur Evolution 1:33 scale Tyrannosaurus rex figure.  The display base features a tyrannosaur coprolite and in “The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs” the fossil evidence, a whopping forty-four centimetres in length is discussed in detail.

Mike from Everything Dinosaur commented:

“Occasionally, two projects overlap.  We wanted to include a tyrannosaur coprolite on our model’s display base, and Bob and Dean wanted to feature the remarkable fossil evidence in their highly informative chapter on digestion.”

The Everything Dinosaur Evolution T. rex display base. There is a metal rod to help secure the model to the base. In addition, the base, which represents a dried-up lake contains two tyrannosaur tracks and a pile of dinosaur dung. Both the tracks and dung are based on real fossils. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

To view the Everything Dinosaur Evolution range: Everything Dinosaur Evolution Models.

Distinctive Fossils Provide Remarkable Insights

“The Secret Lives of Dinosaurs” outlines the amazing tales of the lives of prehistoric animals through some of the most remarkable fossil specimens ever found.  These specimens, provide a glimpse into the lives and behaviours of long extinct animals. Author Dean Lomax provides a breathtaking glimpse through a window in deep time, and his engaging writing style and wit keeps the reader entertained and informed.  Dr Lomax’s passion for palaeontology comes across on every page.  The stunning artwork contributed by Bob Nicholls makes this new book a double delight and a worthy sequel to the award-winning “Locked in Time”.

Allosaurus pathology in the famous “Big Al” specimen and a battle-hardened Dilophosaurus feature in the chapter on health and mortality. Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur.

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

This is a wonderful book.  Aimed at students, dinosaur fans and the general reader, it is highly recommended.

Sue and I were delighted to receive a unique and thoughtful gift from the talented illustrator Cordula Marks Venters. Cordula is an Edinburgh-based artist with a passion for prehistoric animals. Her work blends the worlds of science, history, and myth. Drawing inspiration from dinosaurs, medieval events, historical figures, and ancient legends, her art is original and imaginative.

The gift was a copy of her book “Illuminated Beasts and Other Oddities”.  It showcases her clever illustrations.  Many of them feature prehistoric animals.  Cordula is a customer of Everything Dinosaur.  She recently purchased a CollectA Gallimimus model and nicknamed her theropod “Gustav”.

The front cover of “Illuminated Beasts and Other Oddities” Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Picture credit: Everything Dinosaur

Cordula Marks Venters and the 100 Days Project Scotland

The book was inspired by last year’s 100 Days Project Scotland.  The challenge is to undertake a creative task each day and record it.

The artist commented:

“I was inspired by medieval bestiaries and decided to create my own, featuring a mashup of historical, mythological and prehistorical creatures/events over the course of 100 days”.

Over the course of a hundred days, Cordula created her own bestiary. It features a brilliant mix of mythological creatures, prehistoric animals, science fiction and historical events. Each drawing reveals her love of art and her enduring creative spirit.

Dinosaurs often feature in her artwork.  Her playful, yet informed, interpretations of prehistoric creatures are outstanding.  For example, there is much to admire in Cordula’s red-clawed, fishing baryonychid.

Gone fishing with an old friend – an Early Cretaceous baryonychid theropod dinosaur. Picture credit: Cordula Marks Venters

Picture credit: Cordula Marks Venters

Lots of Different Prehistoric Animals

The colourful illustrations feature a diverse range of prehistoric animals.  Even a large dicynodont gets a look in.  We suspect this is the first time that this synapsid has been illustrated alongside a group of gnomes.

We want to say a huge thank you to Cordula Marks Venters. Your generosity, creativity, and support mean so much to us here at Everything Dinosaur.

After a hard day’s work gnomes head for home aided by a dicynodont. Picture credit: Cordula Marks Venters

Picture credit: Cordula Marks Venters

We can’t wait to see what you create next.

To discover more of Cordula’s work, be sure to visit her website: The Artwork of Cordula Marks Venters.

About the Author

Mike is part of the team at Everything Dinosaur. With a background in teaching and science communication. He has shared his fascination with prehistoric animals, fossils, palaeontology and dinosaurs on this blog since 2005. He and Sue are prehistoric animal model collectors too.

Visit: Everything Dinosaur for dinosaur toys and prehistoric animal figures.