We are delighted to share that Edward Armston-Sheret (PhD Geography, 2021) has published The Grip of the Ice: Scott, Shackleton and Survival in the Frozen Frontier, a new history of Britain's first Antarctic expedition and the journey that launched the careers of two of the most famous explorers in polar history.

Timed to coincide with the 125th anniversary of the voyage, The Grip of the Ice tells the untold story of the Discovery expedition, where Robert Falcon Scott, Ernest Shackleton and their crew faced scurvy, starvation and the extreme challenges of the Antarctic wilderness while pushing further south than anyone had gone before.

Drawing on diaries, letters and archival materials, Edward explores the experiences of twelve expedition members, revealing a story that goes beyond exploration to examine science, survival, imperial ambition and the lasting influence of the expedition on British culture. The book also draws on research undertaken during his PhD studies at Royal Holloway, offering fresh insights into a formative moment in Antarctic history.

Described by The Telegraph as an "Antarctic odyssey" and a "rip-roaring account", the book has also been praised by The Independent as "stirring, suspenseful and panoramic".

Combining meticulous historical research with compelling storytelling, The Grip of the Ice sheds new light on an expedition that helped shape the future of Antarctic exploration and the legendary reputations of Scott and Shackleton. Find out more here.

Congratulations to Edward on the publication of The Grip of the Ice: Scott, Shackleton and Survival in the Frozen Frontier and on continuing to bring his research to new audiences through his writing.