The Art of Food

‘I’m going to try a different approach with this,’ he said. ‘We call them fantasy shots?’

In response to my request for foodie extracts, Susan Willis presented me with something that wasn’t quite what it seemed.  I marvelled at the glorious pictures of food, but there wasn’t any recipe or cooking.  Feast your eyes on the extract from The Girl in the Dark.  Find out what is simmering in the kitchen.

Extract

Kim arranged six of the Chantenay carrots.

When Kim carried coffee into the room they all busied themselves preparing for the shoot. Thankfully, her mind was occupied with preparing the carrots and green beans to look as appealing as possible, rather than staring at Alex. He looked even more attractive prowling around the room with the big camera in his hand. Editorial still shots of the vegetables were first taken on a plain black background. Kim arranged six of the Chantenay carrots with their green tops uppermost into an attractive pile all facing in the same direction. She looked at Alex, who smiled and asked her to slice one lengthways and balance it on top of the pile.

‘We need to make it look sweet and tender,’ he muttered. ‘I’m loving the bright orange colour on the black background, and I’m thinking of whizzing them around with water droplets.’

Kim blanched the green beans to help to keep the green colour bright

Kim agreed and began to pile the green beans with their trimmed ends uppermost in an attractive pile on a wood board. She smiled at Alex, as if to say she was on the same wavelength, in fact, one step ahead. Kim blanched the green beans to help to keep the green colour bright and they worked out a design scattering the cut ends on a white cloth. By the time Alex had finished cropping and working his magic on the computer, they looked amazing.

He stood beside Kim chatting while she trimmed the cauliflower for the overhead shot. ‘I’m going to try a different approach with this,’ he said. ‘We call them fantasy shots?’

Kim could feel his hot breath on the back of her neck and her knees trembled – she was having fantasies of her own, but they didn’t include cauliflowers!

About the Novel

The Girl in the Dark

The Girl in the Dark is the latest Grip Lit novel from Susan Willis. A thrilling romantic suspense story that will keep you turning pages long into the night.

When Kim goes to old friend, Sidney’s, photography studio to start a new food styling contract she meets his new assistant, Alex. Kim is catapulted from her mournful existence into an explosive romantic relationship with Alex. Sidney, however, is wary. He thinks, there’s something not quite right about Alex, and urges caution.

Will Kim look back and wish she’d listened…

Susan Willis

Susan Willis is a published author of three novels, and five novellas’. She lives in the North East of England surrounded by family and friends. Following publication of a love story about a chef and her boyfriend, she wrote more foodie-based love stories and wove them into her first novel, ‘Yes Chef, No Chef’.

Now Susan has ventured into romantic suspense with her latest novel, The Girl In The Dark.

Set in her home town of Durham City, this storyline is not a who done it thriller, but, a psychological page-turner which she loved writing. We can only hope the heroine hasn’t put her trust in the wrong man?

Best of luck to Susan with this novel.

I had never really considered the role of a food stylist until I read this extract.  When I take photographs of food for tweets and posts, I tend to photograph exactly what I have cooked.  Food is all about the taste for me.  However, recipe books are probably bursting with these creations.  

Have you ever followed a recipe from a cookbook and realised your creation looks nothing like the photograph?

 

Please see all my extracts and excerpts at Book Extracts and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

 

Norwegian Summer Island with Natalie Normann

Meet Natalie in one of her favourite coffee shops.

I met the ancestor of a Viking and she is very friendly.  Alas, she didn’t arrive in Cardiff in a longboat, but she did have stories to tell me about her beautiful Norway.  It is my pleasure to introduce you to Natalie Normann, a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association (RNA), who resided in the South Wales and attended the local writers’ group.  Natalie will release Summer Island in September and it is set in Norway.  I always love travelling to other countries via books and wanted to discover more.

Jessie:  Natalie, I’m sad you have returned to Norway and won’t be in the local RNA meetings.  It’s nice to have some time to chat.  Tell me, have you missed Norway and what did you love the most about Wales?

Natalie: I fell in love with Wales and Cardiff the first time we were here which was two years before we moved. There’s so much fascinating history – even Norwegian history! I’ve already used some of what I learned, in my current historical romance series, by moving the characters to Cardiff in 1919. I had great fun with that. Also, I was surprised and pleased at how friendly people are in Wales. I’ve made great friends and I hope to get back. Next time I’ll either drive myself or hire a driver so we can explore more of Wales.

Jessie:  I’m so impressed you have secured a publishing deal with One More Chapter. What is Summer Island about?

Natalie: Summer Island is about taking the time to find out what makes you happy in life.

Summer Island is about taking the time to find out what makes you happy in life.

Ninni is recovering from a bad break-up and the island is her favourite place in the world. It’s where she goes when she needs to take a break.

Jack is a chef at a posh restaurant in London. He finds out  that his biological father has left him a farm on a Norwegian island. At first he thinks it has to be an internet scam, he’s never met his father, but when he quits his job over an argument with his boss, he decides to go and see what this is all about.

Jessie:  What inspired you to write this book?

Natalie: I have a thing for islands. I love them. Norway is always praised for the fantastic mountains and the gorgeous fjords, but we are actually one of the countries in Europe with most islands. People have lived on them for generations and it’s a way of life.  I wanted to see if I could capture some of what makes summers in Norway special and the island is perfect for that.

Harbour view at Utsira island, outside Haugesund. ‘I wanted to see if I could capture some of what makes summers in Norway special and the island is perfect for that.’

Jessie:  Give us an insight into the setting and why you think we should all visit Summer Island?

Natalie: Summer Island is the kind of place you wish you  could go to when your heart is broken. A place to heal, even. Everything is so busy these days and on an island things slow down. You have time to think and just be. Right now, when we all have to isolate and we are more or less in lockdown everywhere, an island seems like the place you want to be. I wouldn’t mind, myself.

Present a 35 word extract from your novel that will tempt a reader.

‘And here I was thinking Norwegians were so hospitable,’ Jack said, clearly enjoying himself. He made no sign of leaving.

‘You’ve read the wrong guidebook, I’m afraid.’ Ninni pulled the computer closer to her.

Jessie: Which characters would you like me to meet the most on Summer Island and why?

Natalie: That’s a tough question. I’m fond of all of them. Maybe Alma. She’s the heart of the island, the one who keeps everything together. She grew up in a time when the men; the fathers, husbands and sons, went away at sea for months at the time, even years, and women stayed home to take care of the homestead and the family, handle the finances and whatever challenges they had to face.  Alma is tough and kind, she doesn’t put up with anything, and shows her love by feeding people she cares about. I like her.

Traditional pier and buildings at Utsira.

Jessie: Did any of your characters misbehave when you were writing the book?

Natalie: Not misbehaving, but some of them certainly surprised me. I didn’t have them all ready before I started to write, so some characters was unexpected. Like the hippies, for example. They just showed up one day while I was writing something else.

Jessie: Who would you like to read your book and why?  This could be another author, someone famous, a friend or a member of your family.  

Natalie: Family and friends have mostly read it already,. I would love if it Milly Johnson read it. I picked up her book «The perfectly imperfect woman», to read on the train to my very first Romance Novelist Association conference. This was my first Milly Johnson book and I decided to read it because there was a Norwegian in it. I loved it, and when I met her in the lunch line at the conference we chatted, I asked her to sign my copy, and she was funny and friendly. Made me less nervous about the whole conference. And also, I know she loves Norway.

Jessie: Why should I keep your book in my handbag?

Natalie: I think if you want a break from the stress and worries, it can give you that. I hope so.

Jessie: What is the last sentence written in your writer’s notebook?

Natalie: I have several of those, usually one for each project. On the most recent it says: research Foundation doctors.

Jessie: What is the biggest challenge for an author?

Natalie: To finish that first draft, so that you have the confidence of having a whole story. Then what you need is perseverance. Stick with the writing. And when I say that, I mean finish the manuscript, do the revisions, the editing, the submissions and even when it seems there’s nothing happening, keep going. There are some writers who write a book, gets it published and becomes an overnight success. For most writers, it’s a long game. And the only way to be writer and to be a better writer, is to write.

Jessie: What is the best advice that you have received as a writer?

Natalie: My first editor told me this. She bought my first short story and wanted me to polish it, rewrite, actually. She told me that what I feel when I write is what the reader will feel when they read it. I try to remember that, so that if I’m bored when I write, I know readers will be too. It also helps when I really don’t want to ‘kill my darlings’, but I know I have to.

Natalie used to be a translator of fiction and non-fiction. She studied literature and history at Uni, and used to read romance novels in the hallways. It was frowned upon by her professors and the other students, of course. She loves to travel and she has lived in Spain, England and Wales – and hope to go back soon. I really do hope she can return to Wales very soon as the Cardiff group of writers ( Cariad Chapete) miss her and her lovely sense of humour.  I can’t wait for the release of her novel Summer Island and have already preordered it. 

Your contact details and book links

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NatalieNormannAuthor
Twitter: @NatalieNormann1
Instagram: natalienormann
Pinterest: https://no.pinterest.com/natalienormann3

 

Please see all my author interviews at My Guests and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

A copy of my novel is available here.

Meet the Judges of the 2020 Joan Hessayon Award

‘I’m looking for a book that’s a satisfying and uplifting read.’ Rhoda Baxter
‘I’ll be looking to be swept away by gorgeous writing and a plot that pulls me back to the book…’ Thorne Ryan

The Romantic Novelists’ Association (RNA) has announced the 2020 line-up for its prestigious Joan Hessayon Award for graduates of the New Writers’ Scheme. I am delighted to celebrate the wonderful contenders for the award and introduce the judges. Rhoda Baxter is an author of contemporary romance and Thorne Ryan is Commissioning Editor for Hodder and Stoughton. I am honoured the judges chatted with me about what they will be looking for in a winner.

RNA Joan Hessayon Award

Jessie: Rhoda, it is lovely to welcome you to my blog again. Please introduce yourself to the readers.

Rhoda: I write romantic comedies about people who make me laugh. I also write multicultural women’s fiction under the name Jeevani Charika. My books have been shortlisted for various awards.  I am currently the chair of the Authors North events committee of the Society of Authors.

Jessie: How has the RNA supported your writing career?

Rhoda: I joined the RNA back in the day when you still had to send submissions out in the post. When I first joined, I was completely star struck and intimidated. Everyone was so helpful and kind I soon relaxed. I went through the NWS scheme and was a Joan Hessayon contender myself, many years ago. With the first contract, I became a member of the Society of Authors and went on take a voluntary role there. When I was offered the chance to be a judge and help strengthen the ties between the RNA and the Society of Authors (where I’m the chair of Authors North committee), I couldn’t say no.

Zoe Allison, Ruth Kvarnström-Jones, Sharon Ibbotson, Stefania Hartley, Nina Kaye and Rosemary Goodacre

Jessie: What is the Joan Hessayon Award? 

Rhoda: The Joan Hessayon Award recognises those authors whose debut novels have been accepted for publication after passing through the Romantic Novelists’ Association New Writers’ Scheme. Each year 300 places are offered to unpublished writers in the romantic fiction genre. As part of the scheme, they can submit a complete manuscript for critique by one of the Association’s published authors as well as attend RNA events which offer opportunities to meet and network with publishers, agents and other published authors. The Joan Hessayon Award is generously sponsored by gardening expert Dr. David Hessayon OBE, in honour of his late wife, Joan, who was a longstanding member of the RNA and a great supporter of its New Writers’ Scheme.

Jessie: What do you like best about the RNA?

Rhoda: I should say something erudite here, but all I can think of is that I love the social aspect of it. I found my tribe in the RNA. The parties are invariably great fun. It’s such a relief to talk to people who don’t think it’s weird to have imaginary people running around in your head. It’s also nice to be among people who give the romance genre the respect it deserves.

Laura Bambrey, Kirsten Hesketh, Kathleen Whyman, Maggie Richell-Davies, Lynn Johnson and Lucy Keeling

Jessie: What will you be looking for in a winner?

Rhoda: I’m looking for a book that’s a satisfying and uplifting read. I love to see great dialogue and characters that feel so real that I think about them long after I’ve closed the bool. I have to say, the standard of entries is very high and the books I’ve read so far have all been really good. It’s going to be hard to choose the winner.

Jessie: Thorne, welcome to Books in Handbag Blog. Can you tell me something about yourself.
Thorne: I started my career in the Contracts department at Hachette UK in 2015 before moving over to Editorial, which I immediately knew was where I was meant to be. I am now Commissioning Editor, Women’s Fiction at Hodder & Stoughton. I like books that give me ‘all the feels’, and have a particular fondness for ones that make me cry.

Melissa Oliver, Mairibeth MacMillan, Jacqueline Rohen, Jan Baynham, Emma Jackson and Fiona Woodifield

Jessie: Why do publishers value the RNA and the Joan Hessayon Award?

Thorne: Organisations like the RNA and prizes like the Joan Hessayon Award are vital to publishers and authors alike. As Milly Johnson said in her wonderful speech at the RNA awards evening earlier this year, romantic novels are often viewed in general society as somehow less important or less worthy than other types of fiction, which is so frustrating for those who love it and see it for what it really is: great stories told really well by very talented people. The RNA is a haven from that narrow-mindedness, providing authors and readers of romantic fiction with a place where the thing they love is truly celebrated. It also provides invaluable practical support to its members. With regards to prizes such as the Joan Hessayon Award, they give authors the recognition they so thoroughly deserve – and of course that’s great for both authors and publishers alike, because if a book wins a prize then we can shout about it from the rooftops and hopefully bring more readers to that book and the genre in general. Overall, the RNA provides authors and publishers with an invaluable community, and prizes such as the Joan Hessayon award provide moments to celebrate what is bringing everyone in that community together.

Jessie: What will you be looking for in a winner?

Well, I was going to say, ‘Just a really good book!’ but all of them will of course be brilliant if they’ve made it to the shortlist! I tend to look at various components individually (plot, characters, writing etc.) and give them a mark out of ten, then add them up for an overall score. Even if you feel like you loved all the entries and couldn’t choose between them, it’s surprising how quickly this method can break through that and show you your true favourite. But in general, I’ll be looking to be swept away by gorgeous writing and a plot that pulls me back to the book whenever I have to put it down. Basically, anything that’s going to make me go all tingly!

Annette Hannah, Stephanie Harte and Victoria Garland

This year’s debuts show the wide range of stories encompassed by the romance genre.

The full list of contenders for 2020 is:
Zoe Allison, Impervious, Totally Bound
Jan Baynham, Her Mother’s Secret, Ruby Fiction
Laura Bambrey, The Beginner’s Guide to Loneliness, Simon & Schuster
Victoria Garland, Finding Prince Charming, DC Thompson
Rosemary Goodacre, Until We Meet Again, Hera
Annette Hannah, Wedding Bells at the Signal Box Cafe, Orion Dash
Stephanie Harte, Risking It All, Aria
Stefania Hartley, Sun, Stars and Limoncello, Totally Bound
Kirsten Hesketh, Another Us, Canelo
Sharon Ibbotson, The Marked Lord, Choc Lit
Emma Jackson, A Mistletoe Miracle, Orion Dash
Lynn Johnson, The Girl from the Workhouse, Hera
Nina Kaye, The Gin Lover’s Guide to Dating, Orion Dash
Lucy Keeling, Make it up to you, Choc Lit
Ruth Kvarnström-Jones, Halleholm – Lovisas Choice, Printz Publishing
Mairibeth MacMillan, The Viking’s Cursed Bride, Tirgearr
Melissa Oliver, The Rebel Heiress and the Knight, Mills and Boon Historical
Maggie Richell-Davies, The Servant, Sharpe Books
Jacqueline Rohen, How to Marry Your Husband, Arrow
Kathleen Whyman, Wife Support System, Hera
Fiona Woodifield, The Jane Austen Dating Agency, Bloodhound Books

If you click on the contenders, you will discover more about the books and the authors. All of the contenders have placed their books in the Handbag Gallery. The Award will be announced on 5th September 2020 in an online presentation.

 

Please see all my author interviews at My Guests and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

A copy of my novel is available here.

A tale of two continents

The Giants Look Down

 

Sonja Price

 

 

 

This gripping tale explores cultural differences, in two continents, through the life of Jaya and her brother.  An intelligent study of how one’s understanding of freedom is relative to education, experience and culture: a very poignant, contemporary message!

Jaya was born in a place where ‘the tiny mauve and yellow flowers danced in the breeze as the snowy summits of Pin Panjal meditated in the morning sun.’  Despite the beauty and implied freedom and romance of the landscape, the women are inhibited by their culture and the ugly politics of war torn Kashmir.  Jaya’s gentle, intelligent observations give an insight into her world as a Kashmiri girl.  Her mother asserts ‘you’re a girl’ and believes that ‘love rides on reason, not romance.’  It is clear Jaya is destined to search beyond this and it is impossible not to admire her questioning.

Jaya wishes on a ‘shooting star’ and the author maps out Jaya’s destiny beautifully.  The novel explores how the independent, free spirited mind can find flight if given the right opportunities.  But the opportunities must be accompanied with an inquiring mind. Jaya’s entrapment in Delhi is as stifling as the intense heat which ‘pressed down on city life like a giant hand.’ Her value, as a potential bride, diminishes once her parents have been killed.  She will find a way to escape a doomed arranged marriage – she is born to fight.

In contrast, Tahir, Jaya’s brother is forced to survive in a world of violence.  Here, Price examines how the innocent, accepting mind can become involved in terrorism.  Tahir’s life is written in the third person as he never finds his own voice.  Jaya’s story is written in the first person so that you can recognise her strength and identity.  She wants to be a wife ‘but (she) wasn’t going to give up everything.’  Ironically, the masculine stereotype and expectations shackle Tahir to a life of unfulfillment. Sadly, a lack of ambition and opportunity forces Tahir to accept his comrades as family.

Like her father, Jaya leaves ‘The Giants’ behind and moves to Scotland.  The cool Scottish breeze brings a fresh new perspective to Jaya’s life.  ‘The ocean! A slate grey stretching out to the horizon’ is symbolic of Jaya’s freedom and endless possibilities.  Meanwhile, her brother remains in Kashmir, and Tahir, believes the British to be the destructive force in his country.  He asks a British man, ‘Have you thought about the devastation your empire has left behind?’  He is unable to see how different cultures can collaborate and learn from each other. Tahir fights for his confused perception of freedom while his sister, Jaya, fights to save lives.  Jaya and Tahir’s father was a doctor. Jaya’s father involved her in his mission of caring for everyone, regardless of religion or race.

Jaya learns to inhabit the space between two cultures and finds her identity.  Her love for Alistair gives her stability, purpose and strength. Tahir is tormented by:

‘The poverty, the beauty, the peace and the violence.  Such extremes separated by the blink of an eyelid.

Tahir never examines his own world as he is too caught up in the conflict and grudges.   The natural ebb and flow of the Jaya’s narrative is enchanting while we never get inside of Tahir’s confused, inhibited mind.  The tale of two continents explores cultural difference: it is a wonderful book of contrasts.  For instance, the peaceful setting Kashmir Valley translates ‘paradise on earth’ yet it conceals conflict.  Jaya questions: ‘How could the landscape be beautiful when Alistair was suffering?’ Like Jaya, one must look beneath the surface.

This novel teaches us to have a respect and understanding of other cultures but we need the freedom to ask questions and pursue our ambition: above all, everyone needs to be loved. ‘Azadi’ (freedom) is a state of mind influenced by opportunities, the people we meet and the strength to ask pertinent questions.

A sensitive, well-crafted narrative that explores challenging themes through a beautiful central character. I recommend this novel wholeheartedly!

 

Please see all my reviews at Books In Handbag and my blog at jessiecahalin.com.

 

 A novel for Kate Middleton’s handbag

Emily Williams

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Emily came to visit the Chat Room on a rainy day in Wales. She was wearing a floaty, floral dress and a raincoat.  I noted that her bag was an overflowing brown, leather Fiorelli bag. Despite the rain, Emily was very cheerful and happy to talk about her book. Whilst bouncing her little baby daughter, Florence, on her knee Emily was also keeping one eye on her son, Elliot. The mischievous toddler was heading towards a pile of books, with a pen in his hand and a glint in his eye. After refocusing the children onto their colouring activities, and trying to stop Elliot drawing on his little sister, we settled down for a chat.

We drank tea and ate Welsh cakes, as we discussed Emily’s debut novel, Letters to Eloise.

Jessie:  Why did you decide to present the novel in a series of letters?

Emily: As a child, I always wrote letters as I loved to receive replies. We moved around a lot as children so I kept touch with friends and family by writing letters, ever hopeful of that reply. There is nothing more special than receiving a hand-written letter. My late grandmother loved writing letters to me and even in her nineties she would send them. It seemed the perfect way for Flora to write to her unborn child.

Jessie: Capture the essence of your book in a couple of sentences.

Emily: Letters to Eloise is the warm, witty, and heart-wrenching debut epistolary novel by Emily Williams. The novel is a love story of misunderstandings, loss, and betrayal but ultimately the incredible bond between mother and child.

Jessie:  You have received an incredible number of reviews.  Please read some extracts from the reviews.

Emily: Thank you. I have been so lucky to receive such lovely reviews.

At this point, Elliot was keen to show off his colouring so we paused to make another cup of tea. Emily took the opportunity to retrieve the reviews of her book.  It took some time as she has over fifty reviews.

‘It is a very emotional book. It’s utterly heart-breaking at times but, perhaps surprisingly, there is quite a bit humour in it too and it is also uplifting.’

‘What a beautifully written book. I enjoyed every page as the story unfolded. Sad at times but also uplifting – just like real life. Loved it.’

Emily Williams

‘I am so glad that I stumbled upon this book. I absolutely loved the entire thing. I’m a sucker for stories like this, stories about true love, and stories about the sacrifices we make for this love.’

Jessie: Have you got an extract from your book to tempt a reader?

Emily didn’t even need to read from the book, as she knew which words would hook the reader.

Emily: However, as soon as I saw that positive blue line seep along the window in the plastic casing of the pregnancy test, I knew you were the one to whom I will write my letters.

Jessie: How did you feel when you had finished writing your book, and did you miss any of the characters?

Emily: I really did miss the characters and still do. Parts of the story still come to me and the words play out in my mind. I became so immersed into the story over the four years that I wrote the book that it was really hard to let it go. It was very emotional for me to write, after been told that I couldn’t conceive. Then when I became pregnant, the words of the book had extra meaning for me.

I felt a mixture of sadness and elation when the book was finished. Then pure fear that I would never be able to write anything like that again!

Jessie: Who would you like to read your book and why? This could be another author, someone famous, a friend or a member of your family. 

Emily: I would love Kate Middleton to read my story. I would hope that she would connect to Flora, having had two children herself, and I would love to know her opinion as the story unfolds

Kate, if you’re listening, DM me and I will send you a copy!

Emily Williams

Jessie: Why should I keep your book in my handbag?

Emily: Letters to Eloise will connect with your soul after you read it (I hope). You’ll always want to keep the story close to your heart.

Jessie: What is the last sentence written in your writer’s notebook?

Emily: ‘I knew where he’d be; where he always was.’ This sentence is from my YA novel ‘The Subtle Art of Keeping a Racehorse. I mainly just have notes or mind-maps in the notebook rather than sentences but this is the last full sentence in the book

Jessie: What is the biggest challenge for an independent author?

Emily: The biggest challenge is being noticed in a sea of other equally fantastic authors. Writing quality is the first step but then finding readers willing to take to risk on an unknown author is very challenging.

I have been so lucky with the support of fantastic book bloggers and reviewers that have been so kind. I am hoping that one day I will succeed in getting my name known out there as an author but at the moment I am content when I receive the lovely reviews I have had for Letters to Eloise.

Jessie: What is the best advice that you have received as a writer?

Emily: Believe in yourself and never give up!

A little more about Emily…

Emily Williams is hard-working and driven to succeed. She is passionate about her writing: she has adored writing for as long as she can remember. She grew up wanting to write novels.  Fortunately, a career teaching enables her to inspire children to use their imagination and writing skills to develop their own stories. Emily is ever thankful to her own primary school teachers for instilling her passion in writing and is hoping she can do her little bit to pass this on.

Emily has far too many animals, but aims in life to buy a farm so she can have some more!

Emily is currently working on her next novel, whilst looking after two children, and host of small pets and suffering from a poorly wrist after a riding injury.

Best of luck to Emily with her debut novel, she has already received an impressive number of accolades.  Emily’s unique storytelling hooks the reader from the outset.  I am looking forward to her second novel. 

Read my review of Letters to Eloise on My Reading page.

 

Please see all my author interviews at My Guests and my blog at jessiecahalin.com.

Rum Cocktails with Janice Horton

‘The Backpacking Housewife’ travelling in Thailand with her backpack on.

I hadn’t expected to see a grey sky when I arrived in St Lucia.  Warm air blasted into my face when I stepped outside of the plane. Why had I tugged my jacket out of my tightly packed rucksack?  A large taxi transported me through the luscious landscape of the Caribbean. Blue sky dissolved the grey and sunshine chased away clouds. My eyes feasted on palm trees, banana plantations and snatches of rainforest.  Finally, the taxi driver parked in an open-air reception of a hotel, and he laughed that I didn’t have any luggage.  Janice spotted me instantly. Relaxed and tanned in her colourful dress, it was clear she was enjoying life in paradise. The bar was located beside the pool area, and tables were shaded with umbrellas constructed from palm trees.   A rum cocktail soothed my senses then chased away my jet lag.  I settled into the chair and kicked off my trainers.

The Backpacking Housewife

Jessie:  This rum cocktail is delicious.  It was a long, noisy flight.  What a relief to be here.  Tell me more about your novel, Backpacking Housewife. What is it about?

Janice:  Lovely to meet you, Jessie.  Take it easy, finish your cocktail and soak up the atmosphere.  You did look frantic when you arrived.  The Backpacking Housewife is a work of fiction but it’s also a travel adventure loosely based on my own travel experiences. It’s a story about an ordinary woman, who on finding her husband of 25 years in bed with her best friend, grabs her passport and handbag and heads out of the door to the airport.

Jessie: Wow.  The book sounds great.  I love the idea of leaving with a handbag and passport.  I love to travel light.  I expect the book was well received by the reviewers.

Janice:  Here’s some reviews on Netgalley. I’m so happy with the response and have lots of great reviews.  It is difficult to choose.

Janice and her husband love to travel.

“Lori’s story had me gripped throughout and I couldn’t get enough of her travel tales.” Linda B. “I highly encourage you to read this novel, which is loosely based on Horton’s actual life travelling with her husband. I wish I could be more like her.” Heather L.“What a fun book to read! For anyone who likes to travel, or who even thinks about travel, this is the book that will inspire you to really do it.” Deah H.

Jessie:  You must be delighted with your reviews. Please tempt me with an extract.

Janice:  “With the top off the coconut, he quickly grabs a bottle of rum from a supply box and pours a good glug of it inside. ‘There you go. A rum cocktail for the lady!’”

On a Long Tail Boat in Thailand

Jessie:   A fun extract to accompany my cocktail. It must have been a joy to write the book.  How did you feel when you had finished writing your book, and did you miss any of the characters?

Janice: To be honest, I was euphoric to have finished because I’d been writing to such a tight deadline. I’d been travelling in Asia when I was asked by Charlotte Ledger, Editorial Director at Harper Impulse, to write The Backpacking Housewife. Once I’d signed the contract, I knew I’d have to stop travelling for a while and settle down somewhere to write the book. My husband and I immediately applied for a housesitting gig in South West France. The assignment was to care for a beautiful chateau in the wine region and a handsome cat called Monsieur Smudge. It was there that I worked on the manuscript and where I battled not to be distracted from the enormity of my task by the beautiful house and swimming pool and bounty of French wine and cheese! And in the end, I will admit that I had grown very fond indeed of brave Lori, the heroine of the story, and was rather smitten with Ethan, the gorgeous hero.

Jessie:  I am so envious of you housesitting a chateau. I imagine you had the opportunity to dream up other stories.  I don’t know how you managed to avoid distractions.  Tell me, who would you like to read your book and why?  This could be another author, someone famous, a friend or a member of your family. 

Janice: Actually, if I can bend the rules a little, I would sincerely like any woman who dreams of travelling the world to read my book. I’d hope to inspire her through this story and through my own travel adventures so one day her dreams can come true.

Jessie: Why should I keep your book in my handbag?

Janice: I believe there’s two good reasons to have a copy of The Backpacking Housewife in your handbag (or beach-bag). 1) To read when an escape from real life presents itself. 2) As part of a relaxing sun-lounger on the beach or next to the pool with a cocktail summer holiday experience.

Jessie: What is the last sentence written in your writer’s notebook?

Janice: Write up author interview for Jessie Cahalin and Books in my Handbag Blog’

Jessie: What is the biggest challenge for an author?

Janice: To write the kind of book that people want to read and publishers want to publish.

Jessie: What is the best advice that you have received as a writer?

Janice: Terry Pratchett famous said: ‘writing the first draft is just you telling yourself the story’. I try to keep this in mind while I’m writing the ever daunting first draft.

Writing desk in France – favourite writing place

About Janice

Janice Horton writes contemporary romantic fiction with a dash of humour and a sense of adventure. In 2014, as empty-nesters, Janice and her husband set off to explore the Caribbean. In 2015, they returned to the UK only to sell their material possessions in favour of travelling around the world.  Janice Horton is the person behind the travel and adventure website www.thebackpackinghousewife.com. Her current location is somewhere in the Caribbean. Janice’s exciting summer 2018 book release is from Harper Impulse ‘The Backpacking Housewife’. Look out for her bestselling romantic adventure novels ‘Bagpipes and Bullshot’ ‘Reaching for the Stars’ and ‘Castaway in the Caribbean’ – a #1 Kindle Bestseller shortlisted for the prestigious Love Story Awards.

What a pleasure to meet an author and a traveller.  Janice and her husband’s decision to sell material goods in order to travel is an inspiration.  Clearly, Janice loves the simple things in life, and I admire the way she grabs opportunities: life should be an adventure.  The Backpacking Housewife sounds like a good laugh!

Janice’s contact details:
Web: https://thebackpackinghousewife.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheBackpackingHousewife
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JaniceHorton
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janicehortonwriter

 

Please see all my author interviews at My Guests and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com

Find out why the book in my handbag is waiting for the weekend…

As it is almost the weekend, I have asked Jan Brigden to present an extract from her romance novel, ‘As Weekends Go’.  Grab yourself a coffee, take a break and let Jan chat to you about her novel.

 

 

 

 

What if your entire life changed in the space of a weekend?

Dear Readers,

I am delighted to present ‘As Weekends Go’. The extract I have chosen is fairly early on in the book.  I think it perfectly portrays how Alex (principal male character) feels after his memorable first encounter with Rebecca (principal female character) at Hawksley Manor, the plush hotel in which they are both staying as guests, little knowing the drama that lay ahead of them.

I’d love you keep ‘As Weekends Go’ in your handbag so you can dip in and out of the story. Open the book as you move from place to place, and flit from one dilemma to the next over the course of their eventful weekend and beyond.

Enjoy!

Best Wishes,

Jan X

Words from the book…

Alex took the scenic route to the car park to try and fathom the effect she’d had on him. Those eyes, so rich in colour, like a tiger’s eyes, sparkling back at him.

As much as he hated how big-headed it sounded, even to himself, he was used to people staring at him. Fact. He also knew that what had happened back there was in no way premeditated on her part; the deep blush and dip of her head when he’d first spoken to her had told him that. How small she’d tried to make herself appear during the ensuing chaos in reception, standing there nervously pulling on the bottom of her ponytail, looking so desperately sorry.

He’d felt like an ogre deliberately holding on to her mobile, but if he’d given it straight back to her she might have fled before he’d had a chance to find out her name.

Rebecca.

He’d certainly never seen her at the hotel before.

What was it his granddad had told him during their precious heart-to-heart the day before he’d died?

‘Believe me, Alex, you’ll know when you’ve met “the one”’

Trouble is, Granddad … What do I do if she’s already married?

More about the book…

When Rebecca’s friend Abi convinces her to get away from it all at the fabulous Hawksley Manor hotel in York, it seems too good to be true. Pampering and relaxation is just what Rebecca needs to distract herself from the creeping suspicion that her husband, Greg, is hiding something from her.

She never imagined that by the end of the weekend she would have dined with celebrities or danced the night away in exclusive clubs. Nor could she have predicted she would meet famous footballer, Alex Heath, or that he would be the one to show her that she deserved so much more …

But no matter how amazing a weekend is, it’s always back to reality come Monday morning – isn’t it?

What the reviewers say…

“I loved this gorgeous love story, written with a sure touch and a big heart.” Bestselling author, Lisa Jewell.

“Alex isn’t your stereotypical celeb footballer (or rather stereotypically portrayed in the media).  His ethics and morals had me swooning as much as his physique!” Shaz Goodwin – Jera’s Jamboree

“Those lovely people at Choc Lit and their reading panel do have a bit of a talent for spotting something special that their readers will enjoy, and they’ve done it again with this lovely book.”  Anne Williams of Being Anne

More about Jan…

Jan is a South London-dwelling all-round book devotee, married to Dave, and one eighth of online-writing group The Romaniacs

As Weekends Go tested as many of my emotions as I put my characters through, so when it was published by Choc Lit UK after winning their Search for a Star Competition 2014/2015, I was elated. I missed the characters terribly, especially Rebecca and Alex, so much so, that I’m currently writing the sequel where I get to spend more time with a few of the ‘As Weekends Go’ crew, plus some new faces who are creating a whole fresh mixture of predicaments for everyone.

I suggest you go shopping, stock up on your favourite treats and pamper yourself with a great read.  Now your weekend is organised, and you can sit back and read about someone else’s dilemmas, as you visit York, Spain and Brighton. I’ll see you in Brighton – happy reading! 

 

Please see all my extracts at Book Extracts and my blog at jessiecahalin.com.

 

When Sue Moorcroft Visited Switzerland

This Christmas, the villagers of Middledip are off on a very Swiss adventure…

Christmas is never far away when Sue Moorcroft releases her Christmas novel.  I am excited to tell you that Let it Snow is out on 26th September.  When Sue agreed to chat to me about her latest novel, it felt like an early Christmas gift.  I also wanted to know how Sue manages to capture the Christmas spirit each year and tell yet another magical story. 

Jessie:  Let it Snow is a great title.  Did you think of the title while listening to the Christmas song?

Sue: No, my editor and the sales team chose it! It’s working title had been ‘A Christmas Adventure’. There’s a singing group in the book and I made ‘Let it Snow’ their favourite song.

Jessie: How do you manage to create such vivid settings?  Did you visit Switzerland to capture the sense of place for  Let it Snow?

Sue: Yes! My friend and fellow author Rosemary J Kind lives between the UK and Switzerland and she said, ‘If you want to set a book there, you can come with me.’ I instantly asked my editor if she was happy with Switzerland as a setting and went back to Ros to say, ‘I want to set a book there!’ She drove us – and her Entlebucher Hound Wilma – through England and France to Switzerland. It was lovely! I’d never visited Switzerland and I was thrilled with it. The Swiss really know how to do Christmas and we went to processions, markets, brunches, choirs and all kinds of things. I try hard to include all the tiny details that capture a setting: the snow on chalets and Christmas lights on balconies.

Sue celebrating Christmas editions of her books. Mark West took this pic of Sue at Christmas in a pub with The Christmas Promise and its German edition.

Jessie: How do you plan the narrative for  Let it Snow and did any of your characters misbehave and change events?

Sue: I met a woman in a same-sex marriage and she had just had a baby. It raised all kinds of questions in my mind and I wanted to write a heroine who had two mums. When she discovers she’s not the result of an anonymous one-night stand as she’d always thought but that her mother had a relationship with a man especially to get pregnant, she experiences a compulsion to discover what she can of her bio-family. I’m afraid my brother Kevan was ill while I was planning the book and I gave his heart failure to Tubb from the Pub. This meant I had to find a relief manager for the pub, The Three Fishes. He is my hero, Isaac O’Brien. I think of him as a reluctant hero because he’s on his way to a new life when he gets sucked into Lily’s. His ex, Hayley, played a much bigger part in the story than I expected her to. Sometimes a character can be secondary but also pivotal.

Jessie: When do you write your Christmas stories?  Do you immerse yourself in Christmas, grab a notebook and begin planning next year’s story gift, or are you writing during the summer and transport yourself to the scene?

Sue: It takes a while to write a book so though I planned Let it Snow in Malta in the sunshine, I wrote the majority of the first draft through the winter. Then the editing came in lovely weather again. When I used to write short stories for magazines it was normal to write Christmas stories in June and summer stories in December so I’m used to it. I had the chance to return to Switzerland when I was almost at the end of the first draft and that would have been fantastic. Sadly, the dates clashed with a professional engagement so I had to give it a miss.

Jessie: Your romance novels have layers and always explore contemporary issues and the changing family unit.  In Let it Snow, it’s that Lily has two mothers, and this adds a poignant dimension to the narrative as she searches for her father.   How did you research this?

Sue: My other brother, Trevor, volunteered to take on some of my research when he retired and he’s brilliant at it. I was able to send him emails asking whether lesbian couples could have received artificial insemination in 1983 and he’d come back with a factual answer. (Lily’s sister Zinnia was conceived via artificial insemination.) For the emotional side I was able to read case studies on websites and talk to someone about twins they know who are searching out all their half-siblings and learn something of their journey. There seemed to me to be two distinct attitudes amongst the children of same-sex relationships, however they’re conceived, and so I gave Lily one attitude and Zinnia the other. I don’t want to give details because they’d also be spoilers.

The ‘singing Christmas tree’ in Zürich. It’s a pyramidical stage for a choir. This appears in the book, of course!

Jessie: I am in awe of how you manage to vary your characters and always make them so likeable.  What three tips do you have for developing characters?

Sue: Thank you! My big tip is to look at each major character through the eyes of several other characters. If we take Lily, for example, I looked not just at the facts of her life, interesting as they were, but what Zinnia thought of her, what Roma her birth mother thought of her and also, importantly, Patsie, her ‘other mother’. How was she regarded at work? What about her ex husband? In real life we behave differently with and are perceived differently by different people and I use this to build multi-faceted characters.

Jessie: The sparks always fly in the brilliant dialogue between your characters.  What advice do you have for writers who wish to make their dialogue realistic?  Can you give us a snapshot of some of the dialogue in your latest novel.

Sue: I think one develops a feel for dialogue. I listen to people speak, think about the syntax they use and try and make it appropriate for age, background and region. An 18-year-old girl and an 80-year-old woman could each say, ‘He’s wicked!’ and mean two entirely different things. Dialogue’s wonderful. It breathes life into characters, allows them to interact with each other and passes information to the reader. Here’s a few lines from  Let it Snow, Chapter 1:

‘We’re your family!’ Zinnia declared, shoving her fingers through her chestnut hair. ‘What you’re doing could hurt Patsie and Roma.’

Lily climbed on a stool and began to feed the string of lights through hooks above the bar. ‘They understand it’s my decision. You know this, Zin. Let’s not press “repeat” on the conversation.’

Zinnia bulldozed on. ‘Aren’t we enough for you? You and I grew up sharing a bedroom! We’re sisters—’

‘And you’re the loveliest sister in the world.’ Lily hoped popping in a positive note would distract Zinnia. She jumped down, scraped her stool towards the next few hooks, gave Zinnia a hug then clambered up again. ‘How about twisting that tinsel around the ivy swags along the mantelpiece?’

Jessie: Do you give your books as Christmas gifts to family and friends?

Sue: No. I give out most of my free copies when they arrive to various members of my family who would read them and to anyone who has played a major part in research. Apart from that, people have to buy them themselves, I’m afraid.

Jessie: What is your typical Christmas like and are there any special family traditions or recipes?

Sue: I like the run up to Christmas and all the festive meetings of the various writing organisations to which I belong or Christmas meals with friends, but when Christmas itself comes around I like a quiet time with family. Between Christmas and New Year either my household or my brother’s household hosts an extended family lunch and that’s anything but quiet.

Sue wraps up her Christmas stories beautifully and her novels are perfect Christmas gifts.  The Ebook is out on the 26th September.  The paperback and audio book will be available on 14th November.

More about Let it Snow

This Christmas, the villagers of Middledip are off on a very Swiss adventure…

Family means everything to Lily Cortez and her sister Zinnia, and growing up in their non-conventional family unit, they and their two mums couldn’t have been closer.

So it’s a bolt out of the blue when Lily finds her father wasn’t the anonymous one-night stand she’d always believed – and is in fact the result of her mum’s reckless affair with a married man.

Confused, but determined to discover her true roots, Lily sets out to find the family she’s never known; an adventure that takes her from the frosted, thatched cottages of Middledip to the snow-capped mountains of Switzerland, via a memorable romantic encounter along the way…

The Sunday Times bestseller returns with a gloriously cosy read, perfect for fans of Katie Fforde, Trisha Ashley and Carole Matthews.

Contact details
Website: www.suemoorcroft.com
Blog: https://suemoorcroft.wordpress.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sue.moorcroft.3
Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/SueMoorcroftAuthor
Twitter @suemoorcroft
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suemoorcroft
Instagram: suemoorcroftauthor

Christmas books:
The Christmas Promise
The Little Village Christmas
A Christmas Gift

 

Please see all my author interviews at My Guests and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

A copy of my novel is available here.

Perfect Antidote to the Winter Blues in my Handbag

Lizzie Lamb Boot Camp Bride

Boot Camp Bride

Lizzie Lamb

 

 

 

 

 

Having downloaded all of Lizzie Lamb’s books, I opened Boot Camp Bride. Remembering Lizzie Lamb’s Scottish romance books, I expected to be travelling with a man in a kilt.  Instead, I was off to London with Charlee, a fledgling journalist.  Charlee is forced to attend a boot camp to get a scoop for the magazine she works for.  I adored the situation set up for this story – such fun! The author is very clever at painting her characters and adding poignant brushstrokes of humour and vulnerability.  Oh my, Charlee’s anecdotes will chase away the winter blues!

First assignment as trainee journalist

Charlee guided me through her adventure, and I could not stop laughing. How does Lizzie Lamb manage to combine humour, adventure and romance?  Charlee was feisty, fun, intelligent and clumsy – perfect.  Undeterred by the alpha male, she managed to fight him with wit and stubbornness.  Lizzie Lamb’s characters and style of writing sparkle in Boot Camp Bride.  This romantic comedy is classic gold: it is the equivalent of comfort food and a good night out with friends.

The soundtrack track to Spectre boomed, as I read the opening chapters of Boot Camp Bride, and Charlee was assigned her first undercover operation as a ‘faux’ bride.  And her ‘self- assurance and sassiness’ made this an absolute hoot.  Charlee’s ‘off the cuff remarks’ constantly entertain.  I adored this refreshingly bubbly style of writing.  The wit and tension fizzed and bubbled like a good Champagne.  At this point, Charlee would observe:

‘If she was beginning to think in clichés, it was time for her to put down the empty glass.’

Bookish setting

However, I didn’t have a glass of anything.  It was a joy to immerse myself in Charlee’s world.  She spoke before she put her brain into gear and is charming, funny and endearing.  Lizzie Lamb used her characteristic turn of phrase to describe that moment when one says the wrong thing:

‘As the seconds drew out, Charlee imagined she could hear the tick of the grandfather clock marking time: feel the chill wind of disapproval whistling round her ankles…’

‘He did a double-take when he saw the cow’s head slippers…’

This captured the moment perfectly! I think there is an element of Charlee in all of us.  She is a very real, honest and intelligent young woman.  Then there is the experienced Bear Grylls meets James Bond type hero, Rafa Fonseca Ffinch, but thankfully he doesn’t take himself too seriously.  I adored the sparks flying between Charlee and Rafa combined with the calamities.  Furthermore, the dialogue is superb, and the scenes were filmic in quality.  Lizzie Lamb is very skilled at challenging stereotypes for comic effect.

The ‘faux’ fiancé’s VW

The narrative hurtles at great speed while the humour awaits the reader around every corner.  Even the weather manages to mock Charlee as ‘hailstones hurled themselves at the window aided and abetted by a cutting wind off the marshes.’  Clever writing makes this novel feel like a trusty companion – I loved it!  It is the sort of book one can return to chase away the blues!

About Lizzie:

Lizzie Lamb, the author

After teaching my 1000th pupil and working as a deputy head teacher in a large primary school, I decided to pursue my first love: writing. I joined the Romantic Novelists’ Association’s New Writers’ Scheme, wrote Tall, Dark and Kilted (2012), followed a year later by Boot Camp Bride. Although much of my time is taken up publicising Tall, Dark and Kilted and Boot Camp Bride, I published a third novel Scotch on The Rocks in July 2015. It achieved Best Seller status within two weeks of appearing on Amazon. I am a founding member of an indie publishing group – New Romantics Press and have held an Author Event at Waterstones High Street, Kensington, London. The icing on the cake, as far we are concerned, and a fitting way to celebrate our achievements. March 2016 saw Scotch on the Rocks shortlisted for the prestigious Exeter Novel Prize and in November 2016 I held an author talk in London, at Aspinalls. In Spring 2017 I published – Girl In The Castle, which reached #3 in the charts. I am currently working on a novel set in Wisconsin – Take Me I’m Yours, and have more Scottish-themed romances planned.

 

Lizzie’s Links

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/author/lizzielamb
Amazon author page: viewAuthor.at/LizzieLamb
Facebook www.facebook.com/LizzieLambwriter
Facebook www.facebook.com/newromantics4
email lizzielambwriter@gmail.com
website: www.lizzielamb.co.uk
blog: www.newromanticspress.com
Linked in: uk.linkedin.com/pub/lizzie-lamb/18/194/202/
Goodreads http://tinyurl.com/cbla48d
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/lizzielamb/
Twitter https://twitter.com/lizzie_lamb
Twitter https://twitter.com/newromantics4

 

Please see all my book reviews at Books In Handbag and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

Smugglers, Secrets and Suspense with Rosie Travers

The ‘gold’ postbox is in the village of Hamble in Hampshire, very close to where Rosie currently lives. It was painted gold after the 2012 Olympics for the cyclist Dani King who grew up in the village.

Author of Theatre of Dreams, Rosie Travers, knocked at the Handbag Gallery door with news of a new novel.  The local landscape of Hampshire inspired Rosie Travers to write Your Secret’s Safe With Me.  During walks along the riverside, her imagination became caught up in possible stories and intrigue.  It is always a pleasure when a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association contacts me to help celebrate a new release, so I invited Rosie to tell me more. She posted a wonderful letter from her golden postbox.

My new novel Your Secret’s Safe With Me explores the intricacies of family relationships and the consequences of keeping secrets.  Pearl and Becca are a mother and daughter who have a successful professional working partnership. The family dynamic changes when romantic novelist Pearl announces her surprise engagement to Jack, a man she has only just met, and uproots Becca and her brother Freddy from their busy lives in London to her new fiancé’s home on the south coast.

It makes perfect sense to set my stories in familiar locations. I currently live in Hampshire, close to the River Hamble, a renowned sailing centre. The River Hamble is a busy, bustling place, but a little further along the coast at Beaulieu in the New Forest is another river, quieter and more isolated. Both rivers have historic boat-building pasts but are now bordered by luxury homes and frequented by leisure seekers, on and off the water, with picturesque riverside walks.

River Hamble inspired Rosie’s second novel: Your Secret’s Safe With Me.

My fictional village of Kerridge encompasses a tight-knit rural riverside community, a little light nautical industry – fiancé Jack’s family-owned marina business, and a salt-marshy wilderness and nature reserve. It is an amalgamation of these two locations together with others nearby, and although the story centres on the changing relationship between mother and daughter, I obviously needed sub-plots and additional situations to test my characters’ resolve. This is where the natural habitat came into play.

Smuggling isn’t confined to Poldark country, and sadly modern day smugglers trade in far more dangerous goods than illicit contraband and kegs of rum.  As I observed sleek shiny white motor cruisers and yachts gliding upstream on my regular riverside walks, my writer’s enquiring mind kicked in. I began to speculate who or what might be onboard and wondered how easy it would be, with a few more isolated creeks and remote hiding places, for some unscrupulous ‘sailors’ to conduct some illegal activities. My over-fertile imagination quickly envisaged a situation where unsuspecting newcomers to the local community could unwittingly become caught up in some treacherous intrigue.  Throw in a former lover and past heartache for Becca, a wedding and a baby, and the story started telling itself.

The overriding tone of the novel is light-hearted, but the river winding through Pearl and Becca’s new surroundings became symbolic of their evolving relationship. Everything seems calm at first, but as the river reveals its hidden dangers, family secrets submerged for many years threaten to bubble to the surface.

Presenting Rosie’s latest novel in the Handbag Gallery

As a writer, I am always interested in how authors seek inspiration.  I like the sound of this novel and the hidden secrets.  I wonder if all will end well.  More about Rosie Travers:

Rosie grew up on the south coast of England and after initially training as a secretary she juggled a career in local government with raising her family.  She moved to Southern California with her husband in 2009 and began a blog about life as an ex-pat wife which re-kindled a teenage desire to become a writer. On her return to the UK she took a part-time course in creative writing and following some success in short story competitions she joined the Romantic Novelists’ Association New Writers’ Scheme. Her debut novel, The Theatre of Dreams, was accepted for publication by Crooked Cat Books and officially launched on in August 2018. Her second book, Your Secret’s Safe With Me, is published on 18 February 2019.

Contact details:
Website: https://www.rosietravers.com
Twitter @RosieTravers
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosietraversauthor
Instagram: rosietraversauthor
RNA Profile:  https://romanticnovelistsassociation.org/rna_author/rosie-travers/

 

Please see all my guest’s posts at Mail from the Creative Community and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

Dear…Anybody?

Meet Rosa Temple, the author of ‘Dear…Anybody?’

Fran Clark writes as Rosa Temple, and she spends her days creating characters and story lines while drinking herbal tea and eating chocolate biscuits. Fran is an indie author and an author with HQ Digital. When Fran told me one of my favourite programmes ‘Escape to the Country’ inspired her latest novels, Dear … Anybody.  I had to find out more.

I was born and brought up in London. Like many Londoners, I took for granted that I lived in one of the most visited and popular cities in the world. London, to me, was always ever just Home. To be honest I never took advantage of all the city had to offer, but in time I got tired of living there. Though I lived in a swanky complex of flats by the River Thames, it was still a complex of flats. I couldn’t handle living in such close proximity to my neighbours – lovely though some of them were.

I never ventured out much unless I had to. I hardly saw friends and family. Everyone was just so busy and it seemed that no one had time for anything apart from buying the latest consumer luxury and binge watching Netflix.

For about 10 years I’d been addicted to the television programme, ‘Escape To The Country’ and my passion for open spaces and tranquillity just grew and grew. My London friends and family thought I’d get bored if I left London, they thought I was crazy and were certainly going to miss me. And I’d miss them, but there was something missing in my life. Let’s face it, a quiet cottage in the country would be ideal for a writer!

Sydney, the heroine of the novel, uncovers hidden truths, secret loves and the possibility of romance lies in wait behind the counter of her favourite coffee shop.

I found the perfect cottage in the Herefordshire countryside, my youngest set off for uni and my husband I left London.

Sitting at my writer’s desk, I dreamed up the idea for Dear…Anybody? the story of London girl, Sydney, who moved to the countryside from London, but for her it was out of necessity. Sydney adapting to country life, discovering a strong sense of community and enjoying a healthier lifestyle with fresh air and a slower pace of life all came from my experience of life in the country. I watch Netflix an awful lot less now and I always take a morning walk along the country lanes. Not forgetting the trips to the farmer’s market.

My original ideas for Dear…Anybody? intertwined a love story with weird and sinister goings on in the fictitious village of Bridley. The published version does include one or two mysteries to solve, but eventually became a novel about love, friendships and finding your true home. I hope you enjoy reading it!

“I enjoyed this book about secret love, uncovering hidden truths and turning around your life for the best. A light read that warms the heart to the end.” Isabell, Dreaming With Eyes Open Reviews

A mother of two, Fran is married to a musician and recently moved from London to Herefordshire. To date, Fran has penned and self published four publications as Rosa Temple; Sleeping With Your Best Friend, Natalie’s Getting Married, Single by Christmas and Sleeping With Your Best Friend.

HQ Digital (Harper Collins) has published three books in Fran’s pseudonym, Rosa Temple. The first was Playing by the Rules in February 2017 followed by Playing Her Cards Right on 28th August 2017 and Playing for Keeps on 12th February 2018.

 

Please see all my Guests’ Posts at Mail from the Creative Community and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

A copy of my novel is available here.

A Girl in Trouble Fighting to Escape the Confines of my Handbag

Rhoda Baxter – author of romantic comedies about smart women

Rhoda Baxter

 

 

 

 

 

Beverley, East Yorkshire

The beautiful cobbled streets of Beverley, East Yorkshire, proved a little difficult on the icy winter’s day. It was such a nostalgic trip for me as we had visited some dear friends there over a decade ago.  Amazingly, Cut-Price Bookshop was still there, and I hope Rhoda would direct me there later, as I had a great big pink bag ready.  Although bracing, the cool air had brought a beautiful covering of snow to the ancient town.  It was very tempting to stop and browse in the independent shops, but I was meeting Rhoda Baxter, romantic novelist, in ten minutes.

Rhoda’s latest novel in her favourite bag

Wrapped in a long, dark coat, large colourful scarf and wearing my Ugg boots, I quickened my pace the tiny Bistro. Rhoda smiled, greeted me and organised a lovely array of tea and cakes.  My favourite sweet treats were the double chocolate brownies.  I removed my coat and sat on one of the bistro chairs.  Rhoda was bundled up against the cold and had to remove several layers before she got down to hear practical jeans and sweater.  She retrieved her book entitled Girl in Trouble from her multicoloured handbag.  It was such a delight for me to be back in Yorkshire speaking with a fellow Yorkshire lass.

Jessie:  It is wonderful to be back in Yorkshire. What do you like most about Yorkshire?

Rhoda: The people! Everyone is so friendly here and there so much less tension in the day to day interactions. I lived down south for a while and whenever we go back to visit friends, we feel the difference immediately. My youngest, who can’t remember living anywhere but here, is always surprised at how when she says hello to people in London, they ignore her!

Also, I’m a big fan of cake. Beverley and York have some amazing cake shops.

I retrieved a copy of Rhoda’s book, ‘Girl in Trouble’, from my handbag. It was easy to spot the familiar bright cover of a glamorous character on the jacket.  As we waited for more tea to arrive we settled to discuss Rhoda’s work.

Jessie: Your romantic novels look great.  Your characters look feisty and fun and Sue Moorcroft described them as ‘the real deal’. Tell me about your characters. Can you capture the essence of ‘Girl in Trouble’ in a few sentences?

Rhoda’s latest book – The Girl in Trouble

Rhoda: My characters often just turn up in my head and start talking. I don’t know their stories, but I know their voices. I’ve had several readers say that my characters feel real to them. That’s the highest praise, as far as I’m concerned. My characters are real to me. They live in my head for the duration while I’m writing their book and I miss them when I finish the story.

One of the reasons I started writing was because in the early 2000s, I got into reading romances and I felt that only a certain type of person was represented in popular romance. All the women were likable and unobjectionable, and all the men were super confident, well-muscled and over bearing. Where were the nice guys? Or the women who were smart and career minded? Or even ones who were slightly hard edged?

Girl in Trouble is about two people who are a little different to what society expects. Olivia is a ladette and there isn’t much that will faze her. Walter is a nice guy and is scared of spiders. One of their first interactions is when Olivia has to rescue him from a spider. Olivia is adamant she doesn’t need a man in her life, even when things go horribly wrong. How can Walter persuade the most independent woman he’s ever met to accept his help, let alone his heart?

Jessie:  I know you have been nominated for writing awards.  What have the reviewers said about ‘Girl in Trouble’?

Rhoda gave a wry smile then scrolled through the reviews of her novel on Amazon.

Rhoda:

Most people said it made them laugh and cry in equal measure. I love that!

” there was a real punch of emotional depth – one minute I’d be grinning at what the characters were saying or doing and the next I was fighting tears.” (Amazon review)

“This book with make you laugh out loud at times but will also frustrate you and make you cry. Everything you need for a great romance. ” (Amazon review)

“Baxter’s narrative sets up the sentimental situation only to send it spinning in entirely unexpected directions.” (Romance Novels for Feminists)

Jessie: ‘Girl in Trouble’ sounds like a romance with a strong character – perfect! Can you read a brief extract to tempt the reader?

Rhoda: He leaned back, flustered. Much as he found her attractive, the idea of being pounced on by her was a tiny bit scary. But, only a tiny bit. Which wasn’t all that scary, come to think of it.

Jessie:  Wow! Your book sounds like fun! I can sense you enjoyed interacting with your characters. How did you feel when you had finished writing your book, and did you miss any of the characters?

Rhoda: I missed the characters so much that I wrote a follow up novella! Olivia first appeared as a minor character in ‘Girl Having A Ball’ (which was nominated for a RoNA Romantic Novel of the Year award). She’s confident and independent and doesn’t take crap from anyone. I loved her so much that I had to write this book to see what happened to her. I wish I was more like Olivia really.  Walter, the hero, is a nice guy. I like beta heroes because they usually have wit and charm (as well being attractive) and I know I’d like to spend time with a man like that!

Jessie:  I love the way you present the characters you want to spend time with.  It must be great to create the characters you are fond of. Who would you like to read your book and why?  This could be another author, someone famous, a friend or a member of your family.  

Rhoda: I’ve love for Emma Watson to read my book. ‘Girl In Trouble’ has a major theme of fathers and daughters, but underneath there’s quite a lot about gender stereotyping and the double standards that we apply to men and women. Boys don’t cry. Girls don’t climb trees (or whatever). I think it would chime with a lot of things Emma Watson raised in her He For She speech.

Jessie: Why should I keep your book in my handbag?

Because it will make you laugh and cry and, by the end, you’ll have met some people who feel like they are real friends.

Jessie:  Tell me about your favourite handbag.

Rhoda’s latest novel in her favourite bag

Rhoda:  The bag is from a shop in Sri Lanka called Barefoot. They make wonderful things out of handloom fabrics. This bag has loads of little pockets inside, so that I can find what I’m looking for (I have two youngish kids – being able to find the packet of tissues at just the right moment is very important!). It’s a colourful, but sensible bag because I can fill it with useful things, sling it across me and run.

Jessie: What is the last sentence written in your writer’s notebook?

Rhoda: ‘beachwear and cocktail umbrellas?’  It’s a note to myself to figure out some details about my characters who are stranded on a tropical island with only a few bags they took on holiday. I liked the idea of them having a box of something that is completely useless – like cocktail umbrellas. They’re red, these cocktail umbrellas. They must be useful for something, right?

Jessie: What is the biggest challenge for an author?

Rhoda: Keeping going. I write because I love it and I don’t know what else I’d do with these people who keep popping up in my head. Writing books is hard, but marketing is harder. Nowadays, authors are expected to do a lot of marketing themselves and really, most of us are very shy. I can’t think of anything worse that going up to a stranger and saying ‘hey, I’ve written a book, wanna buy a copy’… but that is exactly what I need to learn to do.

Jessie:  Where is your favourite writing place?

Rhoda’s writing shed

Rhoda:  My favourite writing place is really my bed – but you don’t want a picture of me in my scratty pyjamas. So here’s a picture of my shed instead. I often sit in there at the weekend and do my editing work. There’s a battered old sofa and a collection of blankets in there, so it’s lovely and cosy even when it’s not the sunniest of days.

Jessie: What is the best advice that you have received as a writer?

Rhoda: Write. Edit. Submit. Repeat. Improve each time you go round the cycle.

About Rhoda

She is fond of cake, British comedy and Lego Stormtroopers.

Rhoda is very serious about girls being allowed to do whatever they feel a passion for. Rhoda is also serious about cake. she’d choose tea and cake over alcohol any day.

Rhoda likes to see the humour in a situation, she says it’s her way of dealing with the dark side of life.

It was wonderful to meet a fun, Yorkshire lass in Beverley.  Rhoda adds feisty, independent women in her books and that is appealing.  Rhoda’s lively, positive nature suggests her books will be a joy to read.  Best of luck to Rhoda with ‘Girl in Trouble’.

You can contact her via Twitter (@rhodabaxter), Facebook or just drop her an email at rhodabaxter@gmail.com, or visit her website at rhodabaxter.com.

Her book, ‘Girl Having a Ball’ was shortlisted for RoNA award (Best Romantic Comedy) 2017.

 

Please see all my author interviews at My Guests and my blog and website at JessieCahalin.com.

 

Travel to a Magical, Mystical Destination with Adrienne Vaughan

Pack your bags and travel to Ireland, with Mia

The mystical ‘That Summer at the Seahorse Hotel’ enchanted me, so I asked Adrienne Vaughan to tempt you with a magical extract.  As it is Valentines’s Day, Adrienne has kindly organised a free, signed copy for the lucky competition winner.  Will Leela deal you a lucky tarot card?

 

 

 

Dear Readers,

That Summer at The Seahorse Hotel

I am delighted to present an extract from That Summer at the Seahorse Hotel – my brand new romance novel.

This is the story of a family with secrets, but one particular secret has tainted all their lives. Now, with crisis looming, it looks like the revelation of this secret will change everything, forever.

Set on the Irish coast, The Seahorse Hotel is a mystical, magical place. This extract features the housekeeper Leela and her Tarot, a guiding light which has seen the family through many dramas over the years.

It’s the perfect story to sweep the reader away to another time and place. Set in the present day yet laced with memories, The Seahorse Hotel, brings a web of lies, intrigue and betrayal to the fore and with the family at a crossroads, makes you wonder if the shadows of the past will blight their future or give them the faith to forge their own way in the world.

Enjoy your stay! 

Adrienne Vaughan

Extract from That Summer at the Seahorse Hotel by Adrienne Vaughan

‘Fenella sat back as Leela’s fingers glided across the pack; gold and purple shapes and swirls.’

Leela dealt until there were nine cards face down between them. Moving left to right, she turned the first card over.

“Remind me, which is this?” Fenella said, touching the card.

Leela hushed her. “Wait until the hand is out. I need to see the complete picture.”

Fenella sat back as Leela’s fingers glided across the pack; gold and purple shapes and swirls. Turning them over she watched the jewel colours of the illustrations, faded now, corners worn, and was again the little girl in the library, entranced as Mrs Fitzgerald, diamonds flashing, tapped each card, explaining every symbol and the impact it would have on the life of the person before her.

“What is it?” Fenella asked.

Leela kept her eyes fixed on the cards.

Take a seat in Archie’s world: ‘Champagne makes everything better’

“You’re at a crossroads.” Leela pointed at the Hanged Man. “The road you decide to take will be life changing. There’s turmoil, conflict in close relationships.” She tapped the Ace of Cups. “I love this one, emotional happiness, home and family.” She thought for a moment. The Seven of Swords lay before her. “Hmm, this fella, possibly betrayal, someone getting away with something. Wonder what that could be?”

Fenella looked away, a squall was building out in the bay.

More about That Summer at the Seahorse Hotel

Mia Flanagan has never been told who her father is and aged ten, stopped asking. Haunted by this, she remains a dutiful daughter who would never bring scandal or shame on her beautiful and famously single mother.

One family, one secret – that changes everything forever

So when Archie Fitzgerald, one of Hollywood’s favourite actors, decided to leave Mia his Irish estate- she asks herself – is he her father after all?

That Summer at the Seahorse Hotel is a tale of passion, jealousy and betrayal – and the ghost of a secret love that binds this colourful cast yet still threatens, after all these years, to tear each of them apart.

One family, one secret – that changes everything forever

Praise for Adrienne Vaughan

‘The story-telling has the same charm and magic I’ve always found in a Maeve Binchy’ Elaine G (Top 100 Amazon Reviewer)

 ‘Adrienne Vaughan writes just beautifully – all of life is here – and I loved every moment.’ Welsh Annie (Top 1000 Reviewer Vine Voice)

‘I think all Adrienne Vaughan’s books are just fabulous.’- Nikki Bywater, book blogger.

More about Adrienne Vaughan

Adrienne Vaughan

Adrienne Vaughan has been making up stories since she could speak; primarily to entertain her sister Reta, who from a very early age never allowed a plot or character to be repeated – tough gig!
As soon as she could pick up a pen, she started writing them down. No surprise she wanted to be a journalist; ideally the editor of a glossy music and fashion magazine, so she could meet and marry a rock star – some of that came true! And in common with so many, she still holds the burning ambition to be a ‘Bond Girl’.

Adrienne is a fun, lively author and this translates into her writing: she is a natural storyteller.

Adrienne felt exhausted but happy when she had finished writing That Summer at the Seahorse Hotel. She said, ‘This book, like some of the characters, was wilful and demanding. I miss Archie, but in many ways, he’ll always be around now.’

Meet Archie and the rest of the entertaining characters That Summer at the Seahorse Hotel.  Pack your bags, go to Ireland to find out what happened ‘that summer’. Read the enchanting story from the author who believes in mermaids…

Read my review of That Summer at the Seahorse Hotel. I can thoroughly recommend this enchanting novel – it is a triumph!  Meet Adrienne Vaughan in my Chat Room.

You can enter Adrienne’s competition to win a signed copy of this novel if you email her at:  mailto:adrienne@adriennevaughan.com.  Mark the subject of the email ‘Competition Entry’.  Good luck!  

See Adrienne’s fabulous new website .

 

Please see all my extracts and excerpts at Book Extracts and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

 

New Beginnings in Beautiful Bramblewick

Ancient, rugged North York Moors

The train moved through the ancient, rugged North York Moors. A whistle nudged me from the stories in my imagination, and I noticed the sign for Goathland Station.  Sharon waited on the platform, wearing jeans and a sunshine yellow top.  Initially, she failed to notice me as she wrote furiously in her notebook.   A Mediterranean sky greeted us both as we headed towards the village.  Immersed in the pages of a picture of book as we walked to the village, I reflected that Sharon had chosen an ideal inspiration for the setting of her fictional village, Bramblewick, as it was like being immersed in the pages of a picture book. As we sauntered, we chatted about every detail of the charming setting – Sharon is fantastic company. We laughed at the sheep wandering through the village as if they were going out shopping for the day.

We laughed at the sheep wandering through the village

As a fan of ‘Heartbeat’, also set in Goathland, I wanted to visit the ‘Aidensfield Arms’, which Sharon told me was also the place she had in mind when she created Bramblewick’s pub, The Bay Horse.  As I recounted my favourite character of Greengrass in Heartbeat, we reached The Goathland Hotel, the Heartbeat pub itself. Without speaking we both walked towards the inviting old inn. We bought soft drinks and settled at a table in the beer garden.

Jessie:  Sharon, this is the perfect setting to inspire your romance novels.  Who wouldn’t want to escape to Goathland to make a fresh start?  What is Fresh Starts at Folly Farm about?

Sharon:  Goathland first came to my attention when I was holidaying nearby, in the very week that Heartbeat started on television. Of course, we had to visit the place, and I loved it immediately. We’ve been back on many occasions since then. I love the surrounding moorland, the beautiful stone buildings, and all these gorgeous sheep wandering the roads! It’s about an hour and a half drive from my home but so worth it. Bramblewick was first mentioned in one of my Kearton Bay novels, A Kiss from a Rose, and I had Goathland in mind even then. (I’ve created a whole fictional network of villages and towns which are cross referenced throughout my books, with Whitby as the place which anchors them in a real location.) When it came to writing a series about a North York Moors village, where else was I going to look? As you saw when you arrived by train, there is a beck and a stone bridge that leads to the village. I simply moved them so that the main street is at the side of the water.  Now that I’m up to the third book in the series, this place feels so comfortable and familiar to me. Fresh Starts at Folly Farm is a story of new beginnings, home and family. Even when life has let you down, love can heal the deepest wounds. In a run-down farm on the North York Moors, both animals and humans discover it’s never too late to start again.

Jessie:  Please can you read a tempting extract from your novel?

Their animals have such a glorious life and are given so much care and attention and oodles of love.

Sharon:  “What is it?” Sam peered into the box and let out a cry of wonder at the sight of a tiny ginger kitten, fast asleep on his blanket.

“Another rescue case?”

Xander gave Rachel a sheepish smile. “‘Fraid so.”

Jessie:  I love it! I can already feel the warmth of the characters – it sounds like the perfect escapist novel.  What do the reviewers say about your Fresh Starts at Folly Farm?

Sharon:  I’ve been lucky to have excellent reviews for my Bramblewick books. They’re quite gentle stories and seem to be very popular. I was aiming for a “Sunday night television series” sort of feel, and I hope I’ve succeeded. Readers certainly seem to be enjoying Fresh Starts at Folly Farm.

Sharon retrieved her phone from her Harry Potter satchel – which she was carrying in honour of the fact that Goathland train station featured as the Hogwarts Express stop at Hogsmeade in the Harry Potter films – then searched for the reviews.

“It takes much awareness and a great sense of balance to treat certain topics without sounding trivial or superficial, nor tragic. This story is pure emotion. Sharon Booth never ceases to amaze me.” ~ Isabella, Amazon reviewer

“This book had me hooked from the start. I have read all of Sharon’s previous stories and this ranks as one of my favourites.” ~ DJW, Amazon reviewer.

“I just love Bramblewick books and can’t wait for the next one!” ~ Writer up the Hill.

Jessie:  It must be a joy to escape to Bramblewick to follow the lives of your characters.  How did you feel when you had finished writing your book, and did you miss any of the characters?

Sharon: It’s always mixed feelings when I finish writing a book. I feel quite sad to say goodbye to the characters, but I’m also highly relieved that the job’s done, because I’m never convinced I’ll be able to write another novel, so it’s always great when I prove myself wrong! I haven’t really had time to miss the characters at Folly Farm yet, as I’ve been busy working on my next book, but I know I’ll be going back to Bramblewick again soon, so I can catch up with my fictional friends before too long.

Jessie: Who would you like to read your book and why?  This could be another author, someone famous, a friend or a member of your family.  

Guaranteed to put a smile on your face and a warm feeling in your heart.

Sharon: I’d like as many people as possible to visit Folly Farm! Specifically, I’d love my daughter and daughter-in-law to read it, as they inspired me so much with this story. Two of the animals in the book are based on two of their own animals, and they’ve got so many pets, including a couple of rescue cases. Their animals have such a glorious life and are given so much care and attention and oodles of love. I’m very proud of them and the way they have given second chances to two very special creatures. I could write a whole series just about them!

Jessie:  The books are a wonderful tribute to your family – how wonderful!  I must admit Fresh Start at Folly Farm sound delicious but why should I keep your book in my handbag?

Sharon: Because it’s a real feel-good story, guaranteed to put a smile on your face and a warm feeling in your heart. If you watch or read the news, it’s easy to believe that this is a cruel, heartless world. Fresh Starts at Folly Farm will remind you that there are good, kind people, and there’s always a chance for love and a new beginning – whether you’re an animal or a human.

Jessie:  Your stories sound like a great joy for your readers and they eagerly await the next book.  I am delighted to hear you are writing another novel. What is the last sentence written in your writer’s notebook?

Sharon: “What will be the outcome of that?” That’s a bit cryptic, isn’t it? It’s a jotting for my next book, which is the second in my Yorkshire Dales Skimmerdale series, a sequel to This Other Eden. I’ve been playing around with plot points and trying to work out the what ifs.   Writing a first draft is such hard work!

Jessie: What is the biggest challenge for an author?

Sharon: Getting noticed when there are thousands of new books released every week. Visibility is a huge challenge, and there are massive demands on writers to get their name and work “out there”, which means more time marketing and networking and less time writing, unfortunately.

Jessie: What is the best advice that you have received as a writer?

Sharon: Just keep writing and getting more books out there.

Jessie:  Sharon, it is always such a pleasure to communicate with you. You are so helpful and kind to others.  Tell me a little more about yourself.

Sharon:  I’m a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association and blogging group The Write Romantics. I’ve published ten novels and written two pocket novels and a short story for The People’s Friend. I’m a huge fan of Yorkshire, Doctor Who and horses, and am shamefully prone to all-consuming crushes on fictional heroes.

Jessie: It’s confession time. Is there one fictional hero that stands out for you?

Sharon: Oh gosh! I have to name just one? Really? I could name dozens of other writers’ creations as well as plenty of my own.  To be fair to all my gorgeous heroes, I’ll simply say Xander, as he’s my latest hero from Fresh Starts at Folly Farm and, of course, he lives around here somewhere! He’s got a heart of gold. Any man who cares passionately about the welfare of helpless animals has got to be a keeper, right? And, of course, he’s a very handsome actor, with a humble nature and a great sense of humour. Most importantly of all, he’s exceptionally kind. Yes, I think it’s Xander’s turn to shine right now, and – oh my word, there he is! Look, he’s waving at me. Er, you don’t mind if I end this talk now, do you, Jessie? Only, I haven’t seen Xander for a while and, well, you know how it is. Thanks so much for our little chat. It’s been fun! Okay, Xander, wait for me! Oh wow, look at that smile. He really is exceptionally lovely, isn’t he? Bye, Jessie!

Sharon vanished without finishing her drink.  Later, she sent me a text message to say all would be revealed in another book.

Sharon Booth

More about Sharon

Sharon is a persistent daydreamer; happy in her own company, she lives inside her own head most of the time, much to the confusion and irritation of those around her. In her imagination, she’s the storybook mum and grandma, who greets her visiting family with tea in pretty china cups, homemade cakes, and effusive kisses. In reality, she tends to groan that they’ve interrupted her writing, while rummaging through the cupboards in the hope of finding leftover biscuits to offer them, and completely forgetting to put the kettle on until she’s been reminded – several times.

Contact details:
Twitter: @Sharon_Booth1
Facebook: www.facebook.com/sharonboothwriter
Website: www.sharonboothwriter.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/sharonboothwriter
Email: sharonb2306@gmail.com

 

Please see all my author interviews at My Guests and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

 

A Summer’s Tale with Lynne Shelby

Meet the author, Lynne Shelby

The magic of Covent Garden cast its spell on me.  Having seen the brilliant trailers for ‘The One I Want’, I felt as if I had walked into the pages of the novel.  Lynne Shelby greeted me on a balmy summer’s evening wearing a sleeveless, coral-coloured linen dress, and flat strappy sandals. Laughter of revellers, in the cafes and bars, rested on the warm air.  Bottles of cool wine sat on tables and tempted us to join the merriment.

Lynne:  Oh.  I am so tempted to crack open a bottle of white wine, but I want to watch some street theatre.

Jessie:  Me too.  Let’s go.

We stopped to admire some mime artists performing an entertaining scene behind an invisible locked door.  Finally, one of the mime artists handed a rose to Lynne and mouthed the words: ‘You’re the one that I want.’ Strange. Did he know about Lynne’s new novel?  Amused, we headed to the nearest a bar. We sat outside and ordered sparkling wine.

Jessie:  The cover of your novel is delicious.  What’s the novel about?

Lynne: Theatrical agent Lucy Ashford falls for film star Daniel Miller and is swept up into his celebrity lifestyle. But can Lucy tame the A-list bad boy, or she just one more girl in Daniel’s long line of conquests?

Lynne grabbed her book from her bag and instantly read an extract to me.

Presenting The One That I Want.

‘Lucy, tell me honestly. Is there something going on between you and Owen?’

‘There honestly isn’t,’ I said, taken aback. Where was this coming from? 

‘I’m not attracted to him.’

‘Does he know that?’

Jessie:  I love it.  You get straight into the drama.  I want to know more.   How has the book been received by the reviewers?

Lynne: I’ve been so delighted by reviewers’ responses to the book. One reviewer described it as “a wonderful story – and a really perfect summer read.” Another said: “The story sweeps you away in a flurry of stardust that will leave you wanting an encore…” and another: “It’s a smart, sharp and sophisticated glance behind the curtain into London’s theatreland. I loved it!” 

Jessie: How did you feel when you had finished writing your book, and did you miss any of the characters?

When I’d finished writing ‘The One That I Want’, I was both elated and slightly stunned all at once! I’d enjoyed spending time with my characters nearly every day for almost a year, and I did miss them when I was no longer writing about them. My heroine, Lucy, who is thrust unexpectedly into the glamourous world of showbusiness, but manages to keep her feet on the ground, is the sort of person who’d make a good friend in real life. The book is a stand-alone story, but it’s also the first in a ‘series’ of books set in and around London’s Theatreland, and I’d like Lucy to have a ‘walk on’ role in another book so that we can keep in touch!

Theatrical agent Lucy Ashford falls for film star Daniel Miller, and is swept up into celebrity lifestyle.

 Jessie: Who would you like to read your book and why?  This could be another author, someone famous, a friend or a member of your family.  

Lynne: I’m always delighted when a reader tells me that they’ve read and enjoyed my book. One of my dreams is to have one of my novels made into a film or TV series, so it’d be fabulous if a Hollywood director read ‘The One That I Want’ and thought it would make a good script!

Jessie: Why should I keep your book in my handbag?

Lynne: Because it’s an entertaining story that gives an authentic picture of the glamourous world of showbusiness, but it also shows the importance of friends and family.

Jessie: What is the last sentence written in your writer’s notebook?

Lynne: ‘She goes to Greece – Why?’

(I need to get the heroine of my WIP to Greece, but not for a holiday – hopefully she’ll come up with a reason for her journey!)

Jessie: What is the biggest challenge for an author?

Lynne: With so many books published each year, I think a lot of authors would say that getting your book seen by readers is a greater challenge than writing it.

Jessie: What is the best advice that you have received as a writer?

Lynne: To keep on writing even if your first efforts aren’t all you want them to be, because you can edit a first draft, but you can’t edit a blank page.

Jessie:  Tell me three facts about yourself.

My ideal night out is a visit to a West End Theatre to see a play or a musical.

My ideal night out is a visit to a West End Theatre to see a play or a musical. I love travelling, especially exploring a foreign city.  Being an author is the best job ever.

Biography

Lynne Shelby’s debut novel, ‘French Kissing’ won the Accent Press and Woman magazine Writing Competition. She’s done a variety of jobs from stable girl to legal administrator, but now writes full time. She lives in London with her husband and has three adult children who live nearby.

I am sure Lynne’s novel is vibrant and fun like her.  Our chat certainly made me want to find out more about ‘The One that I Want’.  Do you fancy a trip to theatreland? A perfect summer read awaits…

Contact details:

 https://www.lynneshelby.com/

@LynneB1

 https://www.facebook.com/lynneshelbywriter

 https://www.instagram.com/lynneshelbywriter/

Please see all my author interviews at My Guests and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

Alchemy in my Handbag

As if by magic, I am presenting ‘Stone Circle’ by Kate Murdoch.  The novel is a rich historical fantasy about a young man’s coming of age, as he learns about magic rituals and alchemy. I have asked Kate to present and extract of her debut novel.  She has written to her readers about the book and her chosen extract.

Dear Readers,

I would like to present you with an extract from my debut novel, ‘Stone Circle’.  

It’s a story of magic rituals and rivalry in a 16th century Italian town.

The extract, selected from the middle of the book, is a scene where my protagonist, Antonius, is being initiated as a seer. It describes the ritual he must go through. 

It is a key scene in my book, because Antonius’s life is undergoing enormous change, and the ritual is a symbol of that. 

Romance, thrilling escapes and alchemy – what’s not to love?

Best Wishes,

Kate x

 

Extract

Antonius watched the blue and amber flames as they crackled upwards, repeating the same patterns into infinity. He felt his body move to the rhythms, and realised they all moved in tandem around the fire. The music, the flames, and the night were as much a part of them as the blood coursing through their veins. The pace quickened and they followed, twisting and turning with fluidity.

Antonius’s mind was clear and untroubled. At the same time, he watched Giulia’s russet hair swing across her back and the long line of her slender white arm as she moved with perfect grace. He felt the eyes of many upon him, but he was not afraid. It was a sense of being held in the embrace of the observation, as if he were returning to the home of a friend that was as familiar as it was strange. Glancing at Giulia, he saw she scattered herbs into the flames. His nose twitched as their combined scent wafted towards him—sage, elderflower, cloves, and others. Three crystals were then released into the fire—purple, white, and gold. Several loud cracks erupted into the air and multi-coloured sparks flew, with a hiss and a whine. In a low voice Savinus chanted. It was a mellifluous language he had heard during the rituals at the blue cave. He spread his arms in an outward motion, as if clearing away smoke.

More About the Novel

Stone Circle explores themes of class, rivalry and spiritual growth. It is a historical fantasy novel.

Is the ability to read minds a blessing or a curse?

Kate Murdoch

When Antonius’s father dies, he must work to support his family. He finds employment as a servant in the Palazzo Ducal, home of Conte Valperga. Sixteenth-century Pesaro is a society governed by status, and Antonius has limited opportunities. When a competition is announced, Antonius seizes his chance. The winner will be apprenticed to the town seer. Antonius shares first place with his employer’s son. The two men compete for their mentor’s approval. As their knowledge of magic and alchemy grows, so does the rivalry and animosity between them. When the love of a beautiful woman is at stake, Antonius must find a way to follow his heart and navigate his future.

Reviewers’ Opinions

‘Murdoch presents a delightful romance, feathered with light touches of fantasy. The development of her love triangle is gratifying, and even secondary characters offer stark dramatic moments…’ Kirkus Reviews ‘

‘Her characters’ interactions with each other and their individualities helped shape the book into something wonderful; at the same time she excels at pacing the story with her characters, all within a framework designed to help readers understand the world of seers and alchemy she has created.’ Readers’ Favorite

‘Kate Murdoch’s fabulous writing is full of vivid sounds, sights and scents that pull us into the scene, expressed in inspired word combinations that are a joy to read. A wonderful, entertaining book.’ Gail Cleare, USA Today bestselling author

Words about Kate:

Kate is a painter turned author who enjoys writing flash fiction and short stories when she’s not writing historical fiction. Her debut novel is a romance with an element of fantasy.  Kate became completely immersed in her Renaissance town and characters when writing the novel.  Kate found it difficult to depart from the world in her novel and this bodes well for a reader intent on escape. The best of luck to Kate with her debut novel.

 

Please see all my extracts at Book Extracts and my blog at jessiecahalin.com.

 

Dutch Food and French Romance with Imogen Matthews

Last Christmas, I made sourdough bagels for breakfast -they vanished almost as soon as I took them out of the oven!

Historical novelist, Imogen Matthews, shares her love of Dutch food and reveals her double life as a romance novelist.

Ah, good food…where do I start? A couple of years ago I went on a sourdough breadmaking course and have been making my own bread ever since. Last Christmas, I made sourdough bagels for breakfast -they vanished almost as soon as I took them out of the oven!

I lead a double life as an author…writing romance novels under my pen name, Alex Johnson, and Dutch historical fiction under my real name, Imogen Matthews.  So here are the flavours of Holland, a place I visit at least once a year:

Flavours of Holland: Dutch pancake

I am delighted to present a foodie extract from The Perfume Muse.  Come along and join Oliver and Julie.

A romantic dinner in Grasse

Extract

Over dinner in his favourite bistro in Grasse, the gorgeous suave Olivier breaks the devastating news that he will be moving to New York. But just weeks ago, Julie gave up her life in Oxford to be with Olivier in Grasse…

‘a piping hot casserole dish.

‘When?’ she whispered?

‘No fixed date but my boss wants the project completed by the end of the year. I’ve told him I need three months, at least, working in Grasse. I think he’s accepted that.’ He drew his lips into a thin smile which broadened as soon as he saw the waiter approach with their poulet served in a piping hot casserole dish.

‘…you can only get the sweetness from these tomatoes which grow in my friend’s garden.

Voila!’ exclaimed the waiter proudly, setting the dish in the centre of the table and flapping his cloth against each plate before placing it in front of them. ‘We have the local chicken from my father, cooked in the oven for a long time with the onions. See how beautiful, soft and sweet, and the fresh tomatoes -you can only get the sweetness from these tomatoes which grow in my friend’s garden.’ He waved somewhere in the direction behind their heads before carrying on. ‘And look at these olives, black and juicy, they burst with flavor. Please, enjoy your meal.’

Flavours of Holland: Appelgebak -Dutch apple tart

‘It looks wonderful. I’m sure we will,’ laughed Julie, who was enchanted by this performance. She was pleased to have the diversion, giving her time to gather her thoughts.

End of extract

 

 

 

Alex Johnson The Perfume Muse

As Alex Johnson I have written two novels: Run Away and The Perfume Muse. My career in the beauty and perfume industry, where I’ve worked for many years as a journalist, inspired my characters and I’ve used my experiences to give some insight into the fascinating world of perfumery.

The Perfume Muse is the sequel to Run Away: the first story is about the break-up of a family and how Julie, the protagonist, copes with life as a single mother and her wayward teenage daughter. Julie falls in love with gorgeous French perfumer, Olivier, but must decide whether he can offer the future she longs for.

At the start of The Perfume Muse Julie and Olivier move to Grasse, the French perfume capital, but Julie’s dreams are dashed when, almost straightaway, he accepts a job in New York. Their relationship is tested by long periods apart and Julie finds comfort in a budding friendship with the intriguing and sexy Jean-Jacques.

Both men, both acclaimed perfumers, vie for Julie’s affections through perfume: each create romantic, sensual perfumes inspired by and especially for her.

How can she possibly choose between them?

Julie’s resolve is further tested by the unexpected arrival of Olivier’s son, Michel.

What were the reasons for Michel turning up out of the blue?

Can the disappearance of the perfume formula Olivier invented for Julie be connected?

And to top it all, it looks like Michel is falling in love with Julie’s daughter, Lisa.

Julie must get to the bottom of this. She flies out to New York to confront Olivier about the son he’s never mentioned and to determine whether her future lies with him or with Jean-Jacques.

The romance novels are very different to Imogen’s recent bestseller: The Hidden Village – the forgotten story of Dutch World War Two History.  Imogen’s romance novels are available for a great price so check out Run Away and Perfume Muse.  I am incredibly impressed with Imogen’s versatility as a writer – she is a great storyteller.

 

Please see all my extracts and excerpts at Book Extracts and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

RNA 60th Birthday Celebrations with South and West Wales Chapter

South and West Wales Chapter celebrate sixty years of the Romance Novelists’ Society.

The South Wales and West Chapter had a birthday party to celebrate sixty years of the Romantic Novelists’ Association.  Each member of the group presented a sixty word slice of their novel or work in progress, along with a biography as a gift to romance readers.  Our words and chat put the fizz into the celebrations.  Unwrap the tiny parcels of words and meet the authors. Enjoy

‘Love Thirty’, Jill Barry

Georgia’s glossy curls were piled high. As she moved, the light caught seed pearls scattered in her hair. Her creamy velvet dress clung to her curves. Nick watched the joy on her face when she first caught sight of him and longed to give her the world. That moment was, and he prayed it always would be, fixed in his consciousness.

Jill Barry

Jill Barry lives close to the estuary dividing Wales from England. Her historical and contemporary romantic fiction is mainly character-driven and she delves into her life experiences to colour her writing. She enjoys bringing different eras to life and, as a multi-published author, enjoys helping fellow RNA members to realise their dreams. Jill is a co-organiser of her local chapter.

 

RNA Romance Reading Month

Debut novel to be released by Ruby Fiction, Jan Baynham

Stelios took her in his arms. Dipping and swaying in time to the bousouki music, Elin felt familiar flutterings in her stomach. She’d promised herself that there’d be no romantic liaisons when she was in Greece. So why did the handsome woodturner have this effect on her? His hot breath on her neck and earlobe made her whole body tingle.

Jan Baynham

Jan lives in Cardiff and writes novels about families and their secrets. An author with Ruby Fiction, her debut novel, will be published in digital and audio in April 2020. Joining the RNA and its wonderful New Writers’ Scheme in 2016 was her best decision as a new writer. She’s joint organiser of her local RNA Chapter.

‘Looking Both Ways’, Catherine Burrows

For the first time, his skin touched her skin as they held hands. It was the closing of a gap, a circle joined. He remembered that quiet moment, in the midst of the restless, big city. They were like a boulder, solid and immovable, while the river raged around them. It was the moment Arthur fell in love with Pearl.

Catherine Burrows

Catherine lives near cliff tops in South Wales, a view which inspires her every day. With published short fiction, articles, a magazine column and a non-fiction book to her name, a published novel is next on her wish list. She is determined, with the help of the brilliant RNA New Writers’ scheme, to become a published novelist and professional daydreamer.

Each member of the group presented a sixty word slice of their novel or work in progress.

You Can’t Go It Alone’, Jessie Cahalin

The unmade bed became their island, and clothes washed up on the shore.  In exchange for three hours together, Jack scattered the opera tickets.  Sophie dug inside her handbag for bruised bananas and chocolate to sustain them until the buffet breakfast.  She expected their unused Paris guide to remain in the hotel room like buried treasure.

Jessie Cahalin

Jessie is a Yorkshire author living in Cardiff.  Wales and words have a special place in her heart. She wants everyone to meet the characters who’ve been hassling her for years. Besides writing, Jessie adores walking, talking, cooking and procrastinating. She joined the RNA New Writers’ Scheme in 2018 and is impressed with the opportunities and support.

‘The Cottage on Wildflower Lane’, Liz Davies

The fading evening light caught the russet highlights in her hair and cast a faint pink glow across her face. Her eyes were alight with wonder and her lips were slightly parted. For one mad moment, he wondered what it would be like to kiss them.

He cleared his throat, trying to drive the disturbing thought out of his mind.

Liz Davies

Liz lives halfway between the Brecon Beacons and the sea, in the South Wales Valleys. She writes light-hearted, uplifting romantic fiction, with liberal doses of humour. She joined the RNA to make friends with other writers and is now part of the admin team and a reader for the NWS, to repay the help, support and kindness she’s been shown.

 

We got to the heart of our books with the collection of extracts.

‘The Warrior Knight and the Widow’, Ella Matthews

As they began to descend yet another endless hill Ellena turned and caught a glimpse of her home. She could make out the flags fluttering atop the turrets of Castle Swein before it finally disappeared from view. She slowly turned around in her seat and gripped the pommel tightly. The conviction she’d made a terrible mistake hardened in her stomach.

Ella Matthews

Ella Matthews lives and works in Wales. When not thinking about handsome heroes she can be found walking along the coast with her husband and their two children (probably still thinking about heroes but at least pretending to be interested in everyone else). She writes cosy crime and romance novels. Her first Mills and Boon title is out in April.

‘The West of Independence’, Imogen Martin

‘You got my message,’ she whispered. He took her hand and leaning forward, kissed her gently.

‘What now?’

He lifted her chin and looked down into her eyes, noticing how the dark brown irises were almost black in the moonlight. ‘We marry at Fort Boise.’

‘So soon?’

He ran a finger down her cheek. ‘What is there to wait for?

Imogen Martin

Imogen Martin can generally be found behind a laptop in her writing nook, or book in hand in a café, or on a beach in Sardinia. She has two daughters and lives with her husband in South Wales. Her debut novel is a pioneer story set in nineteenth century America. She is a member of the RNA New Writers’ Scheme.

 Third novel in the Art Café Trilogy by Sue McDonagh

‘So, enough about me. What are you doing here?’

She shrugged. ‘It’s my big romantic birthday break.’ She indicated the vacant chair beside her, straight-faced. ‘Durr. Can’t you see my hunky, virtual boyfriend?

Jake swivelled his eyes to the empty seat and back at her, raising his eyebrows in mute enquiry.

‘And no, I don’t want to talk about it.’

 

We invite you to post your own parcels of words on your FB pages and blogs as a gift to romance readers

Sue McDonagh

Living on the South Wales coast, Sue McDonagh finds inspiration for both her novels and her art in her beautiful surroundings.

Motorcycles, her other passion, can also be found in the pages of her Art Café trilogy, the third of which will be released in July this year. Her writing explores real life events, with a light touch and humour.

Instructions for Falling in Love Again’, Lucy Mitchell

I step inside the shed, hauling the net of footballs. He’s behind me. There’s something invisible pulling me to him. I turn around and he takes my hand. A surge of electricity powers up my arms. We come together in a passionate embrace. Every single bone in my body turns to jelly as he treats me to a sensuous kiss.

Lucy Mitchell

Lucy Mitchell is the author of Instructions for Falling in Love Again, an uplifting romantic comedy about second chances and friendship. She’s also the author of the award-winning blog, BlondeWriteMore; which records the emotional highs and lows of her life as a romance author. On her blog she also reviews romance novels and regularly falls in love with male characters.

‘Summer Island’, Natalie Normann
Jack liked seeing her laugh. The first time they met, she had been so furious with him, but right now she was happy.
‘You look beautiful,’ he said.
Ninni frowned. ‘No, I don’t.’
‘Yes, you do. You are beautiful.’
‘No need to flatter me. I won’t throw you overboard.’
She was teasing him and he enjoyed it. ‘Doesn’t change anything.’

Natalie Normann

Natalie Normann lived in Cardiff for two years, then sadly had to return to Norway, bringing home inspirations and good memories. A week after arriving in Wales, she joined the RNA and her local chapter, and still can’t believe something this good exists. She writes contemporary romance set in Norway and is determined to show Nordic is more than noir.

‘Summer in San Remo’, Evonne Wareham

She was living a fairy-tale that many women could only imagine. And it was worth it, even if her nights ever after would be cold and bitter.  You can’t undo love. Every moment, from here on, must be etched in her memory. The place, the time, the man. Memory she could fall back into, during those long, cold nights.

Evonne Wareham

Evonne has been a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association for thirty years. While this makes her feel very old, it also means that she has been to a lot of fabulous parties and made some wonderful friends in the romance writing community.  She is currently working on two new books in her romantic mystery series, set on the Riviera

As Time Goes By, Pat Williams

She crept into the bedroom where Owen lay asleep, Bridie looked at his sleeping frame, his thick hair spread over the pillow. She knew nights like this would be few. She slipped in beside him, wrapping her arms around him. Wherever he would be sent, his spirit would always be here at her side. That would have to do for tonight.

Pat Williams

Pat a retired ward sister and nurse lecturer lives in Cardiff and is writing a novel about two people one from Ireland and one from Wales both away from home in London and divided by war. She has plans for a second novel based in Wales. A member of the RNA New Writers Scheme hoping for a chance of publication.

The Cornish Village School – Breaking The Rules’, Kitty Wilson

‘The point is that you, Rosy, are not just the sexiest women I know, you’re the most honourable, tenacious, well, every quality there is and of course I want to kiss you right now, strip you naked and tumble into the back seat but I also want to wake up with you tomorrow and the next day and the next.’

Kitty Wilson

Kitty Wilson lived in Cornwall for twenty-five years having been dragged there, against her will, as a stroppy teen. She is now remarkably grateful to her parents for their foresight and wisdom – and these days spends her time writing romantic comedies with heroines who speak their mind. She loves the RNA and all the opportunities and support it offers.

The South Wales and West Chapter hope you will raise a glass, eat cake and celebrate the 60th anniversary of the RNA with us.  We invite RNA members to post your own parcels of words on your FB pages and blogs as a gift to romance readers.  Let’s share the love, and ‘champion the quality and diversity of romantic fiction.’ Happy Birthday to the Romance Novelists’ Association.

 

Please see all my adventures at Handbag Adventures and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

A copy of my novel is available here.

Gilli Allan’s Buried Treasure

Buried Treasure is not always what it seems

Yippee! I found Buried Treasure hidden inside my blog.  Gilli Allan, author and artist, has written a novel entitled Buried Treasure and agreed to share an extract.  I invited her to tell you more about her latest release.  Apparently, ‘Buried Treasure is not always what it seems’…

Dear Readers,

I am delighted to present Buried Treasure.  The extract I’ve chosen is a flashback to the gathering after the funeral of “Uncle” Bill Sydney. The heroine Jane, a young teenager, is talking to her twenty-plus sister Rachel. Rachel is being typically high-handed and unsympathetic, and suggesting Bill’s wife, Mary, can now have the clear-out of her late husband’s ‘Sydney Collection’, that she’s always complained about. Although Bill’s father, their great uncle Alf Sydney, did unearth a Viking hoard from a field during the war, always referred to as his ‘Treasure’, it was confiscated, much to his disgust. The collection now consists of the far humbler antiquities dug-up over the years, from the Sussex farm, to which Bill added the curios he brought back after his national Service.

“… I promise you will not be disappointed. It is a very satisfying romance, to be sure, but as always with Gilli Allan’s stories, ‘Buried Treasure’ is about so much more than the relationship between two people….” Anne Williams

‘Uncle Bill’s been dead less than a fortnight,’ Jane reminded her sister. ‘And the collection’s not in her way. As far as I know, it’s still in her shed.’

‘He was a silly old fool. You were the only one really interested in it, or in the so-called treasure, for that matter.’

‘We were both thrilled when we first heard about it.’

‘We were children!’ 

‘It was an amazing find. And Bill was only young when it was dug up. No wonder it became a big event in his memory.’

‘Most of us grow up, but I can see you’re not planning to.  As for ‘The Sydney Collection’ … one day it will fall to you to sort it all out. I certainly don’t want a load of old stone-age tools, broken pottery and dirty coins…. Not to mention his “precious – s – s – s – s” !’ Rachel mimics the sibilant enunciation made famous by Gollum in the Lord of the Rings films. She twirls her index finger at her temple.

‘How can you be so…!’ Jane hated her sister’s disdainful tone, but it was true, the older he’d become the more Bill talked about the unearthing of the “treasure”, and since his father’s death he continually obsessed about the secret hidden artefact, never admitted to at the time of the treasure’s confiscation, that he claimed to have found.

‘You’ll have the pleasure of discovering that it was a delusion. Probably just as well he popped off when he did.’

Thank you for reading this extract.  It was fun selecting a short passage that might whet the appetite. If you choose to read my book, I very much hope you enjoy it.  And do please connect with me, leave a review or tell me what you think. 

Best wishes, Gilli x

Jessie:  Why did you select this extract?

Gilli: I chose this section as it’s the first occasion when one of the books mysteries is referred to – the notion that there might be something more valuable – perhaps an item of the Viking hoard – hidden amongst Bills rag-bag of oddities.

In Buried Treasure there is the intriguing backdrop of an old university, and a mismatched couple whose lives become entangled because each has an archaeological puzzle they need to solve.

Jessie:  Why should I place Buried Treasure in my handbag?

Gilli: As for why do I think you should pop Buried Treasure onto the ereader in YOUR handbag?  Well, I don’t think you should if you like your romance sugar-coated!  My writing engages with the more challenging aspects of life and relationships, often glossed over or ignored in mass-market romance.  In real life morality is not necessarily black or white. People are not neatly divided into heroes or villains. Sex is not always awesome – it can be awkward, embarrassing – even abusive – and it has consequences. And in Buried Treasure there is the intriguing backdrop of an old university, and a mismatched couple whose lives become entangled because each has an archaeological puzzle they need to solve.

Jessie:  How did you feel when you finished writing Buried Treasure?  Did you miss any of the characters?

Gilli: When I finished Buried Treasure my first feeling was relief; it was the hardest book I have ever written, but I found myself thinking about the characters long after.

Jessie:  Tell us a little about yourself.

Gilli: I am stubborn, persistent and slightly obsessional; if I wasn’t I wouldn’t have 6 published books to my name.

Gilli: I am stubborn, persistent and slightly obsessional; if I wasn’t I wouldn’t have 6 published books to my name.

Biography:

Living in Gloucestershire with her husband Geoff, Gilli is still a keen artist. She draws and paints and has now moved into book illustration.

She is published by Accent Press and each of her books, Torn, Life Class and Fly or Fall has won a ‘Chill with a Book’ award.

About Buried Treasure

Their backgrounds could hardly be further apart, their expectations in life more different. And there is nothing in the first meeting between the conference planner and the university lecturer which suggests they should expect or even want to connect again. But they have more in common than they could ever have imagined. Both have unresolved issues from the past which have marked them; both have an archaeological puzzle they want to solve. Their stories intertwine and they discover together that treasure isn’t always what it seems.

Reviews

“….credible, three dimensional, affecting characters […]  ordinary people doing and/or experiencing sometimes extraordinary things. Their respective loneliness, sadness and difficult back stories made this seemingly mismatched couple very appealing…” Anne Stormont.

“…[I] have the highest regard for this talented author.  The title intrigued me from the outset; who hasn’t at some time in their life dreamed of finding buried treasure?  I know I have, and found this treasure of a story deeply satisfying….”  Lyn Sofras  (The Manic Scroibbler)

“… I promise you will not be disappointed.  It is a very satisfying romance, to be sure, but as always with Gilli Allan’s stories, ‘Buried Treasure’ is about so much more than the relationship between two people….” Anne Williams

You can find out more about Gilli at:

Find my other books at LIFE CLASS, TORN and FLY or FALL or at:
https://accentpressbooks.com/collections/gilli-allan

Find me at:
http://twitter.com/gilliallan   (@gilliallan)
https://www.facebook.com/GilliAllan.AUTHOR
http://gilliallan.blogspot.com
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1027644.Gilli_Allan
https://romanticnovelistsassociation.org/rna_author/gilli-allan/

 

Please see all my excerpts and extracts at Book Extracts and my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

A copy of my novel is available here.

 

Slice of a Modern Love Story

Claire Huston lives in Warwickshire with her husband and two children.

Claire Huston has been a friend of Books in Handbag for many years. I have enjoyed following her blog Art and Soul because she presents some lovely, simple recipes and she is always so positive. I was delighted to learn she has written a romance and wanted to discover more. I invited Claire to talk about her novel.

Claire: My debut novel, Art and Soul, is a cheerful modern love story.

There’s no problem Becky Watson can’t fix. Except her own love life…

An expert in solving other people’s problems, single mum Becky is hired to help artist Charlie get out of his creative slump. But when she starts falling for her client, she’s forced to wonder: will she be able to fix her own love life?

To add some extra sweetness to the slow burn romance, the story features several delicious cakes. As part of my ongoing baking adventures, I set myself the challenge of making all the cakes which appear in the book. Here are a few of them…

Old school sponge cake with white icing and multi-coloured sprinkles

A classic and the favourite cake of Charlie, the hero of the story. A generous slice of this light, fluffy sponge brings back fond memories of his school days.

Favourite cake of Charlie, the hero of the story.

Chocolate fudge cake with chocolate buttercream

This is Becky’s favourite cake. She enjoys scoffing a restorative slice while having a good gossip with her best friend, Ronnie, who owns a cake shop.

This is Becky’s favourite cake.

Cappuccino cake with caramel buttercream

With life-fixer work being thin on the ground, Becky has been making ends meet by working behind the scenes at upmarket weddings to prevent problems and make sure the bride and groom’s big day goes off without a hitch. This deliciously sweet coffee confection is the cake chosen by one of the happy couples Becky is hired to help.

This deliciously sweet coffee confection is the cake chosen by one of the happy couples Becky is hired to help

Make these cakes!

If you fancy making any of these cakes, you can find all the recipes and over a hundred more on my website: www.clairehuston.co.uk

Introducing Claire Huston

Claire Huston lives in Warwickshire with her husband and two children. Art and Soul is her first novel. A keen amateur baker, she enjoys making cakes, biscuits and brownies almost as much as eating them. You can find recipes for all the cakes mentioned in Art and Soul at

Claire Huston has been a friend of Books in Handbag for many years. I have enjoyed following her blog Art and Soul because she presents some lovely, simple recipes and she is always so positive. I was delighted to learn she has written a romance and wanted to discover more. I invited Claire to talk about her novel.

Claire: My debut novel, Art and Soul, is a cheerful modern love story.

An expert in solving other people’s problems, single mum Becky is hired to help artist Charlie get out of his creative slump. But when she starts falling for her client, she’s forced to wonder: will she be able to fix her own love life?

To add some extra sweetness to the slow burn romance, the story features several delicious cakes. As part of my ongoing baking adventures, I set myself the challenge of making all the cakes which appear in the book. Here are a few of them…

Old school sponge cake with white icing and multi-coloured sprinkles

A classic and the favourite cake of Charlie, the hero of the story. A generous slice of this light, fluffy sponge brings back fond memories of his school days.

Chocolate fudge cake with chocolate buttercream

This is Becky’s favourite cake. She enjoys scoffing a restorative slice while having a good gossip with her best friend, Ronnie, who owns a cake shop.

Cappuccino cake with caramel buttercream

With life-fixer work being thin on the ground, Becky has been making ends meet by working behind the scenes at upmarket weddings to prevent problems and make sure the bride and groom’s big day goes off without a hitch. This deliciously sweet coffee confection is the cake chosen by one of the happy couples Becky is hired to help.

Make these cakes!

If you fancy making any of these cakes, you can find all the recipes and over a hundred more on my website: www.clairehuston.co.uk

Introducing Claire Huston

Claire Huston lives in Warwickshire with her husband and two children. Art and Soul is her first novel.
A keen amateur baker, she enjoys making cakes, biscuits and brownies almost as much as eating them. You can find recipes for all the cakes mentioned in Art and Soul at www.clairehuston.co.uk along with over 100 other recipes. This is also where she talks about and reviews books.

You can also follow Claire’s baking and writing endeavours on social media: linktr.ee/clairehuston_author

Get the book

And if you’d like a copy of Art and Soul, you can get one here. This is also where she talks about and reviews books.

You can also follow Claire’s baking and writing endeavours on social media: linktr.ee/clairehuston_author

 

Please see all my guests’ posts at Mail from the Creative Community and also my website and blog at JessieCahalin.com.

A copy of my novel is available here.