Broadway village, in the Cotswolds, is constructed of honey coloured stone.
Dripping with charm, this village always makes my heart glow and coaxes me to find souvenirs for the senses – and not the bric-a-brac variety.
Broadway Delicatessen and Broadway Wine Company are always essential destinations on our culinary compass. Broadway Wine Company is a boutique wine shop. The wines are displayed like precious books and each bottle has a blurb. Every label tells a story, and the wine merchant invites you into the narrative. Then like a conductor, he throws his arms around until he finds the right melody of flavour for you.
Drunk with enthusiasm, his mind travels to the various wine regions. His words ramble down the dusty tracks to the vineyards, until you reach some possible destinations for your wine choice. Oozing knowledge, he tells you where and how the wine is produced. Listening to your preferences, he starts ‘winestorming’ as he searches for the correct notes of flavour. Speaking, without pretention and without pausing, he finds the perfect match for your taste.
On our last pilgrimage, the wine evangelist helped us to select a trio of wines from the Old World and New World. We paired the Sidewood Reserve from the Adelaide Hills with some Gloucester Old Spot Sausages, served with Worcester apple sauce. Low and behold, it was a perfect match!
Food is the heart of a culture and its identity, so I have invited authors to share the plates of food offered in their delicious words. Beth Elliott has invited me to join her at her table, in Turkey. Travel with me to enjoy the vibrant colours and fresh flavours of Turkish food. A decadent Turkish feast awaits you in Beth’s travel article.
Friends,
A view of the Taurus Mountains at Aladag, in Adana province.
This is the end of a travel article called Cherries and Plums, about a Turkish mountain village [yayla] in the Taurus, north of Adana. My husband was Turkish and his kind relatives invite me to stay with them each summer. Of course, they like the coolest places they can find, hence a cottage as high up in the mountains as they could go.
Best wishes,
Beth
Extract – Cherries and Plumbs
The trees are always laden with fruit in season, sweet and tempting.
All the plum trees in everyone’s garden up in the yayla are bent nearly double under their load of purple-sheened fruit. It takes several days to pick all those we can reach. After making jam until we have used up all the sugar and run out of jars; after filling five kilo bags for each of a dozen friends and relatives in the city and after eating as many raw plums as we dare, the rest at the top of the tree are left for the birds.
In September in the main street of Tekir there is a slightly melancholy air. The summer crowds have gone. Now the weather is cooler down in Adana, the townsfolk don’t come up to their country cottages so much. A few elderly men in traditional baggy trousers shuffle along the street to their favourite café. There they will read the newspaper, talk with friends and watch the much reduced world go by.
Main market in Adana
The street is lined with mighty trees. They provide shelter from sun and rain. Little shops expand onto the pavement with displays of thick jumpers and woolly waistcoats, hardware, newspapers and strong shoes, in preparation for the snow of the coming winter. Alongside the general stores, are food shops. The large number of refrigerated stalls stocked with great tubs of thick, creamy yoghurt and pails of local white cheese reflect the importance of these items in the traditional Turkish diet.
Nearby, another shop also has a refrigerated display, this time of glorious plump green and black olives and turshu – mixed pickled vegetables. On the counter are oblong containers of honeycomb, oozing golden and sweet. The irresistible smell of fresh bread: loaves or the flat pide, wafts to our nostrils.
Everything is piled into the car. We set off slowly down the main street, across the bridge, turn sharply at the edge of town where the houses thin out and the fruit trees begin. The car twists and turns its way uphill. We go past the new mosque with its little pocket money shop underneath [useful for biscuits and matches].
Here the mountain sweeps out into a shelf where shepherds pasture their flocks in the hot summer months. The larch trees grow from this point up. Great cobbles are set in the track to stop wheels losing their grip in wet or snowy weather. The car creeps up in second gear and at last we reach the yayla, set so high above the valley but still far below the sheer grey wall of rock that makes a sharp outline against the sky. Somewhere over the ridge is the eagle’s eyrie.
Yayla soup, made from yoghurt, flour, an egg and broth, with some rice added in. You can add pepper sauce on top for a spicy version, as well as mint.
For the evening meal we have hot yoghurt soup – called, appropriately, yayla soup. This is followed by salad, cheese and olives. Then we fall upon the fresh bread and honey. To finish, there is a huge bowl of plums.
Jessie: This is a wonderful article. I would like to know more about Turkish food.
Beth: I have some photographs to tempt you.
Here is the main market in Adana. Four types of beans, three sorts of peppers, all fresh that morning. Turks won’t eat produce unless it’s of that day.
Breakfast at my aunt’s home
Breakfast at my aunt’s home. Four sorts of white cheese plus one hard cheese, kaymak, olives, salad, dried apricots, walnuts, honey and grape syrup [pekmez]. The boiled eggs and the freshly squeezed orange juice were added soon afterwards…
Another breakfast, at my brother and sister-in-laws’ home. Again, white and hard cheeses, olives, eggs, some fruit compotes, honeycomb and rosehip puree. All washed down with many glasses of tea.
The town of Akcatekir on the valley floor. The holiday villages are up in those pinewoods, near the rock wall, where the goats scamper along all day and the eagles fly out occasionally from over the top.
Scandalous Lady
Jessie: The tables presented speak volumes about the generosity of the Turkish culture. Tell me how your love of Turkish culture influenced your novel, Scandalous Lady.
Beth Elliott’s fiery, rebellious artist Olivia falls in love with the magical land of Turkey. When she encounters mysterious, ice-cold diplomat Selim, nothing goes to plan – for either of them. Is Olivia destined to live a life of solitude and regret? Or will her past stay buried long enough for her to have her happy ending?
Beth Elliott
From a young age, Beth made up adventure stories and persuaded her friends to act them out with her. Writing the novels came later, after a career as a Languages teacher in several countries. Her own Mr Darcy being Turkish, Beth adds a few exotic elements into some of her Regency Tales.
I hope you enjoyed a taste of Turkish culture. Please contact me at mailto:JessieCahalin@aol.co.uk if you would like to share your cultural experiences via food and words.
Please see all my extracts and excerpts at Book Extracts and my website and blog
I ignored the daffodils and buds on the magnolia tree, in my garden, as I tried to write a scene set in the summer. Imagining the symphony of colour and texture of a summer’s day cheered me up. My writing froze when I saw the snow falling. Desperately seeking summer, I opened digital photos taken in July. A gateway appeared so I peered through it. Thrilled, I shared my experience on my Facebook page. I wrote:
I am standing in this gateway, today, looking into the world of my characters. I am having a great time adding summer colours. Only a few months before the summer returns to our gardens. Where is your writing transporting you, today?
Victoria Connolly recognised the gateway and messaged me:
‘One of my favourite places – you can see this very gate in my FB pic here. I’m just launching the third in my Country House and Garden series today so I’m very much thinking about gardens!’
Thus commenced, my adventure with the authors’ characters.
Can you spot Sharon Booth’s characters?
It was great fun when authors told me exactly where their characters were in their novels. I went to Charnley Acre with Deidre Palmer. She was trying to get her characters to a destination, while my characters misbehaved and asked for more food. Meanwhile, Sharon Booth confessed to neglecting her characters, and we were both fearful of what they were up to. Sharon disappeared, but I think she may have popped over to see Carol Warham in Scarborough.
Interlopers in Angela Petch’s beach hut
Angela Petch’s ‘doughty ladies’ discovered ‘interlopers’ in the Sussex beach hut. Sue Fortin’s characters were in Southdowns near, West Sussex. I don’t know what they had been up to, but Sue said she ‘wasn’t sure they deserved such a view’. I was delighted when Sue Fortin and Deidre Palmer’s characters waved at each other. I did wonder if any of these characters were the interlopers in Angela’s beach hut. Caz Greenham’s characters were in Brixham but there was no sign of Eric the Seagull. She couldn’t tell me what her characters were up to, so I can only assume they had also been naughty. I know all about characters behaving badly.
Sue Bentley’s world could not be presented in a photograph. She explained, ‘in my fantasy world of great plains and deep forests – think of parts of Yellowstone National Park coupled with an Amazon rain forest!’ Although I felt nervous of this new world, I knew Sue would guide me through it, and it was fascinating.
Ovington Square with Sebnem Sanders and a night out with Lynne Shelby
Following the adventures in Sue Bentley’s world, it was time to head for a night out, in London, with Lynne Shelby. I stopped over with Sebnem Sanders in Ovington Square, London, before her characters took her to Istanbul. Finally, I ended on a cliff-hanger with Jane Lovering and Mandy James. These authors have created dream seaside locations.
Cliff-hanger with Jane Lovering and Mandy James
Travelling to the various locations was akin to a mini break, at my computer. However, I was a little worried about Rosemary Noble who told me she was ‘up a gum tree’, in Australia. Thankfully, she is back in the UK and had been spotted in Grimsby.
Sue Fortin and Deidre Palmer’s characters were in Southdowns near, West Sussex
I had a whistle-stop tour of various authors’ destinations between the pages of my own novel. Thanks to all the authors, I had a lovely day and managed to finish my scene. Who says Facebook is a distraction?
A vast, grey building stood proud amongst other worn buildings.
Cardiff Bay discarded its gloss, as I walked through an alleyway to reach Octavo’s Bookshop and Bar. A vast, grey building stood proud amongst other worn buildings. A large bar dominated the entrance to Octavo’s Bookshop and Bar. Confronted with: a coffee machine, rows of cakes, books and a selection of alcoholic beverages, I had found heaven. Seating was placed in every area of the shop thus combining reading and socialising. I couldn’t decide whether to install myself in one of the lazy reading areas or sit at a table.
I had found heaven
A table near a shelf of gifts for writers beckoned me. Having ordered my Americano, I read the lunchtime menu and selected A Tale of Tuna Cities: a tuna melt. The blank page of my notebook glared at me. I attacked it with a confessional statement: ‘I need to start another story’. Time to move on from debut novel. ‘Where do I begin?’ I asked my notebook.
Pearl’s letter to Jim appeared on my notebook. I have sent my characters out into world, but they haunt me. Remnants cornices, the bar and size of the rooms prompted me to visualise Pearl in this place during the seventies.
Where do I begin?’ I asked my notebook.
Sat at a battered table, she removed her red gloves and started to tug at the beer mat. Her sleeves soaked rested in a puddle of beer. Though she waited to find out more details of the audition, she thought of Jim reading her letter.
A familiarity about the place transported me into Pearl’s world. I couldn’t get Pearl out of my head. I had to find out more about the history of the place. I felt certain the building must have been a pub at some time in the past; a sense of history nudged my imagination.
I searched for a seventies photo of Bute Street and it looked familiar. Indeed, the street looked exactly like the place Pearl visited in my book.
I discovered the building is the oldest surviving building in what was known as Tiger Bay. Tiger Bay was also the home of the wonderful legend – Shirley Bassey. Originally, the location of Octavo’s Bookshop was the Bute Dock Hotel. I searched for a seventies photo of Bute Street and it looked familiar. Indeed, the street looked exactly like the place Pearl visited in my book. I could hear Pearl’s footsteps echoing down the alleyway, as she searched for her B&B. I stumbled on the place I created for my book, and Pearl asked me to go back and tell her story in another novel.
Octavo’s Bookshop is a welcoming, calm bookish environment that invites the customer to linger, read and create
Before paying, I looked around the shop and spotted a poster telling me ‘We are on the same page’, perhaps this was another message from Pearl. On leaving, I received a new bag and a gift, because I spent over five pounds. Octavo’s Bookshop is a welcoming, calm bookish environment that invites the customer to linger, read and create. I had a wonderful time exploring the books on offer. The staff are proud and enthusiastic about the bookshop.
Handbag clasped at my side, I strode with confidence from Octavo’s Bookshop and back to Cardiff Bay. My literary travels often take me down numerous side streets and alleyways that echo with past lives. Two young men stubbed out their cigarettes before commencing a conversation. Darkness lingered in the alleyway and puddles. Looking ahead, I refused to shiver. A seventies mini pulled up, and I spotted Jim, Pearl’s husband.
Jessie’s novel ‘You Can’t Go It Alone’
‘On opening the car door, Jim called, ‘Pearl.’ A passing truck muffled his voice. Heavy traffic prevented Jim from crossing the road for a little while. Jim peered in each alleyway. Then he heard the clip, clipping of heels on the pavement. Distant echoes stopped. Where had Pearl gone? He increased his pace. Loud voices echoed. As he got nearer, he recognised Pearl’s voice, but it was shrill and ugly and strangled with fear.’
Love, music and secrets are woven together in this poignant, heart-warming narrative.
Set in a Welsh village, the story explores the contrast in attitudes and opportunities between different generations of women. As the characters confront their secrets and fears, they discover truths about themselves and their relationships.
The reader is invited to laugh and cry, with the characters, and find joy in the simple things in life. Listen to the music and enjoy the food, as you peek inside the world of the inhabitants of Delfryn.
Let Sophie show you that no one can go it alone.
Who knows, you may find some friends with big hearts…
Jessie Cahalin
About Jessie
Jessie is word warrior, bookish blogger and intrepid virtual explorer. She loves to entertain with stories, and is never seen without her camera, phone, notebook and handbag. Fellow authors have deemed her ‘creative and quirky’ and she wears these words like a blogging badge of honour.
Having overcome her fear of self-publishing, she is now living the dream of introducing the characters who have been hassling her for decades. Her debut novel, You Can’t Go It Alone, is a heart-warming tale about the challenges women still face in society. The novel has light-hearted moments and presents hope. As C. S. Lewis said, ‘We read to know we are not alone.’
Connecting with authors via her Books in my Handbag Blog is a blast. She showcases authors’ books in the popular Handbag Gallery and has fun meeting authors in her virtual world. Communicating with her authors still gives Jessie a creative buzz.
Jessie Cahalin hails from Yorkshire but lives in Wales with her husband. She loves to travel the world and collects cultural gems like a magpie. She searches for happy endings, where possible, and needs great coffee, food and music to give her inspiration.
And, the sun shone as soon as Robb Merchant, proprietor of White Castle Vineyard, opened the wine.
After the launch of my novel, I needed to celebrate. Luckily, my adventures sent me to White Castle Vineyard where I found summer fruits in bottles. Hallelujah, I found the land of wine on my doorstep and heaven in a glass. And, the sun shone as soon as Robb Merchant, proprietor of White Castle Vineyard, opened the wine.
Once I tasted the wine, I forget about books and handbags. The Pinot Noir chorused cherries, berries and a soft, complex vanilla finish. Ripe strawberries leapt from the bottle of rosé, while the Siegerrebe wine dripped with the juices of peaches and nectarines. Divine wine is produced in White Castle Vineyard, South Wales, and French winemakers are talking about it. Robb told the story of his wine from grape to glass: a labour of love inspired by his wife’s dream to own a vineyard.
A labour of love – the vineyard in springtime
Robb and Nicola Merchant bought the farm in 1993. Vines were planted on 1st May 2009 and produced the yield of grapes in 2011. The couple nurtured the vines, while Robb worked for the Post Office. Nowadays, Robb works full-time in the vineyard while Nicola still works part-time as a District Nurse. I wonder if she can recommend a course of wine to her patients ?
A celebration of the quality products on offer
Robb transformed the barn into a retail shop, for Welsh Wine Week, in 2012, and their wine story commenced. Robb’s enthusiasm is an inspiration . He said, ‘A vineyard is a way of life. It’s not physically hard work but is repetitive. But it’s not work because we enjoy it. We love our life. Agriculture in in my blood.’
White Castle located near to the vineyard.
Robb is dedicated to raising the profile of Welsh wine. In 2014, Robb and Nicola were invited to provide seventy bottles of wine for NATO Summit, in Wales. This year, the Wines of Great Britain Trade and Press Tasting event welcomed White Castle Vineyard and other Welsh wine producers for the first time. The Welsh Government supported the wine producers from Wales.
Robb’s current innovation involves collaboration with a vineyard in North Wales to grow Cabernet Franc and Sauvingnon Blanc. They will experiment to see how the slate and gravel soil of North Wales and Clay, Sand and loam impacts on the flavours of the grape varieties. Research into French winemaking methods will be applied to the process. I am impressed with Robb’s dedication to his art: an art he has learned since he planted the vines in 2009. Robb predicts ‘a defining year for Welsh viticulture in 2018’, as he believes the Welsh wine brand will be secured. Dedicated to working with other Welsh vineyards to secure the brand, he knows they can’t go it alone.
A book and wine for my handbag
Robb is a charismatic and passionate ambassador for all Welsh produce. During the summer, White Castle Vineyard offers a plate of Welsh cheeses paired with is wine. Mouldy Mable, Heb Enw and Teifi cheese are presented on the platter with local chutneys. The vineyard is located between the market towns of Abergavenny and Monmouth. You will receive a warm welcome from Rob and Nicola.
Next time you visit the green, green grass of Wales, look for the vineyards nestled in the landscape. Celebrate Wales with a wonderful glass of wine, and if you listen carefully you may hear the wine notes singing to you like one of the glorious Welsh choirs. My next stop will be Parva Vineyard located in Tintern. However, I couldn’t leave without finding a book and wine for my handbag.
What happens if nine northern authors collaborate on an anthology?
What happens if nine northern authors collaborate on an anthology? You will find one shop, Miss Moonshine and a gift of happy endings. Miss Moonshine’s Emporium of Happy Endings is an anthology of heartwarming romantic stories from the Authors on the Edge: Mary Jayne Baker, Sophie Claire, Jacqui Cooper, Helena Fairfax, Kate Field, Melinda Hammond, Marie Laval, Helen Pollard and Angela Wren. Listen in as the authors chat about the inspiration behind the anthology.
Kate: The character of Miss Moonshine was the starting point for the stories. I loved reading how we all described her, such as Jacqui’s introduction to her:
‘A tiny woman in a flowing, sleeveless lace gown was dusting the displays with what looked like an ostrich feather. A glittering black hairband scraped her silvery hair back off her face. Her eyebrows were arched and high.’
Meet the Authors on the Edge: Mary Jayne Baker, Sophie Claire, Jacqui Cooper, Helena Fairfax, Kate Field, Melinda Hammond, Marie Laval, Helen Pollard and Angela Wren.
Jacqui: We needed to make sure all our descriptions of Miss Moonshine’s character matched. Marie had the brilliant idea of basing Miss Moonshine’s appearance on Vivienne Westwood. Vivienne Westwood is over 70 now but still as sparky as ever, she wears beautiful, quirky clothes, she’s not afraid to be different – and she has just the right northern accent!
Sophie: We also agreed she would be an ethereal character, said to be from the Pendle area (with all its associations with witches and magic), who has owned the shop since the 1700s, when Melinda’s story opens, to the present day. We later added Napoleon the dog, who was the ingenious idea of Marie, and the perfect companion for her.
Kate: Napoleon certainly shows off his personality in some of the stories! Miss Moonshine’s shop ties the stories together too, and Helen captures the place perfectly.
‘The handsome stone building had been here since 1777, according to the date above the door.
‘The handsome stone building had been here since 1777, according to the date above the door. Set back from the road, with roses dotted between the stone slabs in front and growing up an arch over the doorway, it looked more like a fine old house than a place of business.’
Jacqui: The shop is based on a real place. When we all gather in Hebden Bridge, we meet very near the Heart Gallery. It’s in a beautiful old building that used to be a chapel, with an arch of roses at the entrance. If you look carefully at our book cover, you’ll see the year 1777 over the door.
Kate: It was fascinating to see how we all filled the shop with unusual items. You summed it up brilliantly, Mary Jayne:
‘Tat and treasure, mingling like a mismatched couple’s wedding list. The only thing they had in common was that each item there was chosen. Everything on sale had been personally selected by Miss Moonshine.’
Kate: How did you choose which object would feature in your story?
Mary Jayne: My object is a pulp fiction novel of the 1960s called “Budgerigars Don’t Talk”. My heroine Callie, somewhat unwillingly, accepts this as a gift from Miss Moonshine, only to find herself falling for the anonymous doodler who’s annotated the book as she reads it.This was inspired by a very real book called “Crows Can’t Count” that I picked up in a second-hand bookshop in Southport over Christmas, for the sole reason that the title made me smile. I was tickled by the idea of parodying the detective fiction genre, and it was great fun to create the story within my story. So my quirky item from a dusty second-hand shop was inspired by a real-life quirky item from a dusty second-hand shop – I think Miss Moonshine would approve!
Angela: My central character, Maddie, is in a difficult place emotionally. She has an immediate need – to win the rally that she is engaged in for the duration of the story – and an inner, more long-term worry about her dad’s business. Miss Moonshine gave her some rose quartz, which brings inner calm and is good for the heart. It seemed to me that it was just what Maddie needed… and not only for herself.
What happens if nine northern authors collaborate on an anthology?
Marie: I love music boxes. When on holiday in France a few years ago I bought one that played the French song La Javanaise. It is a very beautiful, very melancholic song by Serge Gainsbourg that always makes me cry, but I do hope that my story won’t make the reader cry!
Kate: Your hero wasn’t impressed by Miss Moonshine’s shop when he first visited, Marie. That scene made me laugh:
‘He stepped forward, but the lighting was so dim he bumped into a display table, causing the odd assortment of tins, cups and saucers, and dainty porcelain figures to clatter. What a strange collection. Were these ancient medical implements? And what about that fossilised crocodile skull, complete with teeth?
He shook his head in dismay. How could anyone want to purchase any of this junk? The name of the shop was misleading. Perhaps Miss Moonshine’s Wonderful Emporium should be called Miss Moonshine’s Weird Emporium.’
Kate: If your main character was writing a review of Miss Moonshine’s Wonderful Emporium, what do you think he or she say?
Helena: She would say Miss Moonshine’s Emporium is far more than just a shop, and that Miss Moonshine had given her the strength to embrace her future – as well as introduced her to the man she loves.
Melinda: Diana, my main character might say this (translating it from her Regency speech to modern day, of course!)
“I would give Miss Moonshine’s Emporium 4 stars. It has such a welcoming atmosphere and I felt completely at home as soon as I walked in. I have never seen a shop like it, so many strange and wonderful objects, some of which are completely foreign to me. I would have given it 5 stars, only during my time there I think I only once saw a customer!”
Mary Jayne: My heroine Callie has business dealings with Miss Moonshine – she sells her craft pieces for her stock – so it would be in her interests to give the emporium five stars! Nevertheless, she is a little wary of Miss Moonshine, having heard some of the whispers surrounding the objects on sale. I think she might feel obliged to include a warning in her review – she knows that lives change irrevocably when people shop at Miss Moonshine’s.
Kate: That’s a good point, Mary Jayne. Would you dare visit Miss Moonshine’s shop?
Mary Jayne: I’m not sure I would! But if I did, I think she’d sell me something to improve my confidence. Perhaps a beautiful vintage fountain pen that would help me write the perfect book…
Marie: I agree, I need self-confidence too, like many of the heroines in the anthology. Miss Moonshine certainly helps several of them find a new, exciting life filled with love and happiness. As for which object would help me develop self-belief and confidence, I’m not sure…perhaps a music box with a happy, magical tune.
Sophie: I would love to visit Miss Moonshine’s shop – if only to find out what she would sell me. What is missing from my life? – I’m not sure, but what I’d wish for would be a box of inspiration to fuel a lifetime of story-writing. If anyone could conjure up something as magical and exciting as that, Miss Moonshine could!
A copy of Miss Moonshine’s Emporium of Happy Endings in my handbag.
I wonder what Miss Moonshine would sell me? Would it be a vintage handbag? I wouldn’t want anything elaborate, just something to make me smile. I think I could settle for a copy of Miss Moonshine’s Emporium of Happy Endings in my handbag. I love the way the concept behind this book makes think about happy endings, and I can’t wait to read it. I will also visit Heart Gallery, in Hebden Bridge, when I visit Yorkshire.
The ritual of making tea always punctuates the flow of my day. I meander to the kitchen between words. Making the tea helps my thoughts to flood out. Builder’s tea is my preference, but a friend challenged me to try something more refined. Thus, we went to Bath in search of tea and Jane Austen.
Bath Market has a wonderful array of teas. The selections are stored in jars like a sweetshop, but woe betide you if you venture to pick up the jars. The assistant will guide you through the tea sniffing journey.
Selections are stored in jars like a sweetshop
I noted the different textures of the tea leaves: some leaves are larger and crisp while others are smaller and smoother. It was all rather overwhelming to learn selecting tea can be an art form.
I was forced to make my selection on the scent rather than the taste. I pontificated for some time. It had to be Lapsang Souchong, because I liked the sound of the words. It is a black tea, and the aroma of the tea leaves is beautifully smoky. The assistant said, ‘It is packed full of antioxidants and supports well-being.’ The tea sounded like a medicine delivered by a therapist. Apparently, ‘ this tea strengthens the immune system, prevents cardiovascular diseases and fights inflammation.’ Moreover, the Lapsan Souchong can assist with a hangover. What more could one ask for?
Which tea would you choose?
My selection was carefully wrapped in a parcel, labelled and presented to me. I couldn’t wait to try the tea at home. Initially, the tea was smoky with a hint of disinfectant. However, as the tea reached room temperature, the taste was pleasantly smoky and quite soothing. As I drank the tea, I decided to write this blog post.
According to Lin Yutang, ‘There’s something in the nature of tea that leads us into a world of quiet contemplation of life.’ And this seemed to work for me after the taste of the disinfectant had subsided.
I did meet with Jane Austen on another trip to Bath. On this occasion, I heard whispers as I strolled past the Royal Bath Crescent. A woman’s voice confided:
‘But indeed, I would rather have nothing but tea.’ Mansfield Park by Jane Austen
I prefer builder’s tea
Perhaps, the esteemed Miss Austen visited one of the grand houses to take tea with the lady of the house. However, I suspect tea making was also a glorious, thought-provoking ritual for Jane Austen.
Let me know what you think of speciality teas. Do you prefer a robust builder’s tea or a speciality tea? Is coffee the only fuel for your words?
We traversed the huge reception area to explore the warren of walkways, all undercover.
The Hay Festival tent welcomed us in all its fabulous, festive glamour. Camping could be an option for holidays, if tents were presented like this bookish village. We traversed the huge reception area to explore the warren of walkways, all undercover. Uninhibited by an event schedule, I took in: the shops, food hall, cafes, bars, live music and restaurants.
An overwhelming sense of calm dominated the entire experience so far removed from loud music and food festivals. Bookworms snuggled in every nook and cranny digging into their latest treasure. If people looked up, they smiled at fellow readers.
One bookworm carried a bag with the logo: ‘imagine the world’.
I wonder how many book destinations were spinning around in the atmosphere as people relaxed into their imaginations? As bookworms travelled around the tent, there was no pushing and shoving or frayed tempers. Everyone queued with grace while using the time to read. One bookworm carried a bag with the logo: ‘imagine the world’. Instantly, I inquired where to purchase the bag, she explained a route through the warren to the Hay Bookshop.
On route to the Hay Bookshop, I spotted glorious illustrated menus of bookish events.
On route to the Hay Bookshop, I spotted glorious illustrated menus of bookish events
I long to attend Benjamin Zephaniah’s poetry reading but knew I couldn’t stay until 10pm. His ‘Dance hall style, big mouth chanting’ hooked me when I listened to his performance at university. Instead, I searched for a book of Benjamin’s poems in the bookshop. Distracted by the authors signing books, I took photos of the marvellous queues waiting. How wonderful to meet the readers personally and realise your writing has connected. For me, the queues of readers inspired a little envy. ‘One day’, I whispered to myself before making a purchase.
‘You Can’t Go It Alone’ sat in a deckchair, sheltered by my umbrella, and soaked up the atmosphere.
Welsh rain poured mischievously in the open areas but no one worried. Readers sat with the umbrellas sheltering their books as they sipped coffee and wine. Deckchairs waited patiently for the sun to arrive. My book attended the festival and demanded a look around. ‘You Can’t Go It Alone’ sat in a deckchair, sheltered by my umbrella, and soaked up the atmosphere. A delightful woman, from California, came over to meet my book. She also had a selfie with my book and said she would look up Books in my Handbag Blog. I do hope she reads this post, as the impromptu meeting was a highlight of my day – she was so kind and enthusiastic. I wanted to tell her more about Sophie, Rosa, Olivia and Pearl but stumbled on my words.
A delightful woman, from California, came over to meet my book.
Following the visit to the bookworms’ tent, we strolled into the village of Hay. On the road to the village front gardens were teeming with flowers, coffee, cakes, books, journals, bric-a-brac, home-made jams and clothes. We bought freshly baked Welsh cakes from an improvised stall on a gate post. The Poetry and Prosecco experience captured my curiosity.
A Prosecco shack was under construction, as I looked at a stall with poetry and handprinted cards and messages. Francesca Kay, a performance poet, presented her poems in hand designed seed packets.
Francesca Kay
She wants her poems to present a seed of an idea and had no intention of presenting the poems in a book. Poems are presented on cards, in matchboxes and anything that inspires her. Francesca’s first printing press lived in her kitchen and now she has an entire studio. For Francesca, the printing ink is a language, and she waxed lyrical how the ink makes different impressions on various surfaces and in various conditions. Indeed, she explained ‘making an impression’ originated from the printing process. Her stall of tactile tweets was so much to take in, I couldn’t decide what to buy. The creative challenge to the conventional printed book forced me to reflect on my determination to see my book in print.
Her stall of tactile tweets was so much to take in, I couldn’t decide what to buy.
Perhaps, I need explore the spoken word. Maybe, I could commission Francesca to print some quotations from the book. Who knows?
I will return to Francesca’s website, and I will return to the Hay Festival. The whole experience made an impression on my creative appetite. People encountered made the adventure unique. I may not have met with Benjamin Zephaniah, but I did meet a performance poet who was printing her work using her own language.
How wonderful to meet the readers personally and realise your writing has connected. Cressida Cowell greets her readers.
While writing this blog post I received reply to a tweet from one of the festival marshals. Ironically, he met with Benjamin Zephaniah and said, ‘He brought poetry to life for me as a young teen, some time ago, it was so great to meet him. And he was so friendly and lovely too!’ I am satisfied to have received this insight, as it reinforced my impression of the poet.
I took in: the shops, food hall, cafes, bars, live music and restaurants
I wonder what impression I would gain of the festival if I spent a couple of days there and experienced the atmosphere in the evening. I would like to attend some of the formal events, in the future, but have realised the festival is so much more than a bookish wonderland I expected to find. The Hay Festival is a festival of creative minds and the logo ‘imagine the world’ has captured the magic.
Elizabeth Clark is a debut novelist. I was delighted to be asked to chat with Elizabeth about her new novel, ‘Lay me to Rest’, was released on 29th September. It is always an honour to support a new author. I organised to meet with Elizabeth at the suitably spooky location of Tredegar House, Newport. It is a 17th century country house now owned by the National Trust, and it has a great atmosphere. One can imagine the ghosts of past inhabitants moving around the long corridors.
We met in the teashop, located in the courtyard. Prior to Elizabeth arriving, I had ordered a selection of cakes. Elizabeth was delighted with the array of cakes and instantly grabbed herself a slice of very rich-looking chocolate cake while I poured the tea. Elizabeth travelled from the Midlands. She was wearing faded jeans, a brown faux leather jacket and ankle boots. Her handbag was a brown faux leather tote. Elizabeth was cheerful and excited to be meeting at Tredegar House.
“I love antiquity and can spend hours poking round old houses. I love the atmosphere – I find it very calming – apart from finding endless inspiration for future stories!”
We sampled the cakes before settling down to chat about the book.
Jessie: It’s lovely to meet you here. Tell me a little about yourself.
Elizabeth: I was a stay-at-home mum whilst my three children were small. I’ve worked part-time for twenty years now as a specialist teaching assistant, producing modified large print and Braille resources for visually impaired and blind students in both primary and secondary education. I have always enjoyed writing and often find my imagination running away with me, so it’s a great outlet! I have written poetry and short stories for many years, and have had a few things published, but ‘Lay Me to Rest’ is my first attempt at a novel for adults.
Jessie: Can you capture the essence of your novel in a few sentences?
Elizabeth: ‘Lay Me to Rest’ is the story of the newly-widowed, pregnant Annie’s attempt to overcome her depression, by renting a remote cottage in Anglesey. Her arrival, however, triggers violent, unexplained disturbances within the house and the “holiday” soon becomes the stuff of nightmares.
Jessie: Was it the setting of Anglesey that inspired you to write the ghost story?
Elizabeth: Yes – my father’s family hails from there and I spent much of my childhood staying with relatives in Anglesey. The whole island is steeped in history and legend. My auntie’s farm had a resident ghost in the barn plus the ghost of a Cavalier that was seen trudging across the field, and my great aunt’s home had three restless spirits, apparently, so I always associated their houses with supernatural activity!
At this point we decided to break to admire Tredegar House. The house is organised so that the visitors can interact with the displays. It was fun to sit at the table, set for dinner, and imagine the ghosts of the people walking the corridors. The portraits around the room gave us some excellent inspiration. We sat at the dining room table to finish our discussion.
Jessie: What have the reviewers said about your novel?
‘I received a copy of “Lay me to rest” in exchange for an honest review, and all I can say is that I really love it! It just keeps getting better. The story is beautifully written, sad, dark and full of nostalgia. I will definitely follow the author’s future work.’ Hannah K, Netgalley Reviewer
‘Let me start by saying this, if I ever find a mysterious box I would think before I opened it. This is an excellent addition to the paranormal and mystery suspense genre. I was glad when I started reading it that it wasn’t very late and it was still light outside; definitely gave me some chills. I love to be surprised when I am reading so E.A. Clark did an amazing job keeping me guessing from one page to the next. Annie is an amazingly strong female lead that I can’t wait to find out more about.’ Laurie Beemer, Goodreads
‘So…so creepy! The author wastes no time in setting up the action, without neglecting the environment. The description of the fields and cottages is so vivid that it feels like being there. More importantly, the cast of characters is excellent, since we can’t really see all the sides of everyone and some turns surprised me.’ Elisa, Goodreads
Jessie: I do not usually read ghost stories but I do like stories with a distinct atmosphere. Give me an extract of the story to tempt me to read the story.
Elizabeth: “I stared helplessly at the apparition; through the gloom, its body resembled the shimmering negative of an old photograph; but the eyes receded deep into their sockets, as black and fathomless as a calm lake.”
Jessie: The extract certainly invites the reader into the mystery and makes you shiver. I am now wondering what the apparition is and why it resembled a photograph negative. Can you tell me a little more about how the story draws in the audience?
Elizabeth: The main character, Annie, is at a mentally fragile point in her existence, and I wanted the reader to wonder initially whether the apparitions were a figment of her imagination. The apparently tranquil setting lures the audience into a false sense of security, so I think that as they become more absorbed in the story they start to feel more than a little unsettled!
Jessie: It must be challenging to absorb yourself in another world – you need a vivid imagination. How did you feel when you had finished writing your book, and did you miss any of the characters?
Elizabeth: Initially elated; then I kept turning the plot over in my mind and wondering if I should have changed anything! I did miss Annie and am planning a follow-up to show how she has moved on with her life.
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.
I wish my mum could have read the book – she passed away almost three years ago. She always hoped that I would pursue my childhood dream of becoming an author and I know that she would have been delighted to see me finally get into print. And she would have loved the book’s theme and setting.
Jessie: How long did it take to write the book, and was it a challenging writing journey?
Elizabeth: I actually started writing the book back in 2011 and then filed it away. I picked it up again last year after revisiting and thinking that maybe it was worth finishing! I suppose it probably took about two to three months to write altogether. I had days when I could rattle off a couple of thousand words with ease and then there were others when I sat staring into space and wondering how to proceed at that particular juncture – so yes, I suppose it was a challenge!
Jessie: Why should I keep your book in my handbag?
You’ll want to keep the book to hand – there are several momentous events throughout, so you’ll probably want to keep turning pages!
Jessie: What is the last sentence written in your writer’s notebook?
I tend to have lots of notes scribbled on random bits of paper tucked inside the notebook and in no decipherable order – the last one I came across said ‘I sat at the edge of the bed, twisting my fingers together nervously as I watched Leo perfecting the knot in his colourful tie before the bedroom mirror.‘ -: a self-prompt for the follow-up to ‘Lay Me to Rest’ – the book I’m currently working on has different characters and is in a completely different location, so I wanted to remind myself where I wish to begin when I eventually resume writing about Annie et al!
Jessie: What is the biggest challenge for an author?
Making your story stand out from the crowd! There are so many excellent novelists out there and the competition is fierce. It’s particularly challenging as a hitherto unknown author, as readers often stick with established writers with a proven track record.
Jessie: What is the best advice that you have received as a writer?
Never give up! Believe in yourself – don’t be put off by rejection letters and always remember, there may just be someone out there that will LOVE your work – one person’s trash is another’s treasure! Stick to your guns and it will pay off in the end. And make time to write every day – eventually it all adds up!
More about Elizabeth…
Elizabeth is passionate about animal welfare – she abhors animal cruelty and dreams of a world where one day the rights of animals will be taken as seriously as those of human beings.
…always about to embark on that diet and exercise regime – but the time never feels quite right – especially when there’s a particularly fine cake on offer!
…a perpetually anxious mother and grandmother!
The debut novel is released on 29th September. I haven’t read this novel but it sounds like it will have the reader on the edge of their seat. It looks like I will be making room for a spooky tale, in my handbag. The best of luck to Elizabeth with her debut novel.
During the last couple of months, I have been immersed in a virtual world of social media. Yesterday, my family insisted that I visited the real world of the Brecon Beacons.
Initially, I complained that it was another rainy day in Wales and it wasn’t worth braving a potential storm. I was happy to admire the colours of the garden, from my writing room, but the writing wasn’t flowing. Finally, I left my handbag at home, retrieved my walking gear and went to the Brecon Beacons. The beep, beep, beep of my phone was left behind as we drove into the heart of the impressive mountain range.
Always one to admire the cloudless blue sky, I was surprised by depth of the grey sky. I had been adamant that I needed the blue sky for some ‘blue sky thinking’, but I was wrong. I needed the reality of a dramatic landscape to chase away the writer’s block.
We stood in the landscape as the colours were dissolved by silver, grey and bronze tones. We discussed how the scene was changing before us, and how the moving clouds were like the curtains opening and closing on the stage. This very real experience made me aware that the weather re-writes the landscape in the same way that a writer changes the shades of meaning in a story.
Rather than staring at the computer screen for inspiration, or peering into the same garden – why not immerse yourself in the real world? It is good to hear the real tweets of the birds rather than the computer-generated tweets.
On arrival at the log cabin, we were charmed by the interior and greeted by a sparkling blue winter sea view.
Winter became spring, as I completed the final edits of my novel: You Can’t Go It Alone. A holiday in February is now a romantic memory, but I must share a secret I discovered in Cornwall.
As a Valentine’s Day gift, my husband planned a winter holiday to Cornwall. Severe weather warnings via every form of communication heralded the beginning of our adventure. Why worry about Siberia when you live in the UK, and Cornwall is always warmer?
On arrival at the log cabin, the interior charmed us then distracted us with sparkling sea view. Fairy lights adorned the archway above luxurious leather sofas. The pine interior filled with rugs, cushions and rocking chairs reminded me of Norwegian interiors in style magazines. A cute, bespoke kitchen contained everything required to cook grilled Dover Sole in a butter sauce. Cosy and warm in the cabin, we ignored the weather warnings broadcast on the television.
On the first day, we went to look at St Michael’s Mount, but it was closed. No worries, I wanted to visit the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, as I adore The Hepworth in Wakefield – well she was a Yorkshire lass. Alas, you guessed it, the museum was closed. Off next to Trengwainton Gardens but it was closed until Sunday. The bitter cold drove us back to the log cabin for the evening.
Glorious cliffs sculpted by time and nature: Land’s End
No one can close Land’s End, so we travelled to the famous landmark and planned to grab lunch there. Land’s End is accessed through an entrance you would find at a theme park – so it could be closed. We walked past the souvenir shops before we reached Land’s End. Glorious cliffs chiselled by the elements and reminiscent of Hepworth’s sculptures greeted us. Lunch in The First and Last Inn was not possible as it was closed. I wore two coats, two hats and a hood teamed with my waterproof trousers to keep out the arctic temperatures.
Mousehole is the ‘loveliest village in England’ according to DylanThomas.
Amused by the name ‘Mousehole’, we called at the village for a very late lunch. Quaint stone houses welcomed us in the sheltered harbour. We ate cheese sandwiches in a friendly coffee shop tucked away at the end of the village. Apparently, Dylan Thomas described Mousehole as ‘the loveliest village in England. And, there was an ice cream parlour called Jessie’s, so we ordered vanilla ice cream.
We stood in the amongst the silhouettes of people found in a Lowry painting.
Rejuvenated by our rest in Mousehole, we braved the cold to visit beaches. Golden white sand marked with endless footsteps greeted us at Sennen Cove. We rambled along the beach. Light showcased the beach in all its glory, and we stood in the amongst the silhouettes of people who had escaped from a Lowry painting. The next day we hiked around the coast in St Ives and marvelled at the magical beauty of the golden light. Sadly, our camera could not capture the texture of an artist’s brush.
We marvelled at the magical beauty of the light in St Ives
Winter is the best time to view the beaches of Cornwall. Forget the art galleries and tourist traps and enjoy nature’s treasures. Step onto the beaches and walk inside a painting to enjoy nature’s pallet. Snow fell as we drove home. Thankfully, the Severn Bridge remained open until we got home. Visiting Cornwall, in winter, felt like having the world to ourselves – an idyllic romantic winter paradise. Shh, don’t tell anyone…
The accidental viticulturists: Judith and Colin Dudley at Parva Farm Vineyard
People who follow their dreams make my heart sing: people who find their dreams accidentally make my heart sing and dance.
On moving in to Parva Farm, Judith and Colin discovered vines on the neglected, bracken infested land. The vines planted in 1979 survived, so they decided to cultivate them, without any prior knowledge of viticulture. The first yield, in 1998, produced fifty six bottles, then in 2006 they went on to produce eleven thousand bottles. We have marvelled as an abandoned vineyard has been brought to life to produce award winning wines.
They adapted their farmhouse to include a shop and wine tasting room.
Colin and Judith grow a variety of grapes including: Bacchus, Seyval Blanc, Muller Thurgan, Pinot Noir and Regent. They adapted their farmhouse to include a shop and wine tasting room. Tours of the vineyard, with excellent views of the abbey, are available for the more adventurous. There is always a warm welcome! We have visited Parva Farm Vineyard for two decades because we like to hear about the latest developments in their narrative. Their achievements seem like a dream, but behind the scenes, I am sure there is a great many ups and downs. Judith and Colin’s story has attracted visits from Countryfile and the Hairy Bikers. This delightful, industrious couple battled on quietly to become the first vineyard in the area. The vineyard, on the hillside, can be seen for miles and is testimony to their determination.
We have marvelled as an abandoned vineyard has been brought to life to produce award winning wines.
Nowadays, Judith and Colin tend the vines and keep sheep on their land – they have exceeded their dreams. These accidental viticulturists have become experts at nurturing the vines, but they accept that some years one will have bad years: they cannot control the Welsh weather
Authors can take inspiration from vine growers. The story is nurtured, pruned and cultivated.
Award winning sparkling wines at Parva Farm Vineyard
Sometimes the narrative flourishes like the healthy vine, but on other days there are too many off shoots to the narrative. On other occasions there is a drought of ideas. It is essential to keep working and chasing the dream, as there may be a dream waiting around the corner.
If one is struggling, then you could take a break and visit some people who can infect you with their enthusiasm. As a reward for your labour, you could reach for a bottle of the Regent wine. It tastes of cherry pie and vanilla and will warm your heart.
I confess, a visit to Tintern and the vineyards did contribute to the inspiration of my fictional Welsh village of Delfryn
I confess, a visit to Tintern and the vineyards did contribute to the inspiration of my fictional Welsh village of Delfryn. In my novel You Can’t Go It Alone, Olivia and Marcus walk to a vineyard and taste some wine.
‘As Olivia and Marcus trekked along the river, they searched for a sight of the vineyard. Sunlight danced on the river and caressed the trees. Signs of moss and water damage clung to the row of houses on the opposite side of the road. The spring sun glowed on Olivia’s skin, as she stopped to glance towards the proud Delfryn Abbey. Olivia turned around to point out the vineyard on the hill. Neat rows of naked vines yearned for the heat of the summer sun. The steep hill leading up to the vineyard distracted from her favourite view of the village. Buoyed by the promise of wine tasting, Marcus rushed ahead while Olivia struggled to breathe. The gravel crunched as an old pickup truck climbed up the hill in front of them; a cloud of dust made Olivia cough until she almost fell over.’
The young Marcus, in my novel tastes the wine and his observations remind me of the Tintern wine.
As a reward for your labour, you could reach for a bottle of the Regent wine. It tastes of cherry pie and vanilla and will warm your heart.
‘The Seyval Blanc is citrusy, light and refreshing. I prefer the Pinot Noir and the flavours of red berries. Oh, and the hint of vanilla.’
Cheers, Judith and Colin and thank you for the inspiration!
I urge you to visit Parva Farm to sample Welsh wines, sparkling wines and cider – you won’t be disappointed.
During a visit to Singapore, I arranged to meet Ivy at the East Coast Lagoon Food Village. We sat beneath a canape in the busy food hall. Although warm, there was a refreshing sea breeze. The aroma of fish oil, garlic and seafood combined to make my stomach rumble: the choice was overwhelming. I wandered from one stall to the next unable to make my choice. I ordered a prawn noodle dish and Ivy chose seafood laksa. She wore white shorts and a halter neck lime green top and her bag was a leopard print mini backpack.
Jessie: Ivy, tell me a little about yourself. Where did you grow up? How did this inspire your writing?
Ivy: I was born and raised in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. The house that we moved into was built in 1949. The house had a room covered from floor to ceiling in bookshelves and lined with really books (classics, modern classics, fiction, non-fiction, all pre-1979) that the previous owner had left behind. I started to read them whenever I was bored. My mother was a school teacher and she used to bring home about 10 books every fortnight from her school library. I read them all too. I also remember my mother taking me to join a library when I was 8. This was the Sultan Ismail Public Lending Library in Johor Bahru. I absolutely loved reading and could not stop. Books were great friends and I grew up with them and they with me.
Jessie: Growing up in Malaysia then studying in Middlesex must have presented a contrasting experience. What were the main differences?
Ivy: Middlesex University was an eye-opening experience. I went in there thinking I was going to be Jane Austen, Charles Dickens, George Eliot et al but Middlesex made me who I am today. I found my writing voice there. I was given a reading list consisting of books I would never read in a million years. I became aware that I could and do have a totally unique narrative. I became Ivy Ngeow the writer. And this narrative was what has made me stand out amongst 1500 entrants to win the Middlesex University Press Literary Prize of 2005.
Hand drawn by the author: Ivy Ngeow
Jessie: I’m aware you have won awards for your writing – many congratulations. Tell me about Cry of the Flying Rhino. I am also intrigued by the title.
Ivy: Cry of the Flying Rhino is a modern crime novel set in the railway town of Segamat in Malaysia and the Borneo jungles. Chinese GP Benjie has to discover his tattooed indigenous wife’s secrets, and true identity, after he was forced to marry her by her foster father. The title is a nickname for a famous endangered species. You will have to read it to find out what the flying rhino is and why it cries.
Jessie: How has the book been received by the reviewers?
Ivy: I am so pleased with the reviews. These two are from Amazon:
“This book is an absolute delight. Fantastic plot, wonderful insights along the way, entertaining variations in perspectives.”
The dark, misty, mysterious Borneo jungle where treasures and dangers await at every opportunity
“Unique insight into a mysterious culture. If you want to learn about non-Western cultures, the old gods and traditions associated with them, birds and plants of Borneo, the effect of colonisation, then read this book. It has all that and much more.”
Here are other reviews:
“…the dogged doings of vastly unique characters – personages from a large scope of social and ethnic spectrums, individuals whose stories we increasingly crave as we speed toward the at once incredible and inevitable intersection of the novel’s five main arcs. Anyone impressed, anyone imprinted upon and inspired by Lalwani, Roy, Chatterjee, Burgess, Lowry, or Orwell, will be correspondingly affected by Ngeow.”
– Jason S Polley, Associate Professor, Department of English, Hong Kong Baptist University.
Tattoo children to make sure the art never dies
“When reading this vivid and vibrant novel, I am immediately thrust back into the jungles, the small towns, the sweaty heat, the barrage of animal noises, the pungent smells and tropical odours, Ngeow has so well depicted throughout.”
– Vaughan Rapatahana, poet, literary critic, essayist and novelist
Jessie: Please read a brief extract from your book.
Ivy: ‘A careless suburban one night stand lands Benjie in trouble. He’s forced to marry a wealthy Scottish landowner’s adopted daughter, Talisa. When two Iban men arrive from the jungle looking for her, Benjie wonders who she really is.’ Jessie: Wow! That sounds very intriguing. How did you feel when you had finished writing your book, and did you miss any of the characters?
Ivy: I was surprised particularly when an unexpected plot twist came about and I was excited to be able to work that in. I was also sad that it had ended, and I wanted to keep going with the next phase of the characters’ lives. I missed Pastor Bernard most of all. I still think of him every day even though years have passed since I wrote the book. He is British and has been living abroad working on the mission for years. He is an amateur botanist. Although he is clever, kind and amusing, he occasionally has a sharp tongue. He is firm when he has to be, and he would not hesitate to go out of the way for someone in need. He welcomes little luxuries or acts of kindness and generosity from the congregation he preaches to, but he is not keen on big shows of ostentation because he is very used to survival in the jungle and the hard way of life. In all, he is very much like me.
Mushrooms in the Borneo rainforest: do you know if they’re edible or poisonous?
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.
Ivy: My family and close friends have read the book. However, I would be keen for Felicia Yap, author of Yesterday, to read it as she is Malaysian.
Ivy Ngeow
Jessie: Why should I keep your book in my handbag?
Ivy: It has a smart, dark and mysterious cover, it has a great title, it will go with most outfits and it’s thin.
Jessie: What is the last sentence written in your writer’s notebook?
Ivy: Today, we are filming on a yacht. This is not any film. This is a film that should not be made.
Jessie: What is the biggest challenge for an author?
Ivy: To keep going, keep trying and not giving up.
Jessie: What is the best advice that you have received as a writer?
Ivy: Read, read, read. Read anything and everything. Reading improves maturity, experience, exploration of ideas and reading is the only tool for writing that you’ll need.
About Ivy
Ivy Ngeow, award-winning author of Cry of the Flying Rhino (out now) and Heart of Glass (out soon). She was born and raised in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. Her fiction has been published in many journals including the Straits Times, Marie Claire, and broadcast on the BBC World Service. She has an MA from Middlesex University where she won the University Press Literary Prize in 2005 and her debut novel Cry of the Flying Rhino won the 2016 International Proverse Prize.
Ivy’s new novel:
Heart of Glass is a dark tale about obsession, greed and music set in 1980s Chicago and Macau. It is a pacy literary crime noir thriller exploring the darkness in human nature, written in first person narrative.
On arrival at Restaurant James Sommerin, we ordered a good Pinot Noir. We noted that the ambiance was calm, staff attentive and the other guests were very well attired.
Feeling relaxed, in our jeans and T shirts, we discussed the merits of the food; each dish looked elegant like a work of art. Much to my husband’s dismay, I started to make notes about the food. The guests on the neighbouring table were intrigued by the notebook. Clearly, I wasn’t a restaurant critic as I was wearing jeans. We sipped more of the wine that was so beautifully flavoured with summer fruits that it could have been a soft drink.
The delicious food improved with each course. Buoyed by this tasting experience, I was determined to write an analysis of each dish. I scribbled furiously between each morsel and took photographs of the dishes. More delicious wine was poured into a glass that could happily home several goldfish.
Alas, I cannot read the scribbles in my notebook. Throughout the notebook, I had repeated the words ‘great textures’ and ‘explosion of flavour’ albeit in various styles of handwriting. ‘Desert’ was underlined enthusiastically. Did I go to the Sahara to eat pudding? Other words were incomplete and I hope that they didn’t run off onto the beautifully laundered table cloth. I circled ‘black pudding’ purée several times because I didn’t have my highlighter pen. I do remember that I was offended by the puréed texture but I am a northerner.
Undeterred by the black pudding, I did note down Picasso’s poetry on a plate. Obviously, Pinot Noir should come with a cliché warning on the label. Mysteriously, the notebook has splashes of wine and food inside of it but I will keep it as a tribute to the Picasso chef.
James Sommerin is a chef and an artist. The restaurant was like a theatre of food and next time I will dress up for the occasion. The food was so good that I can forgive the corruption of the black pudding texture. I will wish on a star for the restaurant!
‘Lay Me to Rest’ is the story of the newly-widowed, pregnant Annie’s attempt to overcome her depression, by renting a remote cottage in Anglesey. Her arrival, however, triggers violent, unexplained disturbances within the house and the “holiday” soon becomes the stuff of nightmares.
Why should I keep your book in my handbag?
You’ll want to keep the book to hand – there are several momentous events throughout, so you’ll probably want to keep turning pages!
Extract
Again, the same line, yet louder and more persistent. It seemed to reverberate round the walls. I was in no doubt now that the words had been uttered with venom; that someone – or something – meant me harm. My breath came in shallow, rapid gasps. I was filled with a feeling of unreserved dread.
As my eyes grew accustomed to the dimness, I could discern a silhouette, apparently seated at the foot of my bed. I opened my mouth to scream but the power of speech seemed to have deserted me. I could do no more than watch in sheer terror, as the mattress rose slightly and a nebulous figure drew to its full height, releasing a rush of icy air. I could not – dared not– conceive of what might ensue. I was petrified.
I stared helplessly at the apparition; through the gloom, its body resembled the shimmering negative of an old photograph; but the eyes receded deep into their sockets, as black and fathomless as a calm lake. My stomach lurched as the spectre brushed past me, only to vanish into the wall. I sat, rigid with fear, hardly daring to breathe. My heart pounded so loudly in my chest that it seemed to fill my whole head.
The tension shines through in this extract and involves the reader. Elizabeth’s debut novel is receiving very positive reviews. This is a gripping thriller; perfect for fans of Kerry Wilkinson, Sarah Wray and Stella Duffy.
E. A. Clark
The novel is currently on offer. Find out more about the book at:
Elizabeth will talk more about her book in an interview on Friday. This ghostly book is released on Friday, 29th September. Warning! You won’t be able to put this book down.
Please see my blog for more articles, book reviews, author interviews and adventures at jessiecahalin.com
I love reading the books in my Handbag Gallery, but sometimes I need a sweet treat. During the glorious apple season, I love to bake an Apple Soufflé. Warning! This is heaven and highly addictive. I would like to share twelve steps to heaven with you.
Soufflés are often considered to be the pinnacle of home baking and guaranteed to win you a lot of fans and happy friends. The most difficult aspect of making a good soufflé is in making a very thick custard stirred with a drop of patience. If you can get the hang of this, then you should be able make a great soufflé every time.
Ingredients
250 ml whole / full-fat milk
100g caster sugar
40g plain flour
3 medium-sized apples
juice of 1 Lemon
4 eggs
1 vanilla pod (or vanilla extract if don’t have)
6 ramekins
softened butter for ramekins
First make the custard. Add the milk and 50g of the caster sugar to a pan and heat. The milk needs to be hot but not boiling and check that it doesn’t get a skin on it.
As the milk is heating, separate 2 eggs. Keep the egg whites aside in a bowl for use later. In a different bowl add the 2 egg yolks and the other 2 eggs, the flour and the seeds from the vanilla pod. Beat together well with a wooden spoon. Tip: chopping board, split the vanilla pod with a large sharp knife. Turn the knife slightly on its side and flatten the pod out and the scrape the seeds out. Put the used pod into a jar with sugar in and it makes a beautifully fragrant and flavoured sugar for future use!
Pour hot milk into mixture of two egg yolks, two eggs and flour
When the mixture is smooth, pour in the hot milk into the bowl with the mixture and mix well. Then pour this back into the pan and onto your cooker on a medium heat. Keep stirring. Take care to not over-heat the pan as this can cause it to split. Stir until it becomes very thick, stiff but still smooth, without lumps.
Take care to not over-heat the pan as this can cause it to split.
Tip: If you are unsure or nervous turn the heat down and stir for longer. Stirring continuously will help stop lumps and the custard splitting. When done leave aside to cool for about 30 minutes.
Whilst it is cooling, peel and core the apples. Dice into very small pieces and put into a small bowl and cover with the lemon juice.
Pre heat your oven to 190 degrees C / 375 F or Gas Mark 5. No fan required.
Whisk up the two egg whites until soft peaks
Take the bowl with the egg whites, that have been set aside, and add the remaining 50g caster sugar. Whisk the egg whites until you have stiff, glossy peaks. This takes a few minutes.
Get the ramekins and wipe the insides with some of the softened butter. Tip: I usually find this easier with a small piece of greaseproof paper.
Stir until it becomes very thick, stiff but still smooth, without lumps. Tip: If you are unsure or nervous turn the heat down and stir for longer.
Add the diced apples to the cool custard and mix in.
Then add the egg whites to this custard and apple mixture and fold in. Tip: Add in a 3rd of the egg whites and mix it in vigorously first. Then add the remainder and then fold this in more gently with a spoon to keep more of the air in.
Spoon the mixture into the ramekins, up to the rim. Smooth of if needed with either your fingers or a knife.
Place the ramekins onto an oven tray and bake for 15 minutes, until risen and firm.
Souffle Heaven
Remove from the oven and serve immediately in the ramekins.
I confess, I abandoned my writing to watch the Great British Bake Off. I fancied my chances at writing a book of recipes. It took quite a lot of time to make the soufflés, take the photos and write the recipe. I hope you will try the recipe. Please share any of your baking successes. Happy baking!
Ian looked so relaxed as we chatted, soaked up the sun and enjoyed the sea view.
Shirley Valentine made me giggle in my twenties, and now I am old enough to be Shirley. I still dream of sipping wine, seated at a table, with a sea view, in Greece. Imagine my delight when Ian Wilfred invited me to Greece to discuss his new novel. I joined him on his island of Holkamos. We drank wine and ate a marvellous picnic of feta cheese olives, tomatoes and stuffed vine leaves. Ian looked so relaxed as we chatted, soaked up the sun and enjoyed the sea view. He woreshorts polo shirt and flipflops, and his new novel, Secrets We Left In Greece, was stored in a black bag.
Jessie: Ian, it is great to finally meet you. You provided the very first photograph for my Handbag Gallery. You have written two books since then. Please tell me about your latest book Secrets we left in Greece.
Norfolk is wonderful but holidays in Greece, with my husband and family, inspired the setting of the latest novel.
Ian: It was a pleasure to make the connection via the Handbag Gallery. My photograph was on a local Norfolk beach, as I just love the sea. Norfolk is wonderful but holidays in Greece, with my husband and family, inspired the setting of the latest novel. It is a story of old secrets and new memories on the Greek island of Holkamos.
Miriam had something on her mind and it needed sorting. What she had planned wouldn’t go down well with her daughter Heather and Granddaughter Amy, but there was no going back; the tickets were booked she had to face the island again.
Jessie: It sounds like a fabulous escape. Why should your readers be tempted to buy this novel?
You only get one chance to live your life. Escape to my Greek island Holkamos with Miriam, Heather and Amy; support them on their journey of self- discovery
Ian: You only get one chance to live your life. Escape to my Greek island Holkamos with Miriam, Heather and Amy; support them on their journey of self- discovery. Pack your passport, settle down in the sunshine and listen in to their secrets. My characters learn life is not a rehearsal, and it’s time to move on. Sometimes, you need to escape to a paradise island in order to remove the rose-tinted glasses.
Jessie: What do the reviewers say? Were they intrigued to find out the secrets?.
Ian: Have a look at the reviews here in Netgallery.
‘Solid chick lit…it doesn’t take itself too seriously. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry and say, ‘Oh no! Definitely a fun weekend read.’ Shirley Anne, Reviewer
‘Love fiction set in Greece. This was a light, enjoyable read.’ Anita T, Reviewer
‘Amusing, believable characters on a voyage of discovery.’
*** Ian retrieved the novel from his black bag. The vibrant front cover looked so inviting.
Ian: ‘Paul they were happy times- no one died, and I have lots of special memories of my holidays on Holkamos, I just don’t want to go back, I’ve moved on from that’.
‘What’s that, Amy? Why do you need to move on from something that brings back happy memories what happened?’
Jessie: How did you feel when you had finished the novel? Did you miss any of the characters?
We drank wine and ate a marvellous picnic of feta cheese olives, tomatoes and stuffed vine leaves
Ian: Jessie, I loved writing it and I felt really good. Once I finished, I couldn’t wait to send it off to my editor, Nancy. I sort of missed the character Cleo. In all my other four books, my main characters have been over fifty, but Cleo was only twenty. I wanted to take her story further. You never know, I might revisit Cleo one day if she invited me back to the island.
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.
Ian: Just someone who chooses to read it. I don’t give my books to family or friends to read, but if they want to that’s lovely but very scary. I shout and promote them on Twitter but have never asked a blogger to read because that’s even scarier.
Jessie: Why should I keep your book in my handbag?
Ian: This book is an essential edition to a British handbag as it will give you sunshine on a grey day. Travelling to Holkamos will chase away those rainy-day blues, and you’ll be in the company of great friends. Each time you read this book, you’ll be tempted to open a bottle of Greek wine.
Jessie: What is the last sentence written in your writer’s notebook?
The last sentence in my notes for Secrets We Left In Greece is – take out the middle H from Holkhamos and call the island Holkamos as that sounds better. On Sunday, I wrote: ‘Olive Sarah or Billy ?’
Jessie: What is the biggest challenge for an author?
Ian: My biggest challenge is TIME. I write and work full-time. Family and friends are fed up with me saying I would love an eight day week. Have you got an extra day of the week in your handbag?
Jessie: Very funny! I probably have more than a day’s worth of junk in my handbag. What is the best advice that you have received as a writer?
Ian: This is easy. Write every day even if it’s only 200 words, as this keeps the story fresh in your head. Read and watch everything Milly Johnson has to say about writing. Milly Johnson’s Author Tips are the very best.
Ian Wilfred is 50+ but in his head he will always be 39. He lives on the Norfolk coast with his husband and west highland terrier. His perfect day would be to walk the dog on the beach, drink lots of coffee and write, but in real life after walking the dog, Ian goes off to work.
His debut novel ‘Putting Right The Past’ was published in 2013 and set on the island of Tenerife. ‘The Little Terrace of Friendships’ was published in March 2017, and Ian’s third book ‘A Secret Visitor to Saltmarsh Quay’ was published in November 2017.
You can follow Ian on Twitter at @ianwilfred39 (he will always be 39).
Chatting to Ian made the sunshine. If you fancy an escape then buy his latest book. Are you ready to find out some secrets? Promise you will leave the secrets in Holkamos.
Lizzie wore a very glamorous blue and white blouse and jeans.
Lizzie Lamb’s blue VW camper attracted admirers at Urquhart Castle, Scotland. The engine purred obediently, as Lizzie expertly manoeuvred the vintage beauty into a parking space, overlooking Loch Ness. Excited to see the van featured in Boot Camp Bride, I patted the gleaming bonnet.
The door opened, Lizzie emerged and invited me inside. She wore a very glamorous blue and white blouse and jeans.
Lizzie Lamb’s blue VW camper parked at Urquhart Castle.
While she prepared some tea in the compact kitchen, I opened a tin of Scottish shortbread, with a picture of Nessie on the tin, and managed to drop biscuits on the pristine table. Laughing, Lizzie helped me to clear up the mess. A copy of Lizzie’s novel, ‘Girl at the Castle’, invited me to peer inside. Lizzie’s books are always so beautifully designed and presented in a distinctive lilac colour, they match perfectly with my handbag.
Jessie: All of your books look like tempting gifts of lilac loveliness for the reader. If I open the book, then I will start to read it. Tell me about ‘Girl in the Castle’.
Lizzie: Fate takes Henriette Bruar to a Scottish castle where the laird’s family are in mourning over a tragedy which happened many years before. Cue a phantom piper, a lost Jacobite treasure, and a cast of characters who – with Henri’s help, encourage the family to confront the past and move on. As part of the healing process, Henriette falls in love with the laird’s son, Keir, and they achieve the happy ending they both deserve.
Jessie: The plot and setting sound thrilling. I know you write in a very natural and witty style. Can you tempt us with a couple of words from ‘Girl in the Castle’?
A beautifully designed novel in a handbag.
Lizzie: ‘Giving a superstitious shiver, Henriette acknowledged there were subtle forces at work in this ancient castle. Forces which wanted her and Keir to be together, forever.’
Jessie: This is so tempting! You craft the words so artfully. I know you have been longlisted for the Exeter Novel Prize. What did the reviewers say?
Lizzie opened up a folder on her laptop and read some reviews. I was sure I heard the distant sound of bagpipes, but Lizzie didn’t comment.
Lizzie: Ah, here they are. I’ll read three reviews.
Can you see Nessie?
‘I loved all the many elements in this novel: The location, history, slightly paranormal atmosphere, love lost and found, and a missing treasure. Not to forget gorgeous Keir MacKenzie, a hero to swoon over.’
‘This convincing romance beginning in conflict and distrust is set in stunning scenery which comes to life through Henri’s experiences and Keir’s enthusiasm for his birth right. A great read!’
‘Girl in the Castle is romantic, witty, interesting and you don’t want it to finish. I enjoyed all the characters – and the storyline. I laughed, gasped, and wished I were Henriette! I love the way Lizzie is knowledgeable about Scotland and shares this with the reader in a heartfelt way. A romantic novel with substance and wit – hurry up and write us the next one, please.’
Jessie: As expected the reviews wax lyrical about your writing. Having read one of your novels, I get the sense that you are very attached to the characters and this brings them to life so beautifully. Did you miss the characters of ‘Girl in the Castle’ when you had finished writing the novel?
Lizzie: When I finish a novel it’s always hard to say goodbye to the characters. Many of my readers feel the same and often ask for a sequel. However, although I miss the characters and the setting ,once I type THE END, that’s it for me. I leave the novel so that readers can imagine what would happen next . . . I think it has been hardest to say goodbye to Henri and Keir. And – mad writer alert – I still have conversations with them in my head and I know exactly what they’re doing now. I felt the same about Charlee and Rafa in Boot Camp Bride and Fliss and Ruairi in Tall, Dark and Kilted.
Lizzie Lamb viewing Castle Stalker: the inspiration for Girl in the Castle.
Lizzie opened a collection of photographs in a gallery. She left me to scroll through the images while she refilled the teapot. I was sure I heard the bagpipes again as I studied the photos.
Lizzie: We spend a month each year in Scotland. Castle Stalker on Loch Linnhe, near Oban is the inspiration behind Girl in the Castle.
Jessie: Of course, I have seen this iconic image on the front cover. I’d love to visit the castle and read all your novels. Who would you like to read your novels?
Lizzie: I would choose Jilly Cooper. I adored her earlier books: Emily, Prudence etc. and her bonk busters: Polo, Riders et al. I would like Jilly to read my books because that would be my way of saying: ‘thank you for inspiring me to become a writer, and for making it all seem possible’. If I’m allowed a second, more practical choice, I would thank Amazon for giving indie authors the means of getting their books ‘out there’ to a wide audience of readers.
Jessie: As an independent author, I notice your wealth of images and campaigns. Where do you get the photos from?
Lizzie: As a writer and blogger I am very aware of infringing copyright so I have subscribed to a couple of websites where I pay and download images: https://www.123rf.comhttps://www.dreamstime.comhttps://unsplash.com Other than that, I take my own photos with my iPhone wherever I go. A word of warning, don’t assume that images you see on Pinterest etc. are copyright free, always double check before uploading anything onto your sites. If in doubt, credit the artist/photographer.
Although, it was drizzling and grey outside, we decided to enjoy the Scottish weather. Meandering along the shores of Loch Ness, we both joked about meeting up with Monster.
Jessie: Tell me, why should I keep your novel in my handbag?
Lizzie: My book would be the ideal companion when you’re feeling at a low ebb because I write feel good books, set in wonderful locations, with humorous secondary characters and, most importantly, a hero to fall in love with. If you want a break from the usually run of the mill romances, try one of mine. Oh, and bring a large handbag, my paperbacks are 9”x5” and need lots of space.
Jessie: Don’t worry, I am always hunting for a new handbag. I think a tartan handbag is called for, after this trip. What is the last sentence written in your writer’s notebook?
Lizzie: Dialogue between the hero (Logan) and his grandfather written as bullet points (which is how I generally write dialogue in my first draft).
– do you love the girl?
– I guess I do, but . . .
– then what are you waiting for. Go get her. As the poet said: faint heart never won fair lady.
While Lizzie read her dialogue, I noticed a mysterious shadow in the water, and the skirl of bagpipes sounded closer. I think a certain Nessie may have been listening to the story. Neither of us commented because we just knew… Lizzie removed a delicate whisky flask from her handbag and we celebrated with a wee dram. Slainte!
Jessie: What is the biggest challenge for an author?
Lizzie: Writing books has never been an issue, my head is teeming with ideas for future novels. The hard bit is getting my books to the notice of a wider public and finding new readers. I would love to get my books in supermarkets etc. but I know that won’t happen without my being a contracted author. If I was contracted to one of the ‘Big Five’ publishers I’d probably have to write books in genres I wouldn’t enjoy. So, its Catch-22 for me. I would like more time to write and spend less time on social media, but without social media I wouldn’t have achieved the sales I have.
Jessie: What is the best advice that you have received as a writer?
Lizzie: Stop endlessly polishing the first three chapters and a synopsis to send to agents and publishers. You might find that once the novel is completed you jettison the first few chapters in any case. Finish the whole novel, edit it and then polish it to send out to agents/publishers (if that’s the route you want to take). Failing that, publish it yourself – but remember, time, tide and the whims of publishers/agents wait for no man. By the time you write that great novel of yours, trends will have changed and your novel won’t be what agents/publishers are looking for.
Jessie: This interview has inspired me to plan a trip to Scotland, but my Scottish neighbour is always warning me about the midges.
We discussed Girl in the Castle, drank tea and ate Scottish shortbread.
Lizzie: The received wisdom is that you are ‘pretty safe’ in late May/ early June but the wee beasties are bad in July and August. Having said that, if May is very warm, the eggs hatch and they come early. We’ve never been bothered by them and I’ve received worse bites in our garden in the summer.
Jessie: That’s reassuring. Where’s the best place to begin a tour?
Lizzie: Edinburgh or Inverness make great centres to tour from if you’ve never been to Scotland before. Fewer midges on that coast, too. We love the west coast but it is much wetter (and more midges). Stirling is also a good centre as you can have some fantastic days out exploring the Trossachs. When you get a feel for those parts of Scotland you can head for the ‘wilder parts’ on another visit.
Lizzie showed me collection of photos. Ardvreck Castle, Assynt Geo Park Nth West Scotland, Achnasheen nr Kinlochewe, island in middle of Lake Maree, Argyll and Bute
Jessie: Thanks for the advice. I am going to stock up on your novels then plan another trip to Scotland.
About Lizzie
Lizzie: If you have a dream – go for it. Life is not a rehearsal After teaching my 1000th pupil and working as a deputy head teacher in a large primary school, I decided it was time to leave the chalk face and pursue my first love: writing. In 2006 I joined the Romantic Novelists? Association’s New Writers? Scheme, honed my craft and wrote Tall, Dark and Kilted (2012), quickly followed a year later by Boot Camp Bride (2013) and Scotch on the Rocks (2015) – finalist, The Exeter Novel Prize.
Lizzie is hardworking, creative and focused on writing the best book she can. She loves sharing her stories and ideas with readers, new and old. She gets a real buzz when readers tell her that when they turned the last page of her novel they feel bereft and she should hurry up and write another.
I first stumbled on Lizzie’s books when searching for another great reading escape. Thrilled at Lizzie’s ability to inspire comedy, I downloaded all of her novels. Her Scottish books motivated me to plan a holiday in Scotland. Lizzie is great fun and her love of writing shines through her novels.
Lizzie says: “when I’m not writing – I’m dreaming”
I had the pleasure of visiting Yorkshire Sculpture Park last week. It is an open-air art gallery, set in the grounds of an eighteenth-century mansion. The landscaped gardens work together with the sculptures to create an amazing creative harmony.
There is such a variety of sculptures and each one inspires questions. Indeed, it is amazing the way in which perfect strangers are happy to discuss the sculptures without worrying about their interpretations. Perhaps the visitors feel uninhibited as they are not confined by the walls of gallery that echoes with knowledge. Who knows?’
During the walk, we stumbled on many people from different nationalities. An Australian woman told me that she had been ‘startled’ by a wonderful sculpture of a woman’s head. We agreed that the spirit of the woman seems to beckon you. From a distance, the sculpture looks like a projected image – prompting: is she real or imaginary? As you approach, the sculpture is flat – like the silhouette on a stamp. It is a beautiful form that seemed to appeal to women rather than men, on that day. Despite the grey sky, the light was adding a mystical quality that gave the sculpture an air of confidence. What this suggesting something about the modern woman?
Further into the walk, we were greeted by Highland cattle. These creatures were so still, and at ease with the visitors, that we wondered if they were sculptures. We also found a dead tree with ancient looking bark and a very twisted form. Had the tree been left there to demonstrate how natural objects can also be sculpted by the elements? We were having this debate when another visitor overheard and said, ‘What a load of arty farty nonsense!’ This brought us completely down to earth and reminded me of how everything is open to interpretation.
Still laughing at the comments, we found some steps that were carved into the earth paving a way to some open woodland. I decided that the steps were a sculpture but my husband was sceptical at this point; he had been influenced by our fellow Yorkshire folk. A plaque marked the spot as if to reassure me. It felt as if someone was presenting a hopeful message about the climb. Pardon the pun, but I went a step further and commented that to me they represented the struggle for independent authors. But that was my interpretation at that point in time: I was influenced by my emotions, experience, the weather and, of course, ‘arty farty nonsense’.
The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is a wonderful place to visit. I wonder if you would be able to spot the sculptures that instigated our discussions? Would you agree with the interpretations? Did someone deliberately construct a place when art can be read according to mood, weather and other factors? I don’t know the answer to this but invite you to have a look. Perhaps some of the questions should be placed next to the sculptures? Maybe, there will be a sculpture of a handbag in the future, or possibly a sculpture constructed of books.
Following the visit, I was brimming with questions and ideas. Reading the sculptures inspired my own writing, and reminded me that it is so important to take some time for reflection. I placed picture postcards of the sculptures in my handbag, rather than books. However, I know that I will return to ask more questions and to find a suitable reading spot – or maybe several.
Ali Baba and Hussain Ali sharing a bowl of mulberries
I was intrigued when Mary Smith asked me if she could present an extract about Afghan food. Always keen to learn more about food and other cultures, I invited Mary to present an extract from No More Mulberries. The feast of food is a treat for the senses.
This extract from No More Mulberries comes at the start of the book. Scots-born Miriam, her Afghan husband Dr Iqbal and the two children are finishing their evening meal. Miriam and Iqbal are arguing because he has arbitrarily cancelled the English classes she teaches to some of the village boys.
Mary Smith’s book, No More Mulberries
Extract:
Iqbal’s eyes narrowed and his voice was cool. ‘The subject is closed.’
About to protest, Miriam became aware the two children were still sitting in the room. For once, Ruckshana had fallen silent, gazing round-eyed at her father. Farid’s head was bowed and she couldn’t see his expression, but knew his face would have the closed, tight look it assumed whenever there the possibility of an argument. She’d wait until the children were in bed before continuing this discussion. Hoping to dispel the tension in the room she rose to her feet, saying, ‘Come on, Farid, you clear the plates while I bring the toot.’
Mantu
The children whooped as she placed a large basin heaped with a pyramid of mulberries – white, red, purple – on the cloth. Washed in icy cold well water the berries glistened like jewels in the light of the oil lamps. Everyone gathered round, busy fingers searching expertly for the choicest fruit. At last, Miriam sat back. ‘My favourite, favourite, fruit. I wish they were in season all year round. I’ll put some up to dry tomorrow. They’re not the same dried, though, with their chewy textures and …’ she groped for the word she wanted, shrugged, ‘dustiness. Right, you two,’ she continued, pointing at Ruckshana and Farid in turn, ‘hands and faced washed before you get a story.’
‘I’ll get them ready for bed and read to them,’ Iqbal said. ‘I don’t need to go out tonight.’ She gave him a fleeting smile in outward acceptance of what she understood was a peace offering, though inwardly she still seethed. It would take more than a bedtime story to make peace.
End of Extract
When I lived in Afghanistan I, like Miriam, loved mulberries and was always sorry when their short season ended, though by then it was time for apricots and peaches. It really made me understand the meaning of eating seasonally. Besides, with such a great variety of things to eat it was no hardship not to have apricots in December – fresh ones, that is, there were always dried ones, which were delicious soaked and poached and served with yoghurt for breakfast.
Ash prepared for cooking and the nan fresh from the tandoor. The heat in the tandoor is fearsome.
In No More Mulberries, Miriam worked in the remote, mountainous region of Hazara Jat, as I did. The daily fare is simple: rice with lentils, yoghurt and sometimes ash, which is handmade pasta. Afghanistan was on the Silk Route so benefited from fusion cuisine long before it was fashionable here. The pasta is served with quroot, a rock-hard sour cheese made from buttermilk which is re-hydrated into a sauce and nan, baked in the tandoor. The heat in the tandoor is fearsome. When the weather is cold children sit with their feet dangling inside to warm them – I was horrified to find my three-year-old doing it.
Kabuli rice: rice cooked with lamb and topped with raisins, almonds and strips of carrot, vegetable dishes and firni a pudding made with milk and corn flour and heavily sweetened.
Shurwa is a meat-based soup (chicken or goat) into which we broke our bread – like I used to do with tomato soup when I was a kid – and once it was all nicely mushed, another piece of bread is used as a spoon.
Afghans love entertaining and at a dinner party, a minimum of seven dishes is served, including kabuli (sometimes seen as qabuli) rice cooked with lamb and topped with raisins, almonds and strips of carrot, vegetable dishes and firni a pudding made with milk and corn flour and heavily sweetened. I so admired how the women (often, it has to be said, helped by the men), working in the most primitive conditions, on a mud-constructed stove, smoke billowing around the kitchen produced these dishes, all cooked to perfection, all hot at the same time.
One of my favourite dishes – perhaps because it is easily reproduced at home – is banjan-sia borani.
In the northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif people came from all over Afghanistan, bringing their own regional and tribal specialities. Little leek-filled dumplings are delicious as is mantu, a dish of steamed dumplings filled with minced beef and onions, topped with a yogurt sauce. One of my favourite dishes – perhaps because it is easily reproduced at home – is banjan-sia borani. This is egg-plant (aubergine) slices fried and served with cooked tomatoes, topped with a sour cream and yoghurt garlicky sauce and dried mint.
I still remember the tantalizing aroma of those lamb kebabs being cooked on street grills.
And kebabs! I still remember the tantalizing aroma of those lamb kebabs being cooked on street grills. Afghan sheep have what’s known as dumba – a fat tail – and pieces of this fat are interspersed with chunks of lamb on the skewers to add flavour. The kebabs were served inside round nan breads, which soaked up the delicious juices. I found sheep testicle kebabs particularly tasty, possibly because I’d eaten them before I knew what the succulent softness was.
This is a tiny taster of the varied foods on offer in Afghanistan. And yes, the most memorable meal I had was in the home of a very poor family. He had leprosy and we’d gone to give him his supply of medicines. The rules of hospitality meant he had to feed us, even though he had next to nothing. He brought us spring onions, salt and thin nan. We wrapped a spring onion in the bread, dipped it in salt and it was as good as eating at a banquet.
Biography and links:
Mary Smith is a writer, freelance journalist and poet based in Dumfries & Galloway in south west Scotland.
She worked in Pakistan and Afghanistan for ten years, where she established a mother and child care programme providing skills and knowledge to women health volunteers. She has written a memoir, Drunk Chickens and Burnt Macaroni: Real Stories of Afghan Women, about her work in Afghanistan and the country also provides the setting for her novel No More Mulberries.
Mary’s poems have been widely published in poetry magazines and anthologies and her first full length poetry collection, Thousands Pass Here Every Day, was published by Indigo Dreams.
She has worked in collaboration with photographer Allan Devlin on two local history books: Dumfries Through Time and Castle Douglas Through Time. Secret Dumfries comes out in June 2018. Her next project is to turn her blog; My Dad’s a Goldfish, into a memoir about caring for her dad through his dementia.
Donkey Boy & Other Stories is her latest publication.
Mary’s latest book is a collection of short stories: Donkey Boy & Other Stories. Shot through with flashes of humour the stories here will entertain, amuse, and make you think. Mary Smith’s debut collection of short stories is a real treat, introducing the reader to a diverse range of characters in a wide range of locations. A donkey boy in Pakistan dreams of buying luxuries for his mother; a mouth artist in rural Scotland longs to leave the circus; a visually impaired man has a problem with his socks; and a woman tries to come to terms with a frightening gift – or curse.
Broadway Delicatessen and Broadway Wine Company are always essential destinations on our culinary compass. Broadway Wine Company is a boutique wine shop. The wines are displayed like precious books and each bottle has a blurb. Every label tells a story, and the wine merchant invites you into the narrative. Then like a conductor, he throws his arms around until he finds the right melody of flavour for you.
Drunk with enthusiasm, his mind travels to the various wine regions. His words ramble down the dusty tracks to the vineyards, until you reach some possible destinations for your wine choice. Oozing knowledge, he tells you where and how the wine is produced. Listening to your preferences, he starts ‘winestorming’ as he searches for the correct notes of flavour. Speaking, without pretention and without pausing, he finds the perfect match for your taste.
On our last pilgrimage, the wine evangelist helped us to select a trio of wines from the Old World and New World. We paired the Sidewood Reserve from the Adelaide Hills with some Gloucester Old Spot Sausages, served with Worcester apple sauce. Low and behold, it was a perfect match!
Elizabeth Clark
‘I received a copy of “
Elizabeth: The main character, Annie, is at a mentally fragile point in her existence, and I wanted the reader to wonder initially whether the apparitions were a figment of her imagination. The apparently tranquil setting lures the audience into a false sense of security, so I think that as they become more absorbed in the story they start to feel more than a little unsettled!
I tend to have lots of notes scribbled on random bits of paper tucked inside the notebook and in no decipherable order – the last one I came across said ‘I sat at the edge of the bed, twisting my fingers together nervously as I watched Leo perfecting the knot in his colourful tie before the bedroom mirror.‘ -: a self-prompt for the follow-up to ‘
Initially, I complained that it was another rainy day in Wales and it wasn’t worth braving a potential storm. I was happy to admire the colours of the garden, from my writing room, but the writing wasn’t flowing. Finally, I left my handbag at home, retrieved my walking gear and went to the Brecon Beacons. The beep, beep, beep of my phone was left behind as we drove into the heart of the impressive mountain range.
Always one to admire the cloudless blue sky, I was surprised by depth of the grey sky. I had been adamant that I needed the blue sky for some ‘blue sky thinking’, but I was wrong. I needed the reality of a dramatic landscape to chase away the writer’s block.
We stood in the landscape as the colours were dissolved by silver, grey and bronze tones. We discussed how the scene was changing before us, and how the moving clouds were like the curtains opening and closing on the stage. This very real experience made me aware that the weather re-writes the landscape in the same way that a writer changes the shades of meaning in a story.
Feeling relaxed, in our jeans and T shirts, we discussed the merits of the food; each dish looked elegant like a work of art. Much to my husband’s dismay, I started to make notes about the food. The guests on the neighbouring table were intrigued by the notebook. Clearly, I wasn’t a restaurant critic as I was wearing jeans. 
We sipped more of the wine that was so beautifully flavoured with summer fruits that it could have been a soft drink.
More delicious wine was poured into a glass that could happily home several goldfish.
I circled ‘black pudding’ purée several times because I didn’t have my highlighter pen. I do remember that I was offended by the puréed texture but I am a northerner.
Mysteriously, the notebook has splashes of wine and food inside of it but I will keep it as a tribute to the Picasso chef.
We agreed that the spirit of the woman seems to beckon you. From a distance, the sculpture looks like a projected image – prompting: is she real or imaginary? As you approach, the sculpture is flat – like the silhouette on a stamp. It is a beautiful form that seemed to appeal to women rather than men, on that day. Despite the grey sky, the light was adding a mystical quality that gave the sculpture an air of confidence. What this suggesting something about the modern woman?
I decided that the steps were a sculpture but my husband was sceptical at this point; he had been influenced by our fellow Yorkshire folk. A plaque marked the spot as if to reassure me. It felt as if someone was presenting a hopeful message about the climb. Pardon the pun, but I went a step further and commented that to me they represented the struggle for independent authors. But that was my interpretation at that point in time: I was influenced by my emotions, experience, the weather and, of course, ‘arty farty nonsense’.
I wonder if you would be able to spot the sculptures that instigated our discussions? Would you agree with the interpretations? Did someone deliberately construct a place when art can be read according to mood, weather and other factors? I don’t know the answer to this but invite you to have a look. Perhaps some of the questions should be placed next to the sculptures? Maybe, there will be a sculpture of a handbag in the future, or possibly a sculpture constructed of books.
