Book and a brew with Ritu | But I Smile Anyway...

Book and a Brew with Ritu – Hopeful Hearts at the Cornish Cove by @KimTheBookworm #NewRelease #BookReview @BoldwoodBooks

18 Apr 2023 8 Comments

by Ritu in Reviews Tags: Blog, Blog Post, Blogger, Blogging, Book and a brew with Ritu, Book Review, Hopeful Hearts at the Cornish Cove, Kim Nash, New Release

Loving this series!

Today, I am thrilled to welcome Kim Nash, a fantastic author, and writer friend of mine, to chat about her latest release, Hopeful Hearts at the Cornish Cove.

Today, I am thrilled to welcome amazing author Kim Nash to my blog for a cuppa and a bit of a chat about all things writerly, especially her latest release, Hopeful Hearts at the Cornish Cove.

Hello, and welcome to But I Smile Anyway, Kim! Let’s get you set with a drink, first. Now would you prefer a coffee of some sort? Or maybe a cup of tea, or would you like to be brave and have a traditional homemade Indian masala tea?

If we’re going masala tea, then I can bust out the samosas and pakoras (fried potato and vegetable fritters), but I do have biscuits, and cake. (Might not be as delicious as Gemma’s offerings, but I can try!

Let’s go with masala tea then. I’ve never tried it, but hey, life is about trying new things – yes? I do love a coffee, but you got me with samosas and pakoras. Although I’m a sucker for biscuits and cake, too (especially lemon drizzle!)

I promise I’ll ease you in gently, with a mild masala chai, then!

Right. So, let’s get started! You’ve been a busy bee, over the last few years, with your writing. No less than six published novels under your belt! And all pretty much amazing books, from what I have read. (Three down, three on my Kindle waiting for me to read!) I know you have a love for Women’s Fiction. What drove you to write in that direction?

Women’s Fiction is my favourite genre. Those books with humour, too, even more so. I grew up reading Shirley Conran’s Lace (I’ve never looked at goldfish in the same way!), (Oh my goodness, me too! 😳 ) Jilly Cooper books (wow!) and Danielle Steele which were a lot less racy but so very emotional. My mom often came into me in the middle of the night to tell me off for reading late and then ended up having to give me a hug because I was sobbing my heart out. Then I really found my place with books by Carole Matthews, Jill Mansell, Katie Fforde, Jane Green, Lisa Jewell, Isabel Wolfe etc. That was when I realised that was the sort of book that, if ever got round to writing one, would be what I would choose to write.

How bout you Ritu?

Well, for a start, I think I grew up with a lot of the same authors as you. My mum was a Barbara Taylor Bradford and Virginia Andrews fan, too, and an aunt who lived with us was a Danielle Steele fan, who left many of her books with us! And I carried on reading, many of those same authors as you, as I grew up, too. As for my writing genre, I struggle to pigeon hole it, to be honest, as there is contemporary there, rom com, cultural, or desi fiction, issues that would be more women’s fiction, as well as moral issues that a writer friend of mine described as literary. All I know is that there is lots to find, in my stories, but why I write them? Because I wanted to be able to read stories with more characterss like me, too. Stories that I could relate to, as a British Indian woman, but something that anyone could read, as entertainment, and also maybe a little educational, too.

Have you ever wanted to try and write in a different genre? I know it scares the bejesus out of me! (Even though I seem to be stretching myself in single books, instead!)

Oh me too! I couldn’t write historical fiction because I don’t have the time or the patience for all the research, although I LOVE to read them. I couldn’t write a crime or psychological thriller because I’d scare myself to death. I couldn’t write erotic stories because when I read them I find myself pulling funny faces and concentrating too much about what body bits are going where (like a game of Twister!) I have considered writing a cosy crime which I might try at some point but I’m rubbish at working out a whodunnit so maybe the crime would never get solved. I do like uplifting feel-good fiction that I write now, so I’m not planning to move out of my comfort zone yet. I’m trying masala tea, that’s enough of something new for me. LOL!

Well, that’s a start, at least, Kim!

Where do you like to write? Do you have a writing room at home, or are you a nomadic writer, taking your notebook and pen, or laptop to different places?

I’m a bit rubbish at writing from home. There’s always something else to do that distracts me and I’m the Queen of Procrastination! I do have a writing area set up in my garden room. (That sounds posher than it is but it does overlook the garden!) I have candles and fairy lights and try to make it feel different from my working space. I work from home too, so it’s quite difficult to separate the two for me. And when your fifteen-year-old is standing next to you trying really hard to do as many keepy-uppies as possible and the dog launching himself at the window because he’s seen a squirrel or barking excessively when someone has the audacity to walk down the street, it’s not easy when you are trying to be creative.

I love to get away from home (wonder why! See above!) For instance, as I write this, I’m staying in my friend’s house in Wales and I’m looking over the bay and am actually drifting off quite a bit just staring into the distance. I love a writing retreat with writing pals. A lodge in the countryside, overlooking water if possible, is perfect for me.

Where’s your favourite writing spot?

The writing retreat sounds idyllic, Kim! But, right now, it is tough for me to be away from home, due to more personal reasons. Thaat being said, I have my own writing room/reading nook in our house, which is so cosy, and in the summer, I can set up in the conservatorywhere I get a lovely view of our garden, as long as the sun is out! I’m blessed to be in the heart of a village in Kent, so the peace is wonderful.

Is there any one of your books that has a special place in your heart? I know that is a toughie as they are all our book babies, aren’t they?

It is really tough. Amazing Grace, my debut, I suppose is the most special because I wrote it after my Mom died so there’s a lot of me in it. It’s about a woman who is grieving the loss of her Mom. Can you see where the inspiration came from? LOL! Mom was a huge reader and I would have loved her to see her daughter become an author. I hope she’d be proud. (I didn’t know your mum, Kim, but I can guarantee she would bee proud of all you have achieved. 🤗)

I have loved all my books in their own way though. The two Muddleford books because they’re based on Mudeford where I spent a lot of my childhood holidays, and Sunshine and Second Chances because it’s about women of a *ahem* certain age going on holiday together and inspiring each other to be the best versions of themselves that they can be and finding their own happy. And finally Escape to Giddywell Grange which is about redundancy and how it can affect you both mentally as well as physically.

I always think that those ‘hard to talk about’ issues, are great to use in our books, because there are plenty of people ot there probably in similar situations, and even if they cannot talk about it, they can read, and recognise situations, making them feel less alone. And the book can be a great vehicle for opening conversations about difficult topics.

Let’s get back to your latest release, Hopeful Hearts at the Cornish Cove. Meredith, your main character is someone I feel many women could relate to. A certain age, with some responsibilities diminishing, and other problems raising their heads. But her impromptu purchase… now, that was a biggie! Have you ever done something like that?

Not really anything like that, but I am quite impulsive. I’m very black and white in my thinking. You either want something or you don’t, so I not really a ditherer. My ex for instance used to spend hours and hours researching for a new car. I’d ask what colour they were and pick the one that was my favourite colour. That’s my sort of decision making.

Oh, my goodness. Kim, were we cut from the same cloth? My decision process iss pretty much like that, too, while my husband can take three months to decide which restaurant he wants to go to! 😂

Many of your books are set in beautifully picturesque settings. Are they all places you have visited yourself?

They are although I haven’t been to Cornwall for years. It’s just so flipping far from where I live (Staffordshire) and the thought of ~~wasting,~~ I mean spending five hours at least in a car driving somewhere gives me the heebie-jeebies. Think of how much other stuff I could do in that time. Sunshine and Second Chances is set in The Algarve which is somewhere I adore. And Mudeford, where Muddleford is based on, has a very special place in my heart from childhood.

In this book we had Gladys, the gorgeous Labrador belonging to Vi. I do love a pet in a book. Do you have a furry muse at home, who helps you with your writing?

I do have a hairy hound at home, but I’m not sure he’s my muse! But he is gorgeous and I adore him. Roni is an English Setter who was rescued from Greece by a charity and we adopted him about 5 years ago. He just sighs a lot when I ask him to help me with a plot hole and he’s not really that up for helping with promotion either, as you can see from the photo here!

Oh, such a cutie!

I must tell you I devoured your latest offering in pretty much a day, because it was a story filled with hope and positivity. Will there be any more from Meredith and the gang, or is your next project something totally different?

I’m currently away editing Book 2 in the Driftwood Bay series, which follows Hopeful Hearts in the Cornish Cove. It will be out in October and will be Gemma’s story. Then Book 3 will be out next Spring and will be the story from someone else that you’ve already met, but I’m not ready to divulge who yet!

Care to guess Ritu? Or is there anyone you’d like to read more about?

Meredith’s mother, possibly? Well, now I am all excited at the thought of two more books to follow this!

Now, I hope you enjoyed the masala chai, and pakoras, Kim! And, thank you for popping over for a chat with me, it’s been a blast!

Thank you for inviting me, Ritu.

My pleasure 😊

Peeps, you can read the blurb for Hopeful Hearts at the Cornish Cove, and my review, below!

Purchase links follow.

The Blurb

A perfect new start in Cornwall…

Meredith’s life is at a standstill. She’s stuck in a dead-end job, approaching fifty, and her dating life is a string of disasters. But one evening, while browsing the internet, she sees an ad for a lighthouse, and in a moment of impulsiveness, she makes a ridiculous bid for it.

With the help of local handyman Clem, she sets about renovating. And as they work together, a bond begins to form. But when Meredith finds out that Clem is keeping a secret from her, it changes everything. Will they find a way to build something more meaningful together?

A delightful story about community, friendship and having the courage to start over, perfect for fans of Carole Matthews, Milly Johnson and Lucy Dillon

Available in ebook, paperback and audiobook

UK: https://amzn.to/3Yr7Q7u

US: https://amzn.to/3RMdPSb

My Review

Hopeful Hearts at the Cornish Cove by Kim Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It’s been a while since I stepped into the gorgeous worlds created by Kim Nash and her characters, and I truly enjoyed this foray to the Cornish coast!
Meredith made a bit of a drunken decision to purchase a lighthouse, miles away from the rest of her life, to have a fresh start, a project, and to put some distance between her and her old life that, apart from her best friend, seemed to have begun to stagnate.
Well, what can I say? There are always dubious purchases made with the aid of alcohol when you aren’t feeling yourself, and when she arrives at her new, unviewed, apart from some stylised photos, home, she is in for a shock.
And the shocks don’t start there, but at the local supermarket, where she encounters rude locals that get her back up from the off.
I will not go into the story, as what would be the point of you reading it if I was just to regurgitate it here, but I will say that you won’t want to put it down once you start reading!
Meredith is a character who will resonate with many women, especially those of a certain age. She had a fire in her belly that was dampened by her previous life, but the sea and sea air might have just reignited it rather than put it out completely!
There are many characters to keep you wanting to read, not least Vi, who I think is an amazing woman. What a character! And her dog, Gladys, is just adorable!
Meredith has old friends, but the new ones she makes as she begins what feels like a thankless task of renovating and restoring her purchase are a choice bunch.
But there are always that core of locals who ‘hate’ newcomers. She has her work cut out, I’ll tell you.
And, of course, there’s Clem… A brooding, moody man who ends up rather helpful in many ways. But will he be the one who helps her realise she is not just a middle-aged woman undeserving of a fresh start romantically as well as generally?
The restoration of the lighthouse was fascinating to read about, too, and just reading the descriptions makes me want to go and stay in one right now!
A wonderful read from start to finish!

CANNOCK COPYRIGHT SHROPSHIRE STAR STEVE LEATH 23/03/2023 Heather feature with author: Kim Nash, from Hednesford. Kim is pictured with her new book, with a selection of her books, and at her writing desk with a card featuring a Lighthouse that was given to her. The card sits on her writing desk and ended up being an inspiration for her book.

Author Bio

Kim Nash is an author of uplifting, funny, heartwarming, romantic, feel-good fiction and has wanted to write books since she was a little girl. She has recently signed a 3-book deal with Boldwood Books and Hopeful Hearts at the Cornish Cove is the first book in a series of books set in the fictional seaside village of Driftwood Bay in Cornwall.

She lives in Staffordshire with her son Ollie and English Setter rescue dog Roni, is Digital Publicity Director for publisher Bookouture (a division of Hachette UK) and is a book blogger at www.kimthebookworm.co.uk.

When she’s not working or writing, Kim can be found walking her dog at Cannock Chase, reading, writing and binge-watching box sets on the TV. She’s also quite partial to a spa day and a gin and tonic (not at the same time!) Kim also runs a book club in Staffordshire and organises local and national reader/author events.

Connect with Kim on Social Media here:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KimTheBookworm

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KimTheBookWorm/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/Kim_the_bookworm

TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@kimthebookworm

Book and a Brew with Ritu – The One That He Wants by @Lizzie_Chantree by #NewRelease #BookReview

11 Apr 2023 9 Comments

by Ritu in Reviews Tags: Blog, Blog Post, Blogger, Blogging, Book and a brew with Ritu, Book Review, Lizzie Chantree, New Release, The One That He WAnts

I’m back with a second edition!

Today, I am thrilled to welcome a dear friend and fantastic author, Lizzie Chantree to chat about her latest release, The One That He Wants.

Hello, and welcome to But I Smile Anyway, Lizzie! Let’s get you set with a drink, first. I know you like to meet with fellow writers over a cuppa!

I can offer you an English brew, or, if you fancy a little something different, I can always brew up some masala tea… or a coffee if you please? Or maybe a hot chocolate with whipped cream and marshmallows? Let me know. Snacks a plenty, too, from biscuits to something spicier!

Hi Ritu. Firstly, congratulations on your own brand new book! I can’t wait to read it. I do love English breakfast tea, but my weakness is a frothy latte. I would never say no to a snack, and although I try to eat healthily, I have a bubblegum drawer in my writing studio! Just don’t tell my children. Lol 😁

Aah, thank you so much, Lizzie. Yes, it’s been a bit of a whirlwind my end! But you know what that’s like! Let me grab you a latte, then and a few nibbles!

Right. So, let’s get started! I’d love to know where your writing journey started, Lizzie. Tell me what made you start to write novels.

I began writing as a kind of therapy. My youngest child was unwell for many years (she’s fine now), and I needed a way to keep myself awake at night to listen to her breathing. I decided to write a book, of all things! I filled it with the sunshine and laughter that was missing from my life at that time. I then hid it in a cupboard for five years until my daughter’s health began to improve. We now know she has contact allergies.

I am glad she is okay…. Children being unwell is one of the hardest things to comprehend. Now from that time you have a huge amount of stories under your belt!

Do you have a favourite of all your books?

I love them all, but my first, Babe Driven, is close to my heart. Writing that book helped me to get through a tough time in my life and my daughter proudly tells anyone who will listen that she was the catalyst for my new career, which is true!

I think your first book will always be something special, even if it never sees the light of day, especially as we know how tough it is to write any sort of book!

And, talking of writing, where do you like to write?

I adore writing by the sea or anywhere with cake, coffee and a great view. The landscape inspires me, and my pen seems to flow across the page. I often write the first 20 thousand words of my manuscripts by hand and enjoy the feel of pen and paper connecting to create something new.

I have often seen your posts of you out and about. Nature is just so inspiring! I have to admit to not being able to handwrite, as, despite bing a teacher, any writing of length makes my handwriting begin to look like a doctor’s and I can’t read it back!

I know you have a colourful past with business, too, with your lifesaving (or face-saving for many woman!) product Runaway Spray! Did that come before or after your writing started?

Before I began writing, I ran a retail and wholesale business for over fifteen years and designed my own product ranges. I invented Runaway Spray when I attended a very unusual university. We did a ‘four year in one’ course. 8am until 8pm every weekday. It was based in London and called, The School Of Communication Arts. I loved it there! They took around 35-40 students a year, and I was one of the youngest. It opened my eyes to design and marketing and showed me how to utilise my creative ideas. I was completely in awe of everyone there, as most had already been in creative industries for at least a few years. I joined straight from arts college.

That is an amazing achievement!

And to top it off, you do so much for the writing community with your fantastic Facebook group, Lizzie’s Book Group, which I love, as well as running the #CreativeBizHour conversation on Twitter on Mondays. How do you do all of this, on top of writing?

I do get tired! I also really love what I do, which helps. My mind is always looking for new avenues for creativity, so chatting to fellow creatives is an absolute pleasure and if I can share knowledge, then that makes me happy too. When I came into this industry, I didn’t know anyone or anything about publishing. Other authors and creatives took me under their wing and showed me where to find resources. I taught myself a lot under their guidance. If I can do it, anyone can! Networking was key to this success.

The creative community can be amazing, when you find your tribe, I agree, 100%. It was definitely because of my first community, formed on my blog that I got the confidence to decide to publish my poetry book, then Marriage Unarranged, with so much support and advice from this wonderful blogily I had found.

Before I go off on a totally different tangent, let’s chat about your latest book, The One That He Wants, book two in the Cherry Tree Series. I loved the first, and this one too! (Review is below!) Where did the idea come for this business park-related series?

Thank you for taking the time to read and review this book. I really appreciate you! Loved it!

The setting of Cherry Blossom Lane came naturally because Cherry Blossoms represent rebirth, renewal and new beginnings. The stories focus on a group of old school friends and the notorious Taylor ‘Heartbreak Brothers’ who live in their old town. There are invisible threads linking them all together throughout the series, but they all find ways to support, lift up and encourage each other, even if they sometimes fall in and out of love.

I love Sasha, the main character in this book, too. She is outwardly filled with so much confidence and advice, yet finds it hard to apply the same to herself! And she is a hot chocolate aficionado, too. Are you a hot chocolate fan, too?

I’m actually allergic to chocolate! I love that Sasha is unapologetic about who she is. She lacks confidence at times, but refuses to change for anyone – especially Oliver Taylor. A lot of it is bravado, but she learns about herself throughout the book, and I think the bit of self-reflection doesn’t do her any harm.

And, I already know there will be a third book, which I cannot wait for! But what else do you have in the pipeline? Any tidbits you want to share?

Thank you! I am excited to finish writing book three of my Cherry Blossom Lane series. I have also written a prequel to my Little Shop by the Sea series, which will be offered to my newsletter subscribers. The prequel is about the main character, Genie, before American heartthrob, Cal, crashed into her world. It was a lot of fun to write. Next up after that, is a book that I cannot wait to jump into. It’s set in London along a bustling riverside and based around assumptions, misunderstandings and sizzling romance!

How exiting! You know I’ll be there, ready to read!

I’m currently working on a series of seminars that I will be running this year in Essex, to help writers with their book marketing, launches and planning. They will be based on my book, Networking for Writers, but will include extra content. Book marketing can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be scary or expensive. It just needs a little imagination and a network of support. I run writing buddy sessions each month with fellow romance author, Chris Penhall, in Fete Graysyard Café in Chelmsford, Essex, where we encourage new and experienced writers to get words onto paper. If anyone is nearby, join in!

You truly are an awesome, encouraging person, Lizzie with so much creativity within you! I look forward to hearing more about the seminars, too!

Thank you so much for visiting, Lizzie. It’s been a pleasure.

Thank you for inviting me, Ritu.

My pleasure 😊

Peeps, there is more to come from lovely Lizzie so make sure you sign up for her newsletter!!

Romantic reads by Lizzie Chantree

Now, as I mentioned before, I read The One That He Wnnts not long after it came out! Here’s the Blurb and my Review.

The Blurb

An exciting new romance read, from the author of, My Perfect Ex. After years of longing for a life that is just out of her reach, Sasha decides to take fate into her own hands and jump feet first into an exciting new job with her best friend Poppy. Now things are finally back on track, it’s time for Sasha to help plan a wedding and to start dating again… anyone but the best man, that is. When charismatic Oliver Taylor, best man and one of the town’s renowned ‘heartbreak brothers’ asks Sasha to be his plus-one for the wedding to escape the unwanted attentions of a mutual friend, circumstances beyond her control mean she has to accept. But then social media superstar, Devon comes onto the scene and starts shaking the foundations that Ollie is trying to rebuild. Will the past hold her back from an exciting new future, or will Sasha be brave enough to follow her heart? A irresistible, romantic story of enemies to lovers. Scroll up and one-click to lose yourself in the Cherry Blossom Lane series, today.

The One The He Wants, is the second book in a series of exciting romance novels set in Cherry Blossom Lane, by Lizzie Chantree.

My Review

The One That He Wants: A gorgeous and exciting, enemies to lovers romance to escape with. by Lizzie Chantree
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was absolutely into Cherry Blossom Lane with book 1, so I couldn’t wait to be reunited with the characters and learn more about what was happening with Sasha this time!
And Lizzie Chantree did not disappoint.
It was wonderful to see Poppy again, follow the lead-up to her wedding, and watch with intrigue the development of Sasha’s self-confidence and her romantic life.
Ollie is the Taylor brother in the picture this time round, and he is certainly a complex character.
There were plenty of ‘Will they? Won’t they?’ moments as different characters introduced themselves as prospective spanners in the works!
I love how the intrigue has been built for the next book… And cannot wait for it to be out!

Buy it HERE!

The One That He Wants: https://mybook.to/TheOneThatHeWants

Lizzie has written many books, most of which I have read!

The Little Ice Cream Shop: viewbook.at/IceCreamShopByTheSea
The Little Cupcake Shop: viewbook.at/LittleCupcakeShopBySea
My Perfect Ex: viewbook.at/MyPerfectEx
If You Love Me, I’m Yours: mybook.to/IfYouLoveMe
Ninja School Mum: viewbook.at/NinjaSchoolMumRomance
Babe Driven: viewbook.at/BabeDriven
Love’s Child: viewBook.at/Amazon-LovesChild
Finding Gina: viewbook.at/FindingGina
Shh… It’s Our Secret: https://www.bhcpress.com/Books_Chantree_Shh_Its_Our_Secret.html
The Woman Who Felt Invisible: viewbook.at/InvisibleWoman

Networking for Writers: viewbook.at/NetworkingForWriters

Author Bio

International bestselling author and award-winning inventor, Lizzie Chantree, started her own business at the age of 18 and became one of Fair Play London and The Patent Office’s British Female Inventors of the Year in 2000. She discovered her love of writing fiction when her children were little and now works as a business mentor and runs a popular networking hour on social media, where creatives can support to each other. She writes books full of friendship and laughter, that are about women with unusual and adventurous businesses, who are far stronger
than they realise. She lives with her family on the coast in Essex.

Her motto is to always do what you love, stay true to your heart’s desires, and inspire others to do so too.

Lizzie is extremely active on Social Media, so if you want to follow her somewhere, I am sure there is something to your taste in this list!

Social media links:
Website: www.lizziechantree.com
Author page: https://www.viewAuthor.at/LizzieChantree
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Lizzie_Chantree
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lizzie.chantree.3/
Fb Page: https://www.facebook.com/LizzieChantree/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7391757.Lizzie_Chantree
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lizzie_chantree/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/LizzieChantree/pins/
FB Groups: https://www.facebook.com/groups/647115202160536/
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/lizzie-chantree
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lizziechantreeauthor
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnCop-RlAcGqggZG3JfE-Mw
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lizzie_chantree

Book and a Brew with Ritu – Do What You Love by @Marjorie_Mallon by #NewRelease #BookReview

25 Nov 2022 20 Comments

by Ritu in Book & A Brew With Ritu, Reviews Tags: Blog, Blog Post, Blogger, Blogging, Book and a brew with Ritu, Book Review, Do What You Love, Marjorie Mallon, New Release

I’m back with a second edition!

Today, I am thrilled to welcome an old blogging and writing friend who I have met in person. None other than the lovely Marjorie Mallon, one of my blogging sisters! She’s got an awesome poetry collection out TODAY, entitled Do What You Love.

Hello, and welcome to But I Smile Anyway again, Marje! First things first. What would you like to drink?

We have all the usuals, tea, coffee, masala chai, fancy coffee from the Nespresso machine, or green tea if you’d prefer. Lil Princess has been busy baking cookies for us, too!

Ah, I’ve put a bit of weight on recently, Ritu, so I better say green tea, but I’d love a cookie! Thanks, Lil Princess. 🙂

So, firstly, let’s set the scene. You recently left British shores and have moved abroad to Portugal. What a brave move! Tell us about it. How has it changed life for you since you are also a mother? And are you able to be more creative out there now?

Thank you so much, Ritu, for inviting me over to chat about my new book and for taking the time to read and review it. I appreciate it so much. We’re still swamped in the bureaucratic post covid process, Ritu.

Even though things are starting to move! At the moment, I’m spending over half of the year in the UK, mostly in Edinburgh and the rest in Portugal. As I have elderly parents and my daughters are both based in the UK, I see this time as a precious gift to be with them. I miss my daughters, family and friends in the UK.

But… we have had a lot of visitors! In truth, I find it more difficult to focus on writing here as there are so many distractions! I have to be disciplined and find the time! Yesterday (after a late night and a rock concert,) I began writing this interview on the train travelling from Faro back to Tavira.

You haven’t pigeonholed yourself as a writer, have you? YA fantasy fiction, and all sorts of poetry and cross-over poetic fiction books. What is your favourite type of creative writing?

No, I haven’t. I would try anything… I might even attempt to write a crime and/or romance novel one day. My favourite kind of writing is… perhaps poetry and short fiction as I find it the easiest to write. I love writing full-length novels too, but they are much more challenging, frustrating and time-consuming.

I’ve been wondering, how is your 2nd book progressing Ritu… Can’t wait to read it.

Currently, it is sitting with my editors at my publisher! So, not long. June 2023 is the pencilled-in publication date! Oh, they do take forever to write, don’t they, especially when you are working full time, too!

You know I’m a nosy soul. Where do you like to write? Is it a very different setup for you now you have moved?

Yes! We have downsized from a 5-bed family home with a large garden to a one-bed rented flat with a tiny balcony and no garden. I must be mad! I mainly write in said flat in Tavira – in the kitchen! My hubby bought me a nice table and chairs with a pretty view of the fields and trees nearby I used to have an office in our old house, but we are only renting at the moment, so I am making do! I am flexible that way… as long as I have a laptop, power and wifi, I am ready to go.

What about you Ritu where do you write?

I have my little reading and writing room. I loathed to call it an office because it then seems like work rather than the pleasure I find creating stories!

We’ve been friends for a LONG time now. And we’ve had the pleasure of meeting each other in person at the ABBA’s. (Remember them? I miss those opportunities to catch up with my blogily!) How do you feel your blogging career has evolved over the years?

Yes, we have been friends for a LONG time, and I value your dear friendship so much, Ritu. I miss those events and your lovely in-person company! I must admit to having downsized my blogging activity. I miss it, but something had to give! I focus mainly on writing reviews now, doing blog tours etc., which I love doing. I’ve started a bookstagram account mainly for this purpose: https://www.instagram.com/mjm_reviews/

Who knows where my future writing/blogging may take me.

I would love to write more about my travels…as I am a keen photographer. I’ve started drafting a story set in Tavira, so we shall see…it started off as a romantic idea but seems to be veering in another direction. So me!

You must find it so hard to find time Ritu with your work commitments… How do you manage? Oddly I find it even harder now I am retired from my day job. The opposite to what I expected!

I’m not actually sure how I manage, Marje! But, I feel that if you really want to do something, you will find the time for it, so that is how I manage. I don’t watch an awful lot of TV, so my spare time is all reading and writing and adding my regular posts to my blog!

I have been honoured to read most of your work as working copies, or arcs, over the years. What has been your favourite project so far?

You are a star and such a huge supporter of all my work! It’s a pleasure to read and an honour to be trusted with someone’s creativity!

I love your writing too and can’t wait to read more of The Rishtay series! (Blushing…) Thank you.

My favourite project… a difficult one to answer as I love them all.

Overall, it has to be my debut novel Bloodstone, in The Curse of Time series, as it was my first writing project, the 1st novel I’d ever written and published. It kickstarted it all, and I am very proud of all the positive and diverse reviews it has received. It now has 84 reviews on Goodreads… and counting, with an overall rating of 4.14.

Also, I met the inventor of the Corpus Christi Clock (one of the inspirations for the series,) Dr John C Taylor, and went out for lunch and a stroll with him, which was a huge highlight of my life. And Bloodstone is now available in audiobook which I love. We are currently working on the audiobook of book 2, Golden Healer. So excited about this!

I’ve just literally finished reading Do What You Love, your latest poetry collection with an eclectic mix of writing, where you revisit key moments in life and talk them through via the mediums of fictional conversations with the Three Sisters of Fate. Tell us how this idea came about.

I had a conversation with the sisters of fate, and they said to write this! Only joking. Like all of my writing projects, it evolved rather than was planned. It showcases poetry, prose and photographic images about my favourite places to live, emotional memories, happy times, amusing moments, and imagined discussions with the 3 three sisters of fate over a wide period of time. I suppose it is me having a soul-searching chat with myself about how my life is about to change and how perhaps I have to come to terms with that. Moving abroad is much more difficult than I first anticipated. I tend to jump and think later…

Since we’re sitting here with our drinks and cookies, and your book is about reminiscences, can you tell us a bit about a favourite food or snack and the memories it evokes?

My favourite food or snack has to be my mum’s beef rendang (Malaysian curry) or her Chinese duck, or sweet and sour pork – truly scrumptious, and her snacks…meat sate sticks, dim sum, homemade spring rolls.

My mum’s cooking evokes memories of family gatherings, and my hubby’s mouth-watering… he kept on coming to see me and ended up being spellbound by her fabulous cooking. Lol. Not joking. My mum is still a wonderful cook at age 80! She still gets up early every morning to cook. Bless her.

That all sounds delicious!

Now, to finish, can you tell us what to expect next? Will there be more from your YA series or other fiction? Or will you be concentrating on your poetry?

Next up is the final book in my YA fantasy series which will be set in The Land of Shadows. I also have several unfinished projects, some of which are short stories and as I mentioned earlier, the beginning of a story set in Tavira. Perhaps if I do write another poetry collection it will be set in Portugal… time will tell!

Oh, now exciting!

Thank you so much for visiting, Marje. It’s been a pleasure.

Thank you for inviting me, Ritu.

My pleasure 😊

Peeps, you heard that right, the last in Marje’s YA series is on its way, too!

Now, as I mentioned before, I was lucky enough to read an ARC of Do What You Love, so let me share the blurb and my review.

The Blurb

Do What You Love is a personal poetry collection celebrating how the fates may have a part in all that we do.

With special poems and short reflective moments inspired by family, flowers and nature, love, scrumptious morsels, places I’ve visited, lived and intend to live in, the friendships and hopes I have for the future.

The overarching theme is to live a life well lived… And to do what you love.

float along with me
create clouds of sweetest joy
to do what you love
hold fate’s hand as we venture
near and far on life’s journey

My Review

Do What You Love: Fragility of Your Flame Poems Photography & Flash Fiction by M.J. Mallon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh what a lovely book, filled with poetic gems and beautiful prose!
I enjoy reading MJ Mallon’s poetic fiction, where she ties poetry with prose, and have read several of her previous books written similarly.
Do What You Love is almost autobiographical in the sense that she has taken her memories and written them in poetic form. The fictional, almost fantastical element is where she meets the three sisters of fate through her journey of reminiscences, and they talk about her different memories.
It’s not linear, but no conversation ever is, is it? Memories jump from the more recent to the older ones as they come tumbling into your mind.
I felt a keen connection to the poems about her daughters and the autumn trees. Autumn is one of my favourite seasons.
A lovely book with a personal touch.

AMAZON – DO WHAT YOU LOVE

Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0BKLC9DYY/

Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/What-You-love-Fragility-Photography-ebook/dp/B0BKLC9DYY/

Amazon Canada: https://www.amazon.ca/What-You-love-Fragility-Photography-ebook/dp/B0BKLC9DYY/

And here are some links about Marje and her other books.

I am thrilled to say that two of my poetry collections (Mr Sagittarius and Lockdown Innit) have been requested by prestigious libraries in the UK: The British Library, The Bodleian Library Oxford University, the Cambridge University Library, the National Library of Scotland, National Library of Wales and Trinity College Dublin for Legal Deposit.

Add the book to your TBR: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/63114445-do-what-you-love

The cover of the paperback and kindle have been designed by Colleen Chesebro who has a new service for authors which I can highly recommend. Colleen also designed the interior and cover of The Hedge Witch And The Musical Poet.

https://unicorncatspubservices.wordpress.com/my-services

Blog: https://mjmallon.com

All links via: https://linktr.ee/mjmallonauthor

Portfolio:
https://unicorncatspubservices.wordpress.com/portfolio

https://wordcraftpoetry.com/unicorn-cats-publishing-services/

Other poetry/flash fiction collections:

Kyrosmagica Publishing

The Hedge Witch And The Musical Poet

https://books2read.com/u/mv1OeV

Mr. Sagittarius Poetry and Prose

http://mybook.to/MrSagittarius

Anthology – This Is Lockdown (poetry, diaries and flash fiction – kindle)

http://mybook.to/Thisislockdown

Poetry during Lockdown – Lockdown Innit

http://mybook.to/Lockdowninnit

Poetry also features in my highly acclaimed YA Fantasy series. Each chapter begins with a short poem. The Curse of Time Book 1 Bloodstone and Book 2 Golden Healer are published by Next Chapter Publishing.

https://www.nextchapter.pub/books/bloodstone

https://www.nextchapter.pub/books/golden-healer

https://www.nextchapter.pub/authors/mj-mallon

About the Author

M J Mallon was born in Lion city Singapore, a passionate Scorpio with the Chinese Zodiac sign of a lucky rabbit. She spent her early childhood in Hong Kong. During her teen years, she returned to her father’s childhood home, Edinburgh where she spent many happy years, entertained and enthralled by her parents’ vivid stories of living and working abroad. Perhaps it was during these formative years that her love of storytelling began to be bolstered by these vivid raconteurs. She counts herself lucky to have travelled to many far-flung destinations, and this early wanderlust has fuelled her present desire to emigrate abroad. Until that wondrous moment, it’s rumoured that she lives sometimes in the UK and often times in Portugal. Her two enchanting daughters have flown the nest but often return with a cheery smile to greet her.

Her motto is to always do what you love, stay true to your heart’s desires, and inspire others to do so too.

Book and a Brew with Ritu – Snowfall over Halesmere House by Suzanne Snow@SnowProse @canelo_co @Katrina_Power #NewRelease #BookReview

20 Nov 2022 7 Comments

by Ritu in Book & A Brew With Ritu, Reviews Tags: Blog, Blog Post, Blogger, Blogging, Book and a brew with Ritu, Book Review, New Release, Suzanne Snow

I’m back with a second edition!

Today, I am hosting a new-to-me author, Suzanne Snow, as I read her most recent release, Snowfall Over Halesmere House, as part of a blog tour!

Hello, and welcome to But I Smile Anyway, Suzanne! Now, the first thing we do is get the drinks sorted.

Thank you for hosting me, Ritu, I’m looking forward to answering your questions after our drink!

I do a mean Indian masala chai. However, I noticed that your main character, Ella, enjoyed coffee more, so if that is what you’d like I can offer that, or even a yummy hot chocolate. I have the whipped cream and marshmallows ready.

In the spirit of all things foodie, since Ella was a chef, I have some lovely fresh Indian snacks to go with the tea, samosas and pakoras, but an additional steamed dhokla, which originates from Gujarat, if you fancy a try!

I would love to try all of those, thank you, and I know they’re going to be delicious! I’d be very happy with the masala chai or a turmeric latte. I drink more tea than coffee, and I’m not a big fan of hot chocolate (sorry!).

We have something in common already. I am definitely a tea drinker rather than a coffee one!

Now, I always love to find out more about where a fellow author’s journey started. When did you realise you wanted to write, and how was your journey to becoming a published author? I know the RNA played a massive part, too.

It really did. I began writing as a child, immersing myself in books which fired my imagination and took me to places I could picture perfectly in my mind. It wasn’t long before I knew I wanted to create my own and I probably have some awful short stories written by ten-year-old me in a box somewhere!

I was always drawn to romance, and I joined the RNA as a new writer in 2018 with two manuscripts already written. My first report was very positive and suggested some edits, which I did, and it also gave me the confidence to approach agents and publishers.

There were of course plenty of rejections along the way. I met my agent Susan Yearwood at the 2019 RNA conference, where I was pitching my second manuscript. In April 2020 I signed a 3-book deal with Canelo and both of those early manuscripts went on to be published as books one and two in the Welcome to Thorndale series.

I think many hours of work and perseverance played their part in getting published, along with opportunities for new writers to learn through the RNA. I can’t overstate the importance of the New Writers Scheme and connecting with people who share your love for the genre through the Association.

At present, you are a new-to-me author, as I mentioned, but you have several other books out there. Could you tell us a little about the inspiration behind your other series?

Welcome to Thorndale is a four-book series set in the beautiful Yorkshire Dales. The village of Arncliffe, currently used for filming some scenes in All Creatures Great and Small, was my original inspiration for Thorndale. I visit the Dales quite regularly and I still half expect to see my characters going about their business when I’m there!

My inspiration to write comes from a love of landscape, romance and rural life, and I wanted to bring all of these together in the books. Each is a standalone story, but they are best read in order as characters from the first book return in all four.

I completed the series with A Country Village Christmas last year, but I have an idea for a fifth book at the back of my mind. Books one and four in the series have epilogues on my website, and it was so much fun to return to familiar characters and write them.

It’s funny how some characters don’t want to be put to bed. My first novel, Marriage Unarranged was a stand-alone. Still, the characters wouldn’t be quiet, so I have just finished book 2 and am starting the process for the third in that series, and even then, there are ideas for novellas and possibly sequels coming into my mind!

And do you have a favourite out of all your published books so far?

It’s very difficult to answer as they’re a little bit like favourite children! How do you choose! If I had to pick just one, it would be The Cottage of New Beginnings, as it’s the first book I had published, and that’s such a special moment for any author. Annie and Jon’s story was the beginning of my new career, and they’re definitely favourite characters, and I still wonder where they might be in their lives now. Each book was a joy to write, and I’m very grateful to be continuing into a second series with Canelo.

I’d agree with you, there. Our books are always our babies!

I always ask this one, but could you tell me where you like to write? Do you have a writing room/desk, or are you a writer who likes to take their laptop/notepad out and about?

I can write more or less anywhere, and if it’s going well, the noise around me will cease. I do most of my writing from around six am, and I’m at my best first thing. I write for three hours before a walk to work out what’s next. I have a lovely writing nook, and it’s very cosy with lots of books. My husband suggested the colour when we redecorated it as it’s described as a romantic grey-pink. He thought it would suit my room perfectly; he was right, and I love it!

That sounds ideal!

Have you ever written a book you feel will never see the light of day? I know I have a few half-written ideas, but nothing I finished completely, then set to one side!

I haven’t got a full-length manuscript in a drawer, but there are probably one or two terrible, unfinished ones from many years ago. They will never see the light of day, I’ll make sure of it! I mainly wrote short stories during my teenage years, and it was a good way to begin. I found some recently during a clear-out and couldn’t bring myself to shred them as they’re part of my own story as an author. I hope you finish yours, Ritu, and they do see the light of day, I’m sure they’re much better than mine!

Oh, gosh, no! We should never get rid of them, should we? You never know where that little fledgeling of an idea may flourish and form a part of a story you write in the future! And I highly doubt they are much better than yours! Probably different, but no less rushed and immature!

Now, I invited you over to have a little chat about your newest release, Snowfall over Halesmere House. Firstly, can I just say, I love that you have a Christmassy book and your surname is Snow! Where did the idea for the story of Ella and Max come from?

Thank you, I love the snow on the covers of my Christmas books. It’s very apt! I think I’ll have to keep on writing about Christmas!

I wanted to write a series set in the Lake District and had the idea for a holiday home and group of artists’ studios with characters coming and going. I love Cumbria and have spent lots of time there visiting studios and different areas of the county for inspiration.

Ella and Max are both familiar with loss in their lives, and I hope their story is an uplifting one rooted in a sense of place that helps them move on and look to the future. Prim, the English Pointer dog, was inspired by our own, and wonderful to write. Max’s children Lily and Arlo, and his mother Noelle all play their own part in a story of family and finding love.

Ella is a chef, as I mentioned earlier. Are you a dab hand in the kitchen? If so, what is your speciality? If not, who is the cook in your house?

I’m a good home cook, and we like to try new things along with the old favourites. I love making meals for family and friends, and a few years ago I made hundreds of individual portions of soup to sell for charity. My husband enjoys baking, and he makes a fabulous black cherry cheesecake.

I love that your husband bakes! I do love a bit of baking. My Hubby Dearest well, he is a dab hand at ordering takeaway, if you catch my drift! He can microwave meals like no one else, and can boil an egg…

My speciality would probably be a roast dinner, as my dad taught me and he still makes the best gravy. My son is also a good cook and always willing to help out if we’re busy. He’s more experimental than me and likes to create his own recipes.

Oh. I love roast dinners! Your son sounds like my brother. He’s a great cook and always knocking up different dishes!

I understand that Snowfall Over Halesmere House is the beginning of a new series for you called Love In The Lakes. Any sneaky clues as to who the next story may centre around?

The next book is due out in February, and it’s Lizzie and Cal’s second chance at first love. Until this one, I hadn’t written about a couple who’d known each other before, and I loved creating that first connection and writing about the summer they spent together twelve years earlier. They’re back at Halesmere for different reasons and creating their story, as they go in search of family and maybe a future, was brilliant.

That sounds fantastic, and. I can’t wait for book two in the series!

Thank you so much for visiting, Suzanne. It’s been a pleasure.

Thank you so much for inviting me to your blog, Ritu, I’ve loved answering your questions. I hope one day I’ll get to try those amazing samosas, pakoras and steamed dhokla. I wish you all the best with your unfinished work too, I look forward to them seeing daylight!

My pleasure 😊 And thank you for the good vibes! May we bring many books out between us!

So, you have a fantastic book to read, my Peeps, and a second one following it, soon, too!

Now, as I mentioned before, I was lucky enough to read an ARC of Snowfall At Halesmere House, so let me share the blurb and my review.

The Blurb

Welcome to Halesmere House, where romance might be just around the corner…

After years of living in the past, Ella is ready to start building a future. The perfect opportunity presents itself when she is offered a short-term role at Halesmere House in the Lake District, and tasked with kick-starting its artists’ residence. She can’t wait to start and explore a new career in an inspiring location.

But when Ella arrives at Halesmere, she wonders if she’s made a huge mistake after she clashes with Max, the new owner. Max has his own reasons to be unsettled by her presence, but despite his misgivings it seems everyone else loves having Ella around. As a single dad, it’s his children’s attachment to her that bothers him most. Who will pick up the pieces when Ella leaves?

What Max doesn’t know is that Ella is falling for more than just the Lake District and the community around her. Can her temporary job lead to a permanent happy ending?

A tender and uplifting Christmas romance for fans of Heidi Swain, Karen Swan and Sue Moorcroft.

My Review

I was lucky enough to be sent an ARC of Snowfall at Halesmere House to participate in a blog tour.
A lovely story about our main character, Ella, who has spent her whole life chasing a dream that wasn’t hers. She’s ready for a chance to think about what she wants in life.
A spot of a post on Instagram brings her to an idyllic but small village a fair distance from her home, where she encounters some interesting characters and plenty of challenges of her own.
I loved it.
Noelle, the woman who brought Elle to the Lake District, is a hoot, and her son, Max, and his children get under the skin of our MC pretty quickly.
There is an excellent cast of supporting characters and a certain woman who is the thorn in Ella’s side, but I don’t think she realises until quite far along in the story!
And the slow-burn romance that builds among the Christmas cheer is as welcome as a log fire on a cold winter’s night!
A great read!

Author Biography

Suzanne writes contemporary and uplifting fiction with a vibrant sense of setting and community connecting the lives of her characters. A horticulturist who lives with her family in Lancashire, her books are inspired by a love of landscape, romance and rural life.

Her first novel in the Thorndale series, The Cottage of New Beginnings, was a contender for the 2021 RNA Joan Hessayon Award and she is currently writing the Love in the Lakes series for Canelo. Suzanne is a member of the Romantic Novelists Association and the Society of Authors.

Check out Suzanne’s Website: https://www.suzannesnowauthor.com/

Follow Suzanne on Twitter

Follow Suzanne on Instagram

Book and a Brew with Ritu – The Gingerbread Cafe by @anita_faulkner_ #NewRelease #BookReview

27 Oct 2022 19 Comments

by Ritu in Book & A Brew With Ritu, Reviews Tags: Anita Faulkner, Blog, Blog Post, Blogger, Blogging, Book and a brew with Ritu, Book Review, New Release, The Gingerbread Cafe

I’m back with a second edition!

Today, I am thrilled to welcome a relatively new but nonetheless amazing romance author, Anita Faulkner. Her second book, The Gingerbread Cafe, is out TODAY!

Hello, and welcome to But I Smile Anyway, Anita! Let’s get you set with a drink first. I know you are a fan of a cuppa. I see you with your mugs on your Chick Lit and Prosecco Wednesday catch-ups!

I can offer you an English brew, or, if you fancy a little something different, I can always brew up some masala tea… or a coffee if you please? Let me know. Snacks a plenty, too, from biscuits (yes, even gingerbread) to samosas.

Ooh, now I remember reading about masala tea in your fabulous novel, Marriage Unarranged. And as it’s deliciously full of ginger, cinnamon and spices it sounds perfect for our bookish chat about The Gingerbread Café. Let’s put a pot on!

And do pass the samosas …

So, a debut author only a matter of months ago, and already you have your second book out. How does that feel? Tell me a bit about your journey from aspiring writer to successful published author.

The journey has been long! But like many things in life, it has been worth the work and the wait.

I probably started writing my first novel the best part of ten years ago, back when I was still a bolshie solicitor. But little did I know, writing and editing a 100,000-word novel – and then trying to get it published – was no walk in the park!

That first novel (which I rewrote at least three times) will probably always live in a dusty drawer. It was rejected a million times over, but the feedback I got about it from the fabulous Romantic Novelists’ Association’s New Writers’ Scheme taught me so much and enabled me to go on and write something so much better.

Then through the RNA, I met my fantastic publisher Little, Brown (Sphere) and award-winning agent Kate Nash. By some glorious miracle, they both loved A Colourful Country Escape, and it became my debut.

My festive romcom The Gingerbread Café is hot on its heels.

Do you feel a special affinity to either of the books you have written?

As I’m sure you’ll agree, wonderful Ritu, creating a novel is kind of like bringing a baby into the world. And much like children, each will hold a special place in your heart – for their own unique reasons.

Oh, I 100% agree, Anita! I always call them my Book Babies!

The Gingerbread Café is dedicated to my friend Gina, who sadly passed away unexpectedly – and far too young – whilst I was writing the story. Gina had plans to write her own book and even gave me some ideas for this one. (Look out for Cedric the Shih Tzu who wears crystals in his bandana.) So this story will always be dear to me, partly for that reason. I wrote it for Gina.

I am always curious as to where my authorly friends like to create their wonderful stories. Where do you like to write?

I bounce around, depending on my mood! Do you do that too, Ritu? Or are you always in that gorgeous writing space of yours? I’ve seen the pics!

I do love my little writing space! But some days I may be in my bed, or in the conservatory, too!

I have an upcycled writer’s bureau that I absolutely love. From there, I can look out onto the garden and daydream. (It also has cute little drawers for pretty paperclips and coloured post-its. My eight-year-old self is in heaven!) Gotta love a garden view!

In the winter, I like to cosy up on the sofa with a blanket and a candle. (Not too close together – that would probably end in a blazing disaster.) I even have a hot water bottle on my lap for extra cosy vibes!

But if I need to crack on without gawping at birds or faffing with mood lighting, I use my desk upstairs. Although I am planning to redecorate it with a peacock theme to tie in with Lexie’s adventures in A Colourful Country Escape …

I met you through your wonderful Facebook group Chick Lit & Prosecco, which is a hugely successful group filled with romance writers and readers, so I know romance is your passion. Why romance? Have you ever toyed with the idea of writing in a different genre?

Writing romance is such a joy, isn’t it? (In fact, even when I’m reading another genre, I’m rooting for someone to fall in love along the way.)

Gotta love a bit of romance, Anita!

My books always contain a storyline outside of the romantic bit. My heroines (and heroes) are fighting for something that will challenge them and shape their growth. In The Gingerbread Café Gretel needs to get over her grief for her mother and sister, and to shake off her unhealthy obsession with Christmas. And of course, she needs to take a giant leap out of her comfort zone to try to run the café she’s inherited – when she has never been sociable, and she seriously can’t bake!

But of course, I live for the love story too. As my characters push through their struggles and grow, they become ready to accept love – because they can finally accept themselves.

I wouldn’t know where to start with writing in a different genre, but I do love reading widely. I’ve been into a few cosy mysteries and psychological thrillers at the moment, and there’s a lot to be learned from those twisty plots and that page-turning pace.

Do you love a bit of murder too, Ritu?

I’m okay with reading psychological thrillers, but I have never felt the inclination to write them. I am not sure I could write murders, and the plots are so complex, I don’t think my brain works that way! Gosh!

I think we need more tea. Time for a top-up before we carry on, and maybe we could nibble on a gingerbread man, as we go!

Anita, I loved your debut, A Colourful Country Escape. Those peacocks were a hilarious addition. I have to say we have an orange vintage VW camper that is seen around our local area, and it now reminds me of Lexie! Was that the first novel you had ever completed, or had you written others before that haven’t been published?

Ha ha, we’re back to that dusty old drawer book! I think a few of us writers have those, and it always helped me as a budding author to hear about them. I went to a book talk once with an international bestselling debut author, and she admitted that she still had four dusty old rejects that had never been published.

Quite often those are the books that help us learn and grow. Whilst I don’t plan to go back to it any time soon (or indeed ever!) I’ll always have a soft spot for it.

(In fact – Secret Squirrel. If you’ve read Sky’s wedding scene in A Colourful Country Escape, you’ll have met Lexie’s friends Mia and Jake, who were the main characters in the aforementioned dusty tome. Ooh …)

Maybe it won’t stay in that drawer… it could get a little dust off and become a reader magnet for your newsletter… you know, sign up and receive a little extra something from me! Food for thought, my friend.

Now, let’s get back to the book of the moment, The Gingerbread Café. I was lucky enough to receive an arc, and I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Gretel and Lukas. What was your inspiration for this Christmas-themed story?

Since I came across so many fabulous authors in my Facebook group Chick Lit and Prosecco, I’ve become a little obsessed with Christmas novels. (Hello Jaimie Admans, Katie Ginger, Sandy Barker, Leonie Mack, Kitty Wilson … and so many more!)

Festive reads can be so enchanting, and I just wanted to play around with some of that Christmas magic. So I kind of thought ‘what’s the most Christmassy thing I can think of?’ And so perpetually Yule-addicted Gretel and her Christmas-themed gingerbread café were born! From there, I kept sprinkling on the Christmassy-ness.

Obviously, as the title suggests, gingerbread is a running theme through the book. Are you a baker? Or do your attempts mirror those of our lovely main character, Gretel?

Oh, I’m a definite Gretel-style baker! That’s to say if you’re brave enough to enter my kitchen after some baking has gone down, you’ll think there’s been an egg fight in a snowstorm. Think gunk on every surface, enough washing up to sink Santa’s sleigh, and a whole lot of burnt stuff.

Thank goodness we have your delicious samosas, Ritu! I should never be left in charge of the food.

I am thrilled you are enjoying them. Thank goodness for mums passing down recipes, eh!

I have told you this before, but you have found a proper fan in me with your two books so far. (Fan-girl moment that you are here on my blog!) Tell us, what is in the pipeline for the rest of your soon-to-be fans? Any sequels to your two stories, or are you branching out with some new characters in your next book?

I’m currently working on a brand new series which is set on a lavender farm. That may be subject to change, as it isn’t yet under contract. But in the meantime, I’m having a whole lot of fun with it, and in my wildest dreams, I can see it growing into something quirky but wonderful.

The main character in the first book of the series is Bea, who we meet in The Gingerbread Café. In Gingerbread she runs a shop called Lavender & Honey, where she sells produce from the farm. But I have some exciting new plans for her! And I’m hoping that you’ll see some of the characters from A Colourful Country Escape and The Gingerbread Café in that series too. But we’ll see! Fate will decide.

I love this, and cannot wait, Anita!

Do share the gossip on what you’re working on, Ritu. I need more of your fantastic stories in my life.

Aw, thank you so much for asking. Editing on book two in the Rishtay Series is going on, right now, since I had my alpha and sensitivity reader feedback, with a June 2023 release date, to coincide with Pride Month. (Big hint about the content in that release date, there!) And book three is taking shape in my mind and on paper, ready to start writing, soon!

Well, the teapot is almost empty. I am ready to brew another, Anita, but I know you have different places to visit, as your release date is today. I wish you and your beautiful story heaps of luck, and we will have to carry on this conversation when it’s time for the next release!

Thank you so much for visiting, Anita. It’s been a pleasure.

Thank you so much for these brilliantly fun questions and for inviting me on your blog.

My pleasure 😊

So, not only is there Anita’s newest release, but news on a new series to come! I can’t wait!

Now, as I mentioned before, I was lucky enough to read an ARC of Christmas At The Borrow A Bookshop, so let me share the blurb and my review.

The Blurb

Can Gretel find the recipe for the perfect Christmas?

The Gingerbread Café is always full of Christmas magic. Come rain or shine (or even a July heatwave), there’s always a hot chocolate bursting with cinnamon and marshmallows waiting for you. For introverted Gretel, it’s been the perfect escape from ‘real life’. The owner, Nell, is Gretel’s last link to her late mum, and hiding out at the café feels so much safer than making new friends.

So when Nell suddenly passes, Gretel is left heartbroken. Then she discovers that Nell has left the café to her – but there’s a catch. Gretel has to share the running of The Gingerbread Café with the least festive person ever: Nell’s nephew, Lukas. Head chef at the local fancy restaurant, Lukas makes it clear he has no time for the café, Gretel or even Christmas itself, and Gretel’s too busy struggling to save her burnt batches of gingerbread to work out why.

Gretel is determined to keep Christmas alive and make the café a success before Lukas hands the keys over to the scrooge-like developers. But she can’t do it alone; besides an over friendly ferret and a waitress with a secret, the only person she has now is Lukas. Will it take a Christmas miracle to get the pair to finally see eye to eye, or could the ice already be melting?

Packed full of sugar and spice, The Gingerbread Café will tick all the wishes off your Christmas list this festive period. Perfect for fans of Heidi Swain, Jo Thomas and Bella Osborne.

My Review

The Gingerbread Cafe by Anita Faulkner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Many thanks to NetGalley and The Little Brown Book Co UK for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Anita Faulkner is a relatively new author on the block, but, having already read her debut, A Colourful Country Escape, I was brimming with excitement to read her soon-to-be-released The Gingerbread Cafe, and I was not disappointed one bit!
Gretel is stuck in a time warp, replaying all that is Christmas in her life every day because it’s the safest way. Memories she doesn’t want to forget about people she has lost, all attached to the festive season.
And what better place to be able to relive them than in the village’s all-year-round Christmas-themed coffee shop, The Gingerbread Cafe, run by Nell, a person who has been her surrogate mother for many years.
Then illness takes that one person who grounds her but leaves her with a gift she had never expected. the ownership of said cafe. Or rather, shared ownership with Nell’s grumpy nephew, Lukas, an up-and-coming head chef with aspersions much higher than a lowly cafe, themed around the season he hates the most. And worst of all, the Will conditions state that they are stuck with each other and the cafe for a while before they can be rid of one another.
I loved the way this story developed and how each main character found themselves, more and more as the pages were turned,
Gretel needed to learn that she could live in the now and that not all memories had to be lived constantly, and Lukas had to find a way to fulfil his real dreams, not those he was expected to have,
No story is complete with a decent cast of characters, and the village of Mistleton was not lacking, I tell you! The other shop owners of the village, as we came to get to know them, each brought much colour and wisdom to the journey Gretel found herself on, as well as Amber, the mysterious, sort-of waitress, with her strange uniform, and straight-up wisdom, even though her mouth needs to be reined in sometimes.
And then, our villain of the piece, Francesca Wimple, or Swingy Bob, is determined to strip all the local villages of their individuality and character by turning everywhere into franchise-run high streets.
The review wouldn’t be complete if I didn’t mention Angel Gabriel, Gretel’s pet ferret, who plays a starring role in the story with his little squeaks and quirks.
I feel all gooey inside after reading this. I finished it in a day, and now I really want to go to Mistleton, sample all the gingerbread goodies and hot chocolate in the cafe, and visit the other wonderful independent shops that line Green Tree Lane!
A wonderful second book by this author who is fast becoming an instant buy fave of mine!