Review & Interview: 'The Saffron Trail' by Rosanna Ley (2015)

Once, there was a girl who loved saffron. She loved its secrets, its mystery, and best of all, she loved its hint of magic.
After the death of her beloved mother, Nell travels from rural Cornwall to the colour and chaos of Marrakech. Her marriage may be on the rocks, but exploring the heady delights of Moroccan cuisine could help her fulfil her dream of opening her own restaurant.
It's there she meets Amy - a young photographer trying to unravel the story behind her family's involvement in the Vietnam War. The two women develop a close friendship and discover a surprising connection between their own pasts.
This connection will take Nell and Amy on a journey to find their own 'saffron trail' - from the labyrinthine medina and bustle of Moroccan bazaars all the way back home to Cornwall and to the heart of their families' origins.
Rosanna Ley's newest novel 'The Saffron Trail' will be released on the 21st of May by Quercus and I must say it is a release which I have been quite excited about the past couple of weeks! Not too long ago I was contacted about 'The Saffron Trail' and I straight away loved both the cover (it's just stunning!) and the description of the story. I hadn't read any of Rosanna Ley's other novels and definitely looked forward to checking out her work. I was also lucky enough to get the chance to do an author Q&A with Rosanna herself, so be sure to scroll down to read her answers! 
Nell is still trying to come to terms with her mother's unexpected death a few months ago and her husband Callum doesn't seem to understand how difficult it is for her to say goodbye to her childhood home. When he surprises her with a birthday cookery course trip to Morocco, Nell isn't too sure at first but then decides the trip might help her with answering some questions about her mother. Photographer Amy also finds herself going to Morocco to take photos for an upcoming event at the Lyme Regis gallery she works at. She also wants to use the trip to Morocco to hopefully discover more about the disappearance of her beloved great-aunt's son Glenn. When Nell and Amy meet, they immediately hit it off and become friends. Morocco has a lot to offer the two women, but will it bring them the answers they are both looking for?
I was not familiar with author Rosanna Ley or her books before I got the chance to read 'The Saffron Trail', but I'm really glad I was introduced to her work because I really enjoyed this novel. The book focuses on several different storylines which were all interesting and captivating in their own way. There's Nell who is struggling in her marriage with her husband Callum and still has lots of questions about her recently deceased mother; Amy is trying to find a good balance between her work and private life, which is only made even trickier when a handsome stranger steps into it; and we meet Amy's great-aunt Lillian, who has been through a lot in her life and Amy wants to help her find some closure. I straight away warmed to the different characters and their stories and loved reading about them and seeing how it would all turn out.
The book offers a lot of information on and descriptions of Morocco and specifically its cuisine. This, on the one hand, really helped to set the scene and created a specific atmosphere, but some of the descriptions were quite lengthy and a bit repetitive. The book is also quite long (over 500 pages) and I think this could have been less by getting rid of some of these lengthy descriptive paragraphs. The book included quite a few twists which I did not see coming, which only made it even more of an enjoyable read which I didn't want to put down. I have high hopes for Rosanna Ley's other novels and can't wait to pick up another one of her works in the future. 'The Saffron Trail' is a truly captivating and well-written novel which I enjoyed from start to finish; a great read!

Rating:9/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the publisher for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

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Author interview with Rosanna Ley!
I'm really excited to have had the chance to ask Rosanna Ley some questions about her newest release 'The Saffron Trail', which you can find below. Thanks so much, Rosanna, for being willing to take part in this short interview! :)

Can you tell us something about your new novel, ‘The Saffron Trail’? The main characters in the novel are Nell and Amy who meet in one of those perfect and tranquil riads in Marrakech. Nell is learning about Moroccan cuisine and Amy is a photographer. They become friends and the novel follows their journey as they try to untangle their lives and their relationships and as they attempt to uncover the mysteries and strangely connected secrets of their pasts. In order to do this they travel to Essaouira, to a saffron farm in the foothills of the Atlas mountains and then back to Roseland in Cornwall and Lyme Regis in Dorset. At the heart of the mystery and of the story are the threads of red gold which are saffron...
Where did you get the inspiration for your novel? Is it in any way based on your own experiences? The first inspiration came from saffron itself – from wanting to find out about how it is grown, how it has been used over the centuries, why it is such a ‘secret spice’ and why it is so much more expensive than gold... I visited Morocco because it is one of the best producers of saffron and realized that the labrynthine nature of the medina leading to the heart of the riad, echoed the tangled relationships and inner truths that I wanted to write about. And no, it’s not based on any of my own experiences, apart from things that happened while I was actually there in Morocco, researching the novel. For example, we were taken into the Jewish quarter in much the same way as Nell, with very similar results!
Can you tell us a bit more about the main characters, Amy and Nell? Nell is a girl who loves saffron. She has always been very close to her mother and when her mother dies at the start of the novel, she feels incredibly lost and alone, which adds to the pressure on her marriage. Her ambition is to open her own restaurant and she would love to find out all the secrets that her mother has kept from her over the years and which she fears may now be lost to her. Amy seems fearless and independent to Nell, but in fact she too has her own vulnerabilities and is finding it hard to build confidence in her work as a photographer and to trust a man. Amy’s mother is busy and doesn’t realize how much Amy needs her time and attention; as a result Amy has grown very close to her great aunt Lillian. When Jake Tarrant visits the gallery where Amy works in Lyme, sparks fly...
There’s a great cast of supporting characters in the novel as well. Which character did you most enjoy writing? I enjoyed them all in different ways. Lillian was great because she has such a deep history and so much has happened to her; she has suffered a great loss but is a survivor. Glenn was interesting because of his views and the decisions he made and because it allowed me to write a bit about the Vietnam war. But I think my favourite was Amy – she just flowed!
Did you do any particular research for parts of the book? Lots! Places obviously – Marrakech, Essaouira, the Saffron Farm and waterfalls in the Atlas mountains, Roseland in Cornwall. The hippie trail and where people went at this time in the late sixties. The history of the Vietnam war. Moroccan design and cuisine. Bridport and the GIs during the second world war. And saffron.
Can you perhaps tell us something about your future plans? Are you perhaps already working on a next novel? Yes! I am writing a novel set in Cuba and Bristol, working title ‘The Last Rumba’. One of the themes is power in relationships and how it can be used and abused. One of my characters is a magician and I have fallen ridiculously in love with him...
Do you have any tips for aspiring writers? Don’t be in a hurry. Take time to read, think, dream, plot, plan. Write not what you know but what you want to explore. Let the idea for your story compost. Create a space for it. Then write (every day if possible) as spontaneously as you can. Edit ruthlessly. Never give up.
What is the last book you read that you’d like to recommend to others? ‘We are all totally beside ourselves’ by Karen Joy Fowler. Cleverly structured, well written and thought provoking.
Which book could you not live without? A book of poetry by John Donne (but these days it is mostly in my head).
And last but not least, if you had to describe ‘The Saffron Trail’ in just three words, which words would you pick? Lost and Found.

Review & Interview: 'Chasing Athens' by Marissa Tejada (2014)

In Athens, Greece where rich culture and a crippling crisis collide, a heartbroken American ex-pat is inspired to stay after her new husband literally walks out on her. That abrupt decision leads her to through a humorous, touching and cultural journey that forces her confront her disappointing past and redefine the true meaning of home.
When Ava Martin’s new husband unexpectedly ditches her months after they’ve relocated across the world to Greece, the heartbroken American ex-pat isn’t sure where home is anymore. On the verge of flying back to the States with her tail between her legs, she makes an abrupt decision to follow her gut instead and stay on in Greece. She soon discovers that the tumultuous, culture-rich Mediterranean country is coloring her life in a way no place else can, changing her forever. But is it where she belongs?
Ava’s newfound independence throws her into the thick of Athenian reality, where she has brushes with violent police riots and gets a taste of both the alluring islands and the city nightlife. Despite pressure from her mother, uncertainty over her impending divorce, and unresolved issues with her long-estranged father weighing on her, she’s determined to make it on her own. With the help of two very colorful Greek friends, she laughs and learns while facing culture shock, language barriers and the charm of Mediterranean men, until a life-threatening medical emergency back home in sleepy Ithaca, N.Y., forces her to decide where she truly belongs—and what truly matters.
If you ask me, one of the best things about books is that they offer readers the chance to travel to places they might never get to visit in real life. I've been to amazing locations such as New York, Hawaii, Hogwarts, Rome... All thanks to some fabulous authors who managed to have these places come alive on paper. When I was contacted by author Marissa Tejada about possibly reviewing her novel 'Chasing Athens', which was released by Musa Publishing in April 2014, I straight away looked forward to picking up this read. Not just because it promised to be a fun chick lit read, but also because of its scene setting: Athens. I've never been to Greece, so I was excited to travel into the world of main character Ava and give the novel a chance! I'm also excited to welcome Marissa Tejada to the blog today for an author Q&A, so be sure to scroll down!
Thirty-year-old Ava Martin has left her family, job, and friends behind in New York to start a new life with her husband Greg in Athens, Greece. She tries her best to learn the language and to make new friends, but then Ava's life is suddenly turned upside down again when her husband announces he wants a divorce and leaves her all alone in Athens. Ava isn't sure what to do, should she head back home to New York and try to pick up her old life, or should she give Athens a chance and build a new life, focusing on just herself and what she wants for a change?
I really enjoyed reading 'Chasing Athens' since it has all the necessary elements for an entertaining women's fiction read: a protagonist readers will be able to relate to, a fun group of secondary characters, a captivating storyline and, always a nice extra, a great scene setting. The book is set in Athens, and it is obvious from the detailed descriptions and authentic feel that the author is familiar with the city herself. I've personally never been to Athens, but could easily imagine myself walking down the streets, tasting the Greek atmosphere, and this really added something to the reading experience as a whole. 
Ava is an interesting protagonist and I'm sure numerous readers will be able to relate to her in one way or another. She's dealing with a divorce/break-up and trying to find her own way in a strange city. She's on this emotional rollercoaster and she not only gets to discover Athens, but she also goes on a journey of self-discovery, trying to see what she wants from life. The book also includes a fun cast of secondary characters, including Ava's Greek friends Nikos and Eleni. As mentioned before, this book basically has everything for it to be a thoroughly enjoyable read and I look forward to hopefully picking up more of Marissa Tejeda's books in the future!

Rating:8,5/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the author for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

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Author interview with Marissa Tejada!
I'm really excited to share my author interview with Marissa Tejada, author of 'Chasing Athens', with all of you today! :)

Can you tell us something about your novel, ‘Chasing Athens’? Here’s a little synopsis:
In Athens, Greece where rich culture and a crippling crisis collide, a heartbroken American expat is inspired to stay after her new husband literally walks out on her. That abrupt decision leads her through a humorous, touching and cultural journey that forces her confront her disappointing past and redefine the true meaning of home.
Where did you get the inspiration for your novel? Is it in any way based on your own experiences? From my first year living abroad as an expat, I knew I wanted to write something about my experiences.  I love romantic comedies and women’s fiction so it was natural for me to write within those genres.  I found out quickly that Greece is a place of beauty within its culture, people, destinations and traditions. However, not every Greek moment is perfect and I wanted to portray that too. It’s a time of crisis, uncertainty and desperation. As a woman living abroad, all of these extremes pull together creating an experience that I has made me who I am today and influenced me to write Chasing Athens.
As for my own experiences, I had to make the tough decision whether or not I should stay on in Greece. I had a marriage that fell apart while I was living abroad and while I was planning on going back to the U.S., a big part of me was telling me to stay in Europe --although many factors were influencing me otherwise.  I think that feeling of belonging to a place can be an unexpected surprise.  When we live abroad, out of comfort zones, we learn so many things about ourselves that would have never been uncovered. 
Can you tell us a bit more about the main character, Ava? Ava was sheltered much of her life with a lot of family drama surrounding her upbringing so she had a lot to learn from the start of the book where she found herself suddenly as a newly and fully independent women living abroad.  She learns to rely on people that care for her and that opens up a whole new world and helps her to move on and figure out the life that she wants to lead.  She has her insecurities and not “seeing the reality” of a situation gets her in trouble.  However, she’s open-minded and fun.
Can you also tell us a bit more about the cast of supporting characters in the novel? Which character did you most enjoy writing? Ava has two best friends named Nikos and Eleni who help her through her crisis and show her the ups and downs of Greece through their eyes as Athenians.  I really loved writing Nikos and Eleni into the story.  Nikos is a great guy best friend. Eleni, to me, is the strong Greek woman personality that does not take no for an answer.  She is actually based on a friend of mine.  Her “gusto” gives some scenes a lot of color. 
Did you do any particular research for parts of the book? I did do some research on Mexican culture since Ava’s heritage is part Mexican.  I also had to rely on my Greek friends to help me with the Greek phrases and expressions I used.  I wanted it to be as authentic as possible. I suppose traveling to some of the places mentioned in the book like Hydra island, Mykonos island and destinations in Athens would be considered research too!  
Can you perhaps tell us something about your future plans? Are you perhaps already working on a next novel? I am working on a continuation of Chasing Athens.  I’d love to complete Ava’s expat journey.  I love that readers have told me that they would love to know what happens next too.
Do you have any tips for aspiring writers? I’ve come to relish a piece of advice from writers much more experienced than me when it comes to getting published: set realistic goals and expectations for your book to define what success means for your book. Every writer has a different story, different goals and dreams when it comes to setting their first book out into the world.  Define those goals and don’t compare them with anyone else’s. Your goals are your own and can only be defined by you.
What is the last book you read that you’d like to recommend to others? I really enjoyed reading Romancing Miss Bronte by Juliet Gael. I don’t read much historical women’s fiction but this one drew me in completely and I learned so much about Charlotte Bronte’s amazing life as a woman author during her time.
Which book could you not live without? Ah, so many! If I had to choose one I’d have to say The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck. I love his writing and this novel in particular is an absolute favorite of mine.
And last but not least, if you had to describe ‘Chasing Athens’ in just three words, which words would you pick? Humor. Culture. Self-Discovery.

Thanks so much, Marissa!

Review & Interview: 'Check Your Privilege' by Ella Vincent (2014)

From the outside Nancy’s life is pretty funny. Or anyway that’s how Jonny see’s it when he meets her in a pub one night after her date doesn’t show up. As a single, working mother living in a happy home of chaos with a gay ex-husband and a band of demanding friends to contend with, can Nancy even fit anyone else into her life? Even someone as gorgeous and funny as Jonny. 

A heartwarming, hilarious London romcom tale with a touch of Christmas sparkle. 

If you like Mhairi Mcfarlane or Helen Fielding, you'll love new romcom writer Ella Vincent.

Earlier this year I was contacted by author Ella Vincent about possibly reading and reviewing her novel 'Check Your Privilege', a heartwarming romantic comedy set in the city of London. The blurb indicated that fans of Mhairi Mcfarlane and/or Helen Fielding would enjoy this read, and as a big chick lit fan I couldn't say no to a promise like that one! I looked forward to giving 'Check Your Privilege' a chance and had my fingers crossed for an enjoyable chick lit read! If you want to know more about Ella Vincent and her novel, be sure to scroll down and read the author interview I got to do with her,

Thirty-something Nancy Shufflebottom used to be happily married to her husband Adam, but after Adam announced he actually preferred men to women and moved in with his boyfriend Stephen, Nancy found herself alone again. As a hard-working paediatric nurse and a single mum to her two kids Matilda and Felix, Nancy finds it difficult to make ends meet. However, she knows she has to make the best of it and with the support of her best friend Alice, she knows it's time to get back out there and start dating again. Yet, the world of dating is a tricky place and soon Nancy finds herself wondering whether it's worth the hassle, while also trying to juggle taking care of the kids, her job, her group of demanding friends, and her ex-husband's wishes.

After having read 'Check Your Privilege', I have to agree with what is mentioned in the description of the novel: a heartwarming London romcom tale, which I really enjoyed. Ella Vincent has managed to create a lovely group of characters who really complement one another and add something to the storyline as a whole. Main protagonist is Nancy Shufflebottom and she's incredibly likeable; a single mum trying to get back out there in the field, while trying her very best to not only take care of her kids, but also her friends. Matilda and Felix, Nancy's children, were just too cute and funny, and I also really liked Alice, Nancy's best friend, and Jonny, the aspiring musician Nancy meets on a night out. Most of the characters had their own part in the storyline and this made the story even more interesting and fun to read.

Due to the topics the novel deals with, mainly the life of a thirty-something single mother, I am sure many readers will be able to relate to the characters and the story. It's very realistic, quite amusing and heartwarming at places, and has a nice and comfortable writing style that urged me to just keep on reading. I do have to say I think the book could have a more catchy and better-fitted title and book cover, since this would definitely benefit the wonderful story inside, in my opinion. Overall, 'Check Your Privilege' is a real, fun, warm chick lit read; if you're looking for a new romantic comedy to pick up, this is definitely one to consider!
Rating:8,5/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads

Thanks to the author for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

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Author interview with Ella Vincent!

I'm really happy to have author Ella Vincent on the blog today for an author interview. Below you will find some more information on her novel 'Check your Privilege', her inspiration, and her future plans as an author!
Can you tell us something about your novel, ‘Check Your Privilege’? The story is centred on single mum Nancy who has enough to deal with without worrying about her love life too. Whilst forcing herself to date men she’d rather not, she sparks up a friendship with the gorgeous Jonny.  Despite the whirlwind of her ex-husband’s gay marriage and her best friend’s breakdown around her, Jonny serves as a beacon of light in her life.
Where did you get the inspiration for your novel? Is it in any way based on your own experiences? Not especially.  I have young children so I know what that’s like, but Nancy’s life is much tougher than mine.  However I wanted to write a chicklit novel that was a bit more realistic when it came to looking at the real issues women face today, like money, kids and work rather than lipstick and handbags. 
Can you tell us a bit more about the main character, Nancy? A little but feisty, a lot of fun and very warm.  She copes with a lot but just gets on with it.  I think a lot of people aspire to be a bit more like Nancy. 
There’s a great cast of supporting characters in the novel as well. Which character did you most enjoy writing? Her best friend Alice is a lot like Nancy but a bit spikier and tends to say it like it is.  I liked writing the dialogue between the two of them especially.
Did you do any particular research for parts of the book? Nancy works as a paediatric nurse, a role I know nothing about. Luckily I have a friend who has the same job and filled in the blanks where I was unsure. 
Can you perhaps tell us something about your future plans? Are you perhaps already working on a next novel? I’m currently working on my second romcom.  It’s called 'Out There Somewhere' and it’s the story of a young woman who has spent years pining for The One That Got Away.  When she loses her job she decides to break the habit of a lifetime and go around the world, with a secret plan to hunt him down.  
Do you have any tips for aspiring writers? Read and write as much as you can.  And read Stephen King’s On Writing too. 
What is the last book you read that you’d like to recommend to others? I’m just finishing Zadie Smith’s 'White Teeth'.  I’m amazed that she wrote the book when she was so young and had such an insight into humanity at that age, it’s a fabulous read.
Which book could you not live without? Once I’ve read a book I don’t tend to revisit it. As a teenager however I couldn’t have lived without 'Deenie' by Judy Blume. I must have read that book a thousand times. 
And last but not least, if you had to describe ‘Check Your Privilege’ in just three words, which words would you pick? Funny, Fresh and Warm.
Thanks so much, Ella!

Review & Interview: 'High Heels and Bicycle Wheels' by Jane Linfoot

Meet Bryony: she’s a fun-loving, very single TV production assistant whose idea of sport is the Jimmy Choo sales scrum.
Meet Jackson: Cycling’s bad boy superstar. Injured and out of a certain race this summer, without his training, he’s looking for another distraction…
Bryony’s facing a triple whammy – her last single friend just named the day, her mother’s offering to have her eggs frozen, and the guy she’s loved from afar, forever, has just got hitched. So she’s more than happy to accept the offer of a totally out of character but seriously steamy one night of no-strings fun. Especially when the guy in question is so attractive he even looks good in Lycra!
Jackson’s on the lookout for a new career but if the opportunity to work on TV means a fortnight with the most uptight woman in the world, he’d rather not bother. He never goes in for seconds – and who in their right mind would head off in a campervan, with a woman who irons her knickers?
Add in a tandem (yes a tandem) and fast forward to double trouble for a summer neither of them will ever forget!
The lovely Jane Linfoot contacted me herself about possibly reviewing her latest release, after I had reviewed her other novella 'The Right Side of Mr. Wrong' (click here to read my review). ‘High Heels and Bicycle Wheels’ was released by digital imprint Harper Impulse on the 10th of July 2014 and promised another steamy romance from Jane Linfoot, and I was quite curious to check it out , especially after having read many positive things about the novel on Twitter! 
Bryony works as a TV production assistant, a job she’s really good at and loves. When it comes to her love life, however, things aren’t going that smoothly. All of her friends are getting hitched and her mother is even talking about freezing Bryony’s eggs, because it might take a while before she meets her Mr. Right. Then Bryony is forced to work together with famous cyclist Jackson Gale who is trying to start a TV career. Jackson is always on the look-out for a night of fun and there’s something about feisty Bryony that attracts him. The chemistry between them is undeniable and it doesn’t take long before they end up in bed together. But then the TV station decides Bryony and Jackson work so well together, they have to spend the entire summer making a new TV series, something which neither of them is looking forward to...
For those of you who read Jane Linfoot’s ‘The Right Side of Mr. Wrong’, the protagonist of this novel will be a familiar face. Bryony is actually Brando’s younger sister, and I was really excited to find out Jane Linfoot decided to write an entire book about her! Just like her other stories, this one is quite a steamy read with two intriguing main characters at its core. Bryony is feisty and independent but struggling with trust issues because of her background, and Jackson is handsome but quite full of himself and dealing with his own troubles. The sexual tension between the two is great and the banter definitely made for some entertaining scenes. Next to that, the book has quite an original plot and even though I am not a professional cycling fan at all, Jane Linfoot really managed to turn this topic into something fun.  
I really enjoyed the fact that the story is told from both a female (Bryony’s) and a male (Jackson’s) perspective, so the reader gets to discover more about the characters and the reasons for their actions. I have to say I did think the story was perhaps a bit too slow-paced and the game between Bryony and Jackson took quite a long time. If the book had been shorter and the story had progressed a tad faster, I think I would have enjoyed it even more. Overall, ‘High Heels and Bicycle Wheels’ is another steamy and enjoyable Jane Linfoot read; a story to pick up if you’re looking for something fun, light-hearted and sexy! Rating:

7/10

  For more information about this book: Amazon.co.uk / Amazon.com / Goodreads
Thanks to the author for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

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Author interview with Jane Linfoot!
I'm really excited to welcome Jane Linfoot to the blog today to answer some questions about her lovely new novel 'High Heels and Bicycle Wheels', her future plans and her own favourite reads!

Can you tell us something about your novel, ‘High Heels and Bicycle Wheels’?

In 'High Heels & Bicycle Wheels', we meet TV production assistant Bryony, from 'The Right Side Of Mr Wrong'. So the most unsporty girl on the planet, is thrown together with hot, complex, pro cyclist, Jackson, whose demons are overtaking him. A sizzling one night stand is inevitable, but neither of these defiantly single people expected to meet up again, least of all for a two week road trip. Think camper vans, beaches, and one long, hot, summer that will change their lives forever. This is sexy chick lit, with a whole lot of humour and emotion thrown into the mix. 

Where did you get the inspiration for your novel? Is it in any way based on your own personal experiences?

 As a writer you find inspiration anywhere and everywhere, but often ideas begin with a tiny real life moment, and then grow from there. Bryony was demanding her own story, and then one day when I was out at a cycling race in Lincoln, I saw a TV crew running around the town, with a blonde presenter, in high heeled trainers, interviewing the riders. Kerching! I knew instantly that Bryony was going to be working on a sports programme, and interviewing a cyclist. I do admit to being inspired by a set of pictures of David Gandy wearing very little at this point. Enter Jackson Gale... I like weaving my own experiences into the story, because it enables me to give a truly authentic feel. Bryony’s terror on the tandem was based directly on my own experiences, and I did once have a camper van too.

Can you tell us a bit more about the main protagonist, Bryony?

Bryony marched onto the page fully formed in 'The Right Side Of Mr Wrong' and she refused to go away until I’d given her a story of her own. Bryony is a fun loving, determinedly single TV production assistant, who is used to charming people to do exactly what she asks, but beneath her dynamic, confident exterior she has a lot of issues. She’s also nursing a secretly breaking heart, as the guy she loved from afar has just got married. Then she’s thrown together with Jackson, and for the first time in her life, she’s going head to head with a guy who is just as strong as she is, who she fancies the pants off. So it’s fast forward, to double trouble.

There’s a great cast of supporting characters in the novel as well. Which character did you most enjoy writing?

I loved writing Bryony’s best friend Cressy, because she’s so different to Bryony, and such fun. Cressy is demanding a book of her own, which she may just get sometime soon. It was also great to have Shea and Brando back on the page again (from 'The Right Side Of Mr Wrong'), because I really enjoy them. Brando has mellowed, but he still has plenty to learn. This is a stand alone book, which you can enjoy even if you haven’t read The Right Side Of Mr Wrong yet.

Did you do any particular research for parts of the book?

Bryony has a fab shoe collection, which was the perfect excuse for hours of online research, and lots of visits to drool over the shoes in Harvey Nics. Some research is SO arduous ;)

Can you perhaps tell us something about your future plans? Are you perhaps already working on a next novel?

I have two first drafts I’m working with, and another two novels at the post-it stage. With a new project I like to have a well worked out structure, and I get to know my characters as well as I know my best friends. Then I begin to write.

Do you have any tips for aspiring writers?

Writing is a solitary activity, but joining a writing group, either online, or locally, can help a lot. If you find the right group for you, you’ll get tips, support and inspiration. Try to write something every day – and luckily jokey emails to friends do count as writing. And never give up.

What is the last book you read that you’d like to recommend to others?

Easy to answer. I just finished 'Stable Mates' by Zara Stoneley. I love Zara’s writing, and this is a fabulous romp of a book, with some great characters, and a brilliant story. If you haven’t read it already, grab it! Now!

Which book could you not live without?

Too hard to answer.

And last but not least, if you had to describe ‘High Heels and Bicycle Wheels’ in just three words, which words would you pick?

Hot summer fun.

Thanks so much, Jane! :)

Review & Interview: 'Solomon's Tale' by Sheila Jeffries (2013)

The story of a little cat who saved a family in crisis.

Solomon’s story began one stormy night…

Found on the doorstep in the middle of a thunderstorm, Solomon enters the King family as a tiny, wet ball of fur. But as his new owner Ellen coaxes him back to life, it becomes clear
that he is no ordinary cat.

Wise beyond his years, this little black and white kitten becomes the family’s protector. As Ellen and her young son deal with abuse, homelessness, and the loss of everything they
hold dear, it is Solomon who brings light to the darkest times.

Inspiring, moving and heartbreaking, ‘Solomon’s Tale’ is the story of an extraordinary cat who is the most faithful of friends. The perfect read for fans of ‘A Street Cat Named Bob’.

When I was contacted to review Sheila Jeffries’ novel ‘Solomon’s Tale’, which was released by Avon on the 21st of November 2013, I at first wasn’t too sure whether I would enjoy this book. I’m not an incredibly big lover of cats or animals in general, and this novel seemed to be a big stretch from the genre I usually go for (chick lit). However, somehow the sound of little cat Solomon and his tale caught my interest (I promise it wasn’t just the pretty glitter on the cover of the book), and I decided to give it a chance, seeing it as an opportunity to step away from my trustworthy chick lit novels and try a new flavour for a change!

Solomon is a black-and-white cat who has led a good life as the pet of young girl Ellen. He is now part of the spiritual world, where he is given the challenge to go back to earth and back to his former owner, Ellen, who is now a grown woman and struggling in her life. Solomon doesn’t have to think twice about this and tries everything he can to find his way back to Ellen to help her through the difficult times.

As the blurb already shows, ‘Solomon’s Tale’ is quite a unique story, mainly because it is told from a completely different perspective, namely that of a cat. Next to that, spirituality and the topic of reincarnation take on a significant role in the book. Because of these two elements, I wasn’t too sure about this at first, but Sheila Jeffries really managed to convince me with Solomon’s voice and I felt myself wanting to turn the pages of the book, curious to find out whether Solomon would be able to find Ellen and how he would help her. I loved Solomon; he’s not just a cat, but an easily loveable character and I really enjoyed reading about his dedication to Ellen and the relationship between the two of them. I personally like this idea of a pet looking out for you, and whether you believe in this or not, Sheila Jeffries managed to turn this into a thoroughly enjoyable tale.

As I already said, ‘Solomon’s Tale’ is different from my usual reads, but I definitely do not regret agreeing to read and review it. It is an original story that focuses on a different and interesting perspective, namely that of a cat, and Sheila Jeffries managed to write it in such a way that I did not even miss a human voice. ‘Solomon’s Tale’ is a different, warm, light and quick read that is suitable for both adults and teenagers, and I certainly recommend it to animal lovers or people who are simply looking for something else than the average read!

Rating:7,5/10

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I'm delighted to have author Sheila Jeffries on 'A Spoonful of Happy Endings' today to talk about her new release, 'Solomon's Tale'! 

Can you tell us something about your new novel, 'Solomon's Tale'?

Solomon was a special cat, and I felt his story would touch people's hearts. I enjoyed writing it and everyone says they can't put it down. I originally wrote it to help parents to know what to say to comfort a child who is grieving for a lost pet, and I feel it has worked. It's a deep book with a light touch, easy and fun to read, but tackling some big issues like birth, death, re­incarnation and angels.

Where did you find the inspiration for the plot line of  'Solomon's Tale'?

Inspiration has never been a problem for me. Stories queue up in my head. First I get the essence of the story and the characters, then the plot evolves organically as I am writing. I've tried many times to do a plot outline but I never can. I just have to trust that it will come, and it always does.

You've written numerous children's books, but you see 'Solomon's Tale' as a new start. Can you tell us about that?

When I was writing for children I got type cast, always writing a commissioned 'next in the series book '. My best children's books, the ones I was passionate about, are still unpublished, but I hope that is about to change. I've always been interested in spiritual stuff, and it's at last finding its way into fiction, thanks to enlightened publishers like Harper Collins.

'Solomon's Tale' is written from the perspective of a cat. Why did you decide to use an animal's perspective? Did you find it in any way challenging?

A must­have ability for any writer is being able to get inside the mind of their characters, so I didn't find it difficult at all. I am a sensitive person and I can pick up feelings from anything that is alive, even a plant. Cats are highly evolved beings with complex emotions and an innate spirituality that is very pure. Our own innate spirituality has been messed up by education, peer pressure and religion. So choosing a cat as the narrator was actually quite liberating!

I've read on your website that you've already written a sequel to this novel. Can you perhaps give us a sneak peek?

The manuscript is currently on my editor's desk, so I can't give too much away. It's about Solomon's favourite, the tabby kitten who was cruelly snatched away from him. I've had to research animal healing and communication for this book and that's been amazing, and I mean AMAZING.

What are some of your favourite books or authors? 

Marina De Nadous, Kate Morton, Janet Frame, DH Lawrence, Tarjei Vesaas, and poetry.

Do you have any tips for aspiring writers?

Write from the heart. Don't procrastinate but just get on with it, even if you write rubbish you can edit it later. Build a social media platform long before your book is published.

And last, but not least, if you had to describe 'Solomon's Tale' in just 3 words, which would you pick?
Spiritual cat story.

Thanks very much, Sheila! :) 

If you are interested in getting your own copy of 'Solomon's Tale', click here to order it on Amazon now!

Interview with author Melanie Jones!

  

Today I'm delighted to welcome author Melanie Jones to 'A Spoonful of Happy Endings' to talk about her novel 'L'Amour Actually', what inspires her, her second novel, and to give some tips for aspiring writers! 

Can you tell us something about your novel, ‘L’Amour Actually’?

L’Amour Actually follows the trials and tribulations of a young twentysomething woman who moves to France on a whim and a prayer. With no knowledge of life there, apart from the experience of a dreadful school exchange trip to Paris, she sets off  with a suitcase full of dreams and inappropriate footwear.  With only the English Channel to separate them, life can’t be too dissimilar to the UK can it? The reality, of course, is rather different.

You incorporated part of your own life experiences in the book, can you tell us more about that?

I’ve been lucky enough to have led a very full life and I seem to be the sort of person that things happen to so I had a wealth of funny stories which I incorporated into the book. Some of them were changed slightly, some of then were recounted exactly as they happened. A few times during editing a comment was made that some things seemed a bit far-fetched. They were always the stories that were completely true. Sometimes truth really is stranger than fiction

If you had to pick one thing you love most about France, what would it be? 

I think it would have to be the night markets and fetes that are held in the summer. Long tables would be put out in the square and everyone would sit together to eat and drink. Local food producers  would have stalls selling everything from paella (we were in the old Occitan area where the Spanish influence is strong), local wines and cheeses, often some sort of creole cooking. On a beautiful, balmy night you couldn’t be anywhere better. Our village’s Bastille Day fete was always brilliant. It’s featured in L’Amour Actually.

What made you decide to start writing your own novel about your experiences? 

When I lived in France I started a blog. It was my dad’s idea and it was really just done as a record of my life for my friends and family. Within a few months it was getting a thousand hits a month (and not all of them were my mum!). People seemed to like what I wrote. I had always wanted to write a novel. I’d tried a few times in the past but never got very far. When I moved back to England, I was approached by an agent who wanted me to write a ‘counter-intuitive’ book about life in France. I had to go and look up counter-intuitive! In the end, I decided to write more fictional account of my life in France because that way I could be more inventive with the characters but more importantly, not upset anyone. People don’t generally like to be written about.

There’s a great mix of characters in the novel. Besides Mel, which character did you most enjoy writing about and why? 

Tracey, definitely. She’s a great character and I had so much fun with her. She is the only character in the book who is completely fictitious and she sprang into my imagination almost fully formed.  She gave me a great opportunity for some fabulous storylines.  All the other characters were inspired by some of the people I knew in one way or another.

Do you have any plans for a next novel? If so, can you give us a sneak peak about what it will be about?

Yes, the second one is underway. Although I have had lots of requests for another book about France, maybe even a sequel, I don’t want to be a ‘one trick pony’. Writing about France is easy for me and I want to challenge myself a bit. The next book is about a women in her 40s who finds herself suddenly single when her husband leaves her. She has to rebuild her life and decides she wants to track down all the people who were, in some way, important in her life at some point; all the people who left handprints on her heart. It will involve lots of travel so it gives me another opportunity to put down some of the funny things that happened to me when I was an air stewardess.

Do you have any tips for aspiring writers? 

I’m asked that question a lot and my answer is always the same. Get your story down. It’s very easy to get caught up in re-reading and editing every time you open your laptop but that means that the story doesn’t get written. There’s plenty of time for editing once you’ve finished it but if you never finish it… And don’t get too wrapped up with planning. Everyone writes differently, I’m a ‘seat of your pants’ writer. I know where the story starts, a few points along the way, and where it ends but everything else that happens is just as much a surprise to me.  Each November I do a thing called NaNoWriMo - National Novel Writing Month, where you challenge yourself to write 50,000 words between 1st and 30th November. It’s great for training yourself just to write. L’Amour Actually would probably never have got finished if it wasn’t for NaNoWriMo.

And last but not least, if you had to describe ‘L’Amour Actually’ in just three words, which words would you pick?

I’ve cheated a little bit and taken the three words that appear most frequently in my Amazon and Goodreads reviews: Hilarious, touching and brilliant. My own would probably be romance, suspense and humour.

Thanks to Melanie for taking the time for this interview! :) Be sure to check out her fabulous novel 'L'Amour Actually' on Amazon by clicking here!

Interview with Sarah Webb & 'The Memory Box' giveaway!

This morning I posted my review of Sarah Webb's new novel 'The Memory Box' (click here to read it), which was released today! It's a lovely, warm read which I recommend to every chick lit fan, so definitely add this one to your to-read list! I was lucky enough to get the chance to ask Sarah some questions about her new release; you can read the short interview below!

 

 

Can you tell us something about your new novel, ‘The Memory Box’?

The Memory Box is the story of an Irish woman, Pandora Schuster who on the eve of her thirtieth birthday discovers that she may have her mum’s heredity cancer gene, Breast Cancer Gene 1. This sends her into a complete tail spin, and makes her question her life and also the future of her nine-year-old daughter, Iris. Pandora is a single mum and she has never told Olivier, her ex-boyfriend that he has a daughter. So she travels to Paris to find him, with disastrous consequences.

 

Where did you find the inspiration for the plotline of ‘The Memory Box’? Did you incorporate any of your own life experiences in the book?

I’m not sure where the story came from to be honest. I’d read about the breast cancer gene and it just fitted this story. The characters grew and developed as I wrote the book and some of their passions are also my passions – art, family, Paris.

I was a single mum for seven years, so I understood Pandora’s struggle to work and look after her daughter, Iris only too well.

 

Which character in the novel did you most enjoy writing about and why?

Pandora Schuster, the main character. She’s strong and runs her own business, while looking after her daughter and her sister at the same time. I like giving my characters a challenge.

 

You’re not just an author of novels for adults, but have also written children’s fiction. How and why did you decide to start writing fiction, and did you start with writing for children or for adults?

I started writing for children. My first book was called Kids Can Cook and was published in 1996. I’ve written 34 books since then, 10 novels for adults and many books for children. I love writing for all ages and in many different genres. I hope I can continue to do so for many years to come.

 

The Memory Box’ is the second novel that focuses on the Shoestring Club. Can you give us a tiny hint on whether we will be able to read more about Pandora, Jules and the other Shoestring ladies in the future?

I won’t be revisiting the characters for the foreseeable future, but never say never!

 

Do you have any tips for aspiring writers?

Yes:

1. Read – all great writers are great readers. It teaches you so much about plotting, characters, structure and good writing.

2. Write. A lot of people say that they’d love to write if they had the time. Make the time. Stick your bum to the chair and get on with it!

3. Write as often as you can, that way the story stays fresh in your mind.

4. Finish your book. The world is full of half-finished novels.

5. Never give up. If you truly want to be a writer, don’t let anyone or anything stand in your way. And if you fail the first time around, if your first novel is rejected, learn from the experience and write another.

My favourite quotation is this: Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try Again. Fail again. Fail better.

It goes for all things in life, including writing.

 

And last but not least, if you had to describe ‘The Memory Box’ in just three words, which words would you pick?

It’s always hard to describe your own work but I’ll give it a go – how about honest, heart-felt and warm.

 

** GIVEAWAY of Sarah Webb's 'The Memory Box'***

 

I am very pleased to let you all know PanMacmillan has kindly provided me with 2 copies of 'The Memory Box' to give away to some lucky readers! This giveaway is open to UK & Ireland residents.

 

Check out the synopsis of 'The Memory Box' below:

 

Pandora Schuster is about to turn thirty but that’s the least of her worries. In Dublin she has just been tested for a hereditary family illness and, expecting the worst, is desperate for her ex-boyfriend and father of nine-year-old Iris to be a part of her daughter’s life. There are two major problems: Olivier Huppert lives in Paris and he has no idea that Iris even exists. So when Pandora secretly tries to find Olivier during her Parisian birthday weekend, it all ends in disaster.

 

As the agonising weeks until her test results crawl by, Pandora manages to find some distraction with her kind and sensible boyfriend, Declan, and with her fellow Shoestring Club members as they time-share a fabulous new designer dress. Yet matters of the heart are not easily forgotten and Pandora is determined for Iris to know the truth about her handsome, charismatic father. So she creates a memory box filled with photos, letters and mementoes of the magical time she spent with Olivier in Paris.

 

But when the past and the present start to collide Pandora finds herself having to choose between her head and her heart...

 

In order to be in with a chance, please comment on this post explaining for whom you would make a memory box and what kind of things you would put in it, while also leaving your name and e-mail address. 

 

This giveaway ends on the 20th of September 2013 at midnight (UK time). Winners will be chosen at random and will be notified the day after. Good luck! :)