Jenny Kane & Jennifer Ash

Jenny Kane: Coffee, cupcakes, chocolate and contemporary fiction / Jennifer Ash: Medieval crime with hints of Ellis Peters and Robin Hood

That autumnal feeling: Mill Grange

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On September 26, 2023

In Blog, Contemporary fiction, Contemporary Romantic Fiction, Jenny Kane, Mill Grange, Romance

The last few years have been quite eventful for me, especially on the novel writing front. It doesn’t seem a minute since I wrote the second book in the #MillGrange series – Autumn Leaves at Mill Grange

Since then, Spring Blossoms has come along, and Winter Fires at Mill Grange was hoisted onto the world.

Writing this Exmoor based collection was a total joy, and although I’ve written four more novels, and eight more scripts, since Winter Fires, the characters’ of Mill Grange will stay with me forever.

As I look outside now, I can see the leaves falling from the oak trees that line the back of my garden – autumn has well and truly arrived. The perfect time, to share a little from Thea, Tina, Shaun, Bert, Mabel, and Sam’s adventures in their Victorian manor house…

Blurb

At Mill Grange, the work – and the fun – never stops! As autumn brings coolness and colour, change is in the air for all at the manor…

Sam Philips’ time in the forces changed him forever. Supported by his friends, Sam is keen to help make beautiful Mill Grange a safe retreat for injured army personnel… but his crippling claustrophobia means Sam is living in a tent on the grounds! Enlisting the help of charming village stalwarts Bert and Mabel Hastings, Tina Martins is determined to find a way to help him conquer his fears. But why does she feel like he is keeping a secret?

After discovering evidence of a Roman fortlet on the manor’s grounds, Thea Thomas is thrilled at the chance to return to her archaeological roots and lead the excavation. She spent the summer with handsome celebrity archaeologist Shaun Cowlson – but now he’s off filming his Landscape Treasures show in Cornwall, and Thea can’t help but miss his company. Especially as someone else is vying for his attention…

Welcome back to Mill Grange and the beautiful village of Upwich, full of larger-than-life characters you can’t but adore.

The sequel to Midsummer Dreams at Mill Grange, Autumn  Leaves has been blessed with several #bestseller flags over on Amazon since its release. I’ve also bee lucky enough to have a number of kind reviews. Here are just a few of the nice things people have said about this instalment of Thea, Shuan, Tina and Sam’s story.

“…Autumn Leaves At Mill Grange’ is extremely well written and I can’t believe that I have left it this long to discover how fantastic an author Jenny Kane is. She grabs your attention and draws you into the story. You then end up becoming that wrapped up in each character and their story that you couldn’t stop reading even if you wanted to. Jenny has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Jenny’s books seems more like a chat between friends than reading an actual book. I felt as though I was part of this story which is all down to Jenny’s characters and her fantastic, realistic and very vivid storytelling….” Ginger Book Geek

“I absolutely loved this story about two archaeological sites, both country house based and two couples and being a huge Time Team fan enjoyed the filming element and subsequent tensions associated with this in the story. Shaun is presenting archaeological shows for filming and is close friends with Sam who has bought a country house which he hopes to use for recovering ex army traumatised people where they can relax, participate and join in the archaeological discovery of a Roman site, unusual for Cornwall. There is jeopardy all round – the young Sophie whose crush on him threatens Shaun’s relationship with Thea. There’s Sam who has a huge phobia about entering buildings and sleeps in a tent outside. Tina whose story I very much enjoyed is working on her relationship with Sam. The story follows many twists and turns as there is a race against time and a competitive film company pitching to film at Mill Grange. Even so all is not what it seems. Will Sam overcome his phobia,; will Sophie see sense; can Thea untangle mysterious occurrences ; will the filming happen at Mill Grange. As in Shakespeare there’s a long way to go before all falls into harmony and the read to find out what happens is compulsive. I highly recommend this start to a new series from Jenny Kane. The plotting and characterisation is flawless.”  Netgalley 

EXTRACT

‘Take pity on an old man, lass.’

Bert fluttered his grey eyelashes as he helped Tina carry a large cardboard box full of tea, coffee, milk and biscuits from her car into Mill Grange’s kitchen. ‘I love Mabel to pieces, but she is driving me mad.’

Tina laughed. ‘But it’s only been two months since the restoration project came to an end. Doesn’t Mabel have heaps of committee work to do? She runs every social club this side of Exmoor.’

As he placed the box on the oak table that dominated the manor’s kitchen, Bert’s eyes lost their usual optimistic shine. ‘Since Mill Grange was sold Mabel’s been so aimless. She led the volunteer restorers here for over five years and now that’s over…’

‘Mabel doesn’t mind Sam owning this place, does she?’

‘Not for a minute. For a little while it was all she could talk about. She’s that proud of your young man for buying the very thing that frightens him. For taking his fear of being inside by the scruff of the neck and buying a house to be enjoyed by other people.’

Tina put her box of groceries on the side and laid a hand on Bert’s shoulder. ‘I’ll talk to Sam. There must be something Mabel could do around here.’ She played with her pigtails as she thought. ‘I’m not sure we can afford to pay her yet though.’

‘You wouldn’t have to. Making her feel part of the team again is all I’m asking for.’ Bert’s smile returned to his eyes. ‘How’s it going here anyway? Sam getting into the house at all, or is he still overseeing things from that screen thing outside?’

‘He hasn’t been inside the manor since he bought it.’ Tina focused her attention on emptying the boxes of biscuits ready for Mill Grange’s first visitors, hiding her…

 

Autumn Leaves at Mill Grange is available from Nook, Kobo, as well as Amazon UK and Amazon US.

Also available in paperback

 

Thank you to everyone who has bought a copy of Autumn Leaves – or any of my books. Always appreciated.

Jenny x

 

NEWS: New novel on the way…

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On September 20, 2023

In Blog, Contemporary fiction, Contemporary Romantic Fiction, Fiction, Jenny Kane, Romance

No sooner has the latest #thepottingshed novel been unleashed upon you, when up I pop again, waving the flag for my next venture.

Summer at Sea Glass Cove

All I can tell you for now, is that my 41st solo book is a standalone read which is due to be published next year (around March/April time).

Set on the Dorset coast, it combines many of my favourite things – museums, the Jurassic coast, archaeology and, of course, friendships. (There might be a few cups of coffee and the odd cup of tea drunk as well!)

The main character is called Lauren – and although I’m sure you’ll love her – I suspect the star of the show will be Shark, the cat…

Stay tuned! The the blurb and cover release aren’t far way!

Happy reading,

Jenny x

 

OUT NOW: Misty Mornings at The Potting Shed

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On September 14, 2023

In Blog, Contemporary fiction, Contemporary Romantic Fiction, Jenny Kane, Romance, The Potting Shed

I’m delighted to be able to announce that the third book in #thepottingshed #series is OUT NOW!

MISTY MORNINGS AT THE POTTING SHED

BLURB

Don’t miss out on the third lovely book in the brand new series by #1 Kindle bestselling author Jenny Kane.

Welcome back to The Potting Shed! As Maddie and Sabi re-open the doors of their family-run garden centre. Business is booming, and it’s time to give back to the community that has kept The Potting Shed afloat, by opening the Forget-Me-Not dementia café.

But, as the doors to the café open, Sabi is offered the chance of a lifetime, that could take her away from The Potting Shed for weeks, café manager Jo’s frail, elderly mother is taken ill, and Maddie’s partner, Ed, takes a job in a faraway city just when Maddie needs him more than ever. A new member of staff is desperately required – who will join Sara, Jo and Ivan as the busy autumn season fast approaches?

Misty Morning is now available from Amazon UK, Amazon US, Kobo, Nook and Waterstones as an ebook or paperback.

You can also preorder the story in audio format: Amazon UK, Amazon US.

It was so much fun going back to The Potting Shed to continue the adventures of Maddie, Ed, Jo, Sara and co. In book three there are new characters to meet – the lovely Belle, Jo’s mother Iris, and the not so nice Tristan!

Florrie, the lively Springer Spaniel/Border Collie cross, is still running rings around everyone, and the children’s gardening group, The Little Acorns, are on fine form as they make home grown smoothies in The Potting Shed’s newest attraction – the Forget Me Not Café.

If you follow me on Facebook and Twitter today, you’ll be able to hear some readings, and keep up with all the new release news.

It’s always a bit nerve wracking when a new novel is  launched. There is a real fear of failing your readership – so I always have to psyche myself up before I read reviews. It was therefore, with great relief, that I found some wonderful reviews awaiting me when I looked at my page on NetGalley.

I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to review. I can’t state enough how important reviews are. If you like a book, do your favourite authors a favour, and pop a little review on Amazon or Goodreads – or whichever platform works for you. While a poor review will break a writers heart (it really does), a good one can make the difference between them being asked to write another book, or not.

I’ll leave you with a few of those lovely reviews. I couldn’t be more thrilled with them.

PRE-RELEASE REVIEWS

‘Oh my, this book gave me such warm and fuzzy feelings! The friendships, love and community caring is literally the backbone of this story and it means everything! I will reread this again. I loved it. And the thought of a dementia cafe is genius! This needs to happen!’  Netgalley

‘I really need to learn that “I’m just going to read a few chapters” of a Jenny Kane book always becomes “I couldn’t put it down and read it all in one day”. I have loved this series from the beginning and it continues to deliver heart-felt and sweet stories. …’ Netgalley

‘Fantastic to be back at the Pottering. Can read alone. Lovely having Belle as a new character. The cakes sounded yummy. Tristan was a character and a half. I loved the twists with him. Happy and sad tears in the book. Maddie is a fab boss. Jenny Kane is a lovely writer.. Dementia is such a difficult subject and it was covered so well.. A great read. Loved it.’ Netgalley

‘Misty Mornings at the Potting Shed, what a sweet, warm installment in the series. I liked reading the progress of the characters – their personal and professional lives getting more and more towards their goals.
It is a warm friendly read, perfect for cosy winter days or just for some good ol reading time.’ Netgalley

‘What a sweet, cozy, heart warming story! This wasn’t what I expected…it was so much better! It really was a feel good community story that brightened my day. I loved the plant aspect, our characters, and the vibe to this.’ Netgalley

‘Thoroughly enjoyed the 3rd instalment of The Potting Shed series. Although this could be read as a stand alone it makes more sense if you have read the first 2. This develops the characters further and get to know Jo better and meet Sara properly. If you haven’t read 1 and 2 then I definitely recommend them and also this one. Great summer reading and escapism.’ Netgalley

‘I truly love this series. I have read all the books and I adore the characters. Even the slightly annoying one has made it into my heart (I won’t mention her name). The author has created a world at the potting shed that I wish I could live in. When they are looking for help to run it, I want to volunteer! They do not even have to pay me. I would love work in the café and to care for the plants also!
I enjoy stories that have characters of various ages, and this book has that quality. Several teens are instrumental to the story as well as some older folks.
This book is a great continuation of the series. Quite a bit happens in these pages, but as always in a sweet romance, all is good by the final page. I really needed an escape from real life and I thank the author, Jenny Kane for providing a place to regain my faith in people. I look forward to future books in this series and am hoping that they will be some!’ Netgalley

‘Jenny Kane has done it again. This was a lovely addition to the “Potting Shed” series. This was absolutely delightful. The plot was well-paced and captivating from start to finish. The characters were charming and witty. I highly recommend this fun and quick read! Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the advanced copy of the book.’ Netgalley

Have a lovely day everyone.

Happy reading,

Jenny x

Opening Lines: Misty Mornings at The Potting Shed

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On September 12, 2023

In Blog, Contemporary fiction, Contemporary Romantic Fiction, Jenny Kane, Opening Lines Blog, Romance, The Potting Shed

Misty Mornings at The Potting Shed is published in 2 days time!!

To help get you in the mood for launch day, I’m sharing the #openinglines with you today.

Following on from the adventures of Maddie, Ed, Sabi, Jo, Jem, Sara, and the team at The Potting Shed garden centre, Misty Mornings sees the arrival of some brand new characters, a new café, and a face from Ed’s past…

Blurb

Don’t miss out on the third lovely book in the brand new series by #1 Kindle bestselling author Jenny Kane.

Welcome back to The Potting Shed! As Maddie and Sabi re-open the doors of their family-run garden centre. Business is booming, and it’s time to give back to the community that has kept The Potting Shed afloat, by opening the Forget-Me-Not dementia café.

But, as the doors to the café open, Sabi is offered the chance of a lifetime, that could take her away from The Potting Shed for weeks, café manager Jo’s frail, elderly mother is taken ill, and Maddie’s partner, Ed, takes a job in a faraway city just when Maddie needs him more than ever. A new member of staff is desperately required – who will join Sara, Jo and Ivan as the busy autumn season fast approaches?

Available to pre-order from Amazon UK, Amazon US, Kobo, Nook and Waterstones as an ebook or paperback.

You can also preorder the story in audio format: Amazon UK, Amazon US.

(Although Misty Mornings is the third book in this series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone read.)

Here are the opening lines… the first 500 words (exactly)… of Misty Mornings at The Potting Shed.

A gentle start before – for at least three of the main characters – everything changes …

SEPTEMBER

Flicking a switch, Maddie flooded the garden centre’s shop with light.

‘Sometimes I forget that this used to be the downstairs of my home. Other days I walk in and immediately picture Dad and me sitting on the sofa, right where the houseplant table is.’

Ed smiled at his girlfriend. ‘He’d love it that so many of the locals visit The Potting Shed these days.’

‘He really would.’ A warming glow of satisfaction filled Maddie as she nodded towards the till. ‘Are you okay sorting the shop float if I go and make sure Jo has enough change in the café?’

‘No problem.’ Ed took a pile of five-pound notes from Maddie and flicked them through his fingers.

‘Great. Once we’re open, I’ll man this till until Sabi has finished walking Florrie, then I’ll go and help Jo in the café.’

‘Do you want me to be on carry-to-the-car duty in between watering the polytunnels this morning?’

‘Please.’

‘After that, if it’s quiet, I thought I’d give the bluebell garden a bit of a tidy. It’s not messy as such but…’ Ed pulled a face.

‘It’s gone a bit straggly.’

‘The lack of bluebells doesn’t help either.’

‘Drawback of it being September.’ Maddie plucked a dead leaf off a nearby cyclamen. ‘I considered adding in a few shrubs, but somehow…’

‘You ran out of time?’

‘Don’t I always.’

‘There’s just so much to do.’ Ed grinned. ‘Maybe you should advertise for another member of staff? Sara’s proving a fabulous addition to The Potting Shed, but she only works part-time.’

‘In truth, I could do with that, and another full-time person.’ Maddie dropped the dead leaf into the nearest waste bin. ‘But we aren’t yet that comfortable budget wise.’

‘Sabi still insisting you pay one loan off at a time before you take on another big expense?’

‘Yes, and I’m grateful to her for it. It’s so much less fraught knowing my sister has a grip on the finances. Means I can get on with the gardening and people stuff, without waking up in the middle of the night stressing about bank managers and spreadsheets.’

‘Good job you have me working for free at the weekends then, isn’t it.’

Maddie slipped an arm around Ed’s waist. ‘You can just rest you know; you’ve had a hectic week lawyering. I love that you help here, but I don’t take it for granted. You might want to go walking on Exmoor, or simply put your feet up.’

‘Don’t be silly.’ Ed shook his head. ‘I love it. And it’s a welcome balm after a week in a cut-throat office.’

‘Cut-throat?’ Maddie saw the briefest flash of unease in Ed’s eyes. ‘You’ve never described your new job that way before.’

Ed brushed the comment aside. ‘Maybe cut-throat is a bit much, but the company I work for in Bristol is a very different type of legal business to Ronald’s laid-back old-fashioned solicitors’ office in Exeter. He was very much customer first.’

‘Thank goodness!’…

As with many of my novels, serious subjects are covered as the characters go along. From the challenges of having relatives with dementia, to the practical difficulties of long distance relationships, Maddie and the gang face every day head on – while being determined to give something back to the community that has supported them while The Potting Shed grew from a small nursery, to the much larger affair it has become.

Obviously, I don’t want to give away any spoilers here – but I can promise the dogs (Florrie and Sheba) will be as much fun at the end of the novel as they are at the beginning. As If I’d kill the dogs! (Readers do email me asking me not too!).

If you’ve not read Frost Falls at The Potting Shed and Bluebell Season at The Potting Shed, you can catch up on the friends previous dramas via eBook, audiobook or paperback from all good retailers.

Happy preordering,

Jenny x

 

And the series continues: Bluebell Season at The Potting Shed

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On September 5, 2023

In Contemporary fiction, Contemporary Romantic Fiction, Jenny Kane, Romance, The Potting Shed

Misty Mornings at The Potting Shed comes out next week!

Before you delve back into the adventures of the friends and family that run #thepottingshed, why not remind yourself of the beginning of the second novel in the #series: Bluebell Season at The Potting Shed.

Blurb

Maddie and her sister Sabi are back at The Potting Shed, but are their troubles over?

Bluebell Season at The Potting Shed is the sequel of Frost Falls at The Potting Shed, part of a new series by #1 Kindle bestselling author, Jenny Kane, that revolves around a family-run garden centre.

Spring has arrived at The Potting Shed and things seem to finally be going Maddie’s way. Her relationship with lovable lawyer Ed is going well and the business is thriving with the help of her new friend Jo and his bright orange coffee van.

But troubles are just around the corner… The upgrade of The Potting Shed from a nursery to a garden centre is at a critical point – turning part of Maddie’s business into a building site, and just as she has to temporarily move out of her home, a major garden centre announces its grand opening only twenty miles away.

With money running out Maddie and her sister Sabi must think fast – they only have until the end of bluebell season to save The Potting Shed…

 

Here are Bluebell Season’s opening lines…

MARCH – Chapter One

Maddie’s breath caught in her throat as she saw the glass panel fall towards the gravel path. A vision of half of The Potting Shed’s new greenhouse roof being reduced to smithereens flashed through her mind as a workman dived forward and caught it a split second before it hit the ground.

‘I can’t watch this anymore.’ Maddie turned her sister. ‘It took us so long to decide whether we should splash out on a greenhouse for my herbs or not, I don’t want to look again until it’s up. It’s too stressful.’

Sabi gave the two men the full force of the haughty glare she reserved especially for tradesmen. ‘Let’s go inside. We’re supposed to be talking battle plans for the nursery’s expansion, and I for one could murder for a cup of tea.’

*

‘You know the greenhouse’s roof wouldn’t have smashed, don’t you?’

‘Logically, yes.’ Maddie placed the biscuit tin in the middle of the kitchen table. ‘No point in paying for reinforced glass if it’s not going to do its job, but instinct still told me it was going to break.’

‘Have you worked out which herbs you’re going to grow yet?’

‘Almost.’ Maddie glanced down as Florrie’s wet nose nudged at her hand. ‘Yes, I know you want a biscuit, but you’ve already had one, and they aren’t good for you.’ She ruffled the puppy’s black and white fur, before returning to the point. ‘I’ll start by increasing production of the herbs I already grow. All the favourites: thyme, mint, chives, parsley, and such. But I also want to produce some less common varieties too. See if I can tempt people to be braver in their tastes. Borage definitely – it’s good in a jug of Pimm’s; maybe some caraway and chervil.’

‘Not coriander and dill? I use all of those – and basil of course.’

Maddie’s eyebrows rose. ‘You mean Henry uses all of those.’

‘Yes, well, it’s hardly my fault if my husband loves to cook.’

‘You’re a lucky woman, Sabs.’ Patting her sister’s arm, Maddie selected another biscuit. ‘But I’ll leave out those particular herbs for now. They tend to bolt if you don’t keep on top of them, and as we can’t afford to employ any more staff, I want to keep things low maintenance.’

Sabi delved a hand into her massive handbag, pulled out a state-of-the-art tablet, and opened it at a list of jobs that needed doing. ‘Maybe we should have ordered a bigger greenhouse.’

‘Anything bigger wouldn’t have fitted between the first polytunnel and the path to the car park.’

‘I still can’t see why it couldn’t have been built on the scrap of land at the far side of the nursery.’

‘Light.’ Maddie bit back the temptation to ask Sabi how many times they needed to have this conversation. ‘While the rear of The Potting Shed does enjoy the sunshine, overall, it’s lighter at the front of the nursery for longer each day.’

Sabi grunted reluctant acceptance of the situation as she pulled a cookie from the tin, brushing a crumb away as it hit her tablet’s screen…

 

If that extract has whetted your appetite, you can order your copy of Bluebell today.

Amazon UK, Amazon US, Kobo, Nook and Waterstones. 

Bluebell Season at The Potting Shed follows Frost Falls at The Potting Shed, and precedes Misty Mornings at The Potting Shed. 

Happy Reading,

Jenny x

Interview with Karen Louise Hollis

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On September 1, 2023

In Blog, Contemporary fiction, Interview, Romance

Today, I’m delighted to welcome Karen Louise Hollis to my blog to chat about her books and writing life.

It’s time to put your feet up for five minutes, grab a cuppa, and find out what Karen’s been up to.

Before we get started with the questions – here’s the blurb to Karen’s latest novel, Starting Again in Silver Sands Bay.

Blurb

Becki is fifty and a single mum to eleven-year-old Jemima, after being widowed five years ago.
Dan is forty-eight and a single dad to eleven-year-old Freddie, after his wife left him five years ago.
They have both given up on love.
But when they all go to Silver Sands Bay on the Lincolnshire coast for the summer, will they be able to put the past behind them and find love again?

What inspired you to write your book?

My most recent novel Starting Again in Silver Sands Bay was inspired by an RNA online course by Jessica Redland. It was concentrating on writing a series set in a village or coastal setting. I had joined it to inspire me for the second book in my Whitlock Close series, which is set in a village. Instead an idea for a completely different novel appeared, set in a coastal setting! This became Starting Again in Silver Sands Bay and a large chunk of the book was written while I was doing the course.

Do you model any of your characters after people you know? If so, do these people see themselves in your characters?

Ha ha! I certainly did in my first novel Welcome to Whitlock Close. The main characters are based on me and my parents in 1981, when we moved from Lincoln to a village. My mum read it and kept telling me things weren’t right. No, it’s not a memoir, Mum, it’s a novel, a lot is made up!  😊

What type of research did you have to do for your book?

For my current novel I’m writing, it has included meals available in posh restaurants and lots of things about guinea pigs!!

Do you prefer to plot your story or just go with the flow?

I’ve tried plotting and it didn’t work, I got bored and lost interest in writing it. I am definitely a pantser, I like starting off with an idea and seeing where my characters take me.

What is your writing regime?

I’m a full-time carer to my mum and a single mum to my son, so everything has to fit around them. I usually have my laptop open on my bed and every so often, I’ll get some writing done. My son’s up late, so it’s not feasible to write when he’s asleep, so just as and when throughout the day. I also write non-fiction books, particularly about gymnastics. The gymnasts I interview live all round the world, so I’m often answering questions from them at midnight.

What excites you the most about your book?

Starting Again in Silver Sands Bay is a book I am really happy with. Usually when I write something, I’m incredibly critical of it, but this one, I’m proud of it. I think it’s a good story and I love the characters. As well as the main couple and their kids, I love Becki’s sister Lizzie and a couple of the more minor characters.

If you were stranded on a desert island with three other people, fictional or real, who would they be and why?

Let’s assume I can’t choose family, because I’ve got five children and I could hardly just choose three of them! So, I’ll have Jamie from Outlander (Sam Heughan as Jamie works too!) because he’s just gorgeous and strong and competent and would make me feel safe. David Tennant because he’s interesting, funny, intelligent and I think we’d have a really good conversation. (And yes, he’s gorgeous too!) And Helena Bonham Carter because I think she’s amazing as an actress, but also a fascinating person. I love her fashion and how she does what she wants, wears what she wants and doesn’t care what people think. We all need to be a bit more like Helena!

I totally agree – we all need to be a bit ‘Helena’! Fabulous woman.

Bio

I was born in Lincoln, England in 1969. I loved writing from an early age, being the daughter of two journalists. I am a mum to five children and have three grandchildren. I have had over twenty books published and have written about a variety of topics including motherhood, poetry, Doctor Who and gymnastics. My first novel Welcome to Whitlock Close came out in 2022 and my second one Starting Again in Silver Sands Bay in 2023.

 

Links

Twitter – https://twitter.com/KarenLNHollis

IG – https://www.instagram.com/karenlouisehollis/

Blog – iheartbooks.blog/blog

Amazon Author Page – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Karen-Louise-Hollis/e/B00NSLQME6?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1&qid=1691933322&sr=8-1

Many thanks for popping by today Karen.

Happy reading, 

Jenny x

A Series Begins: Frost Falls at The Potting Shed

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On August 29, 2023

In Blog, Contemporary fiction, Contemporary Romantic Fiction, Fiction, Jenny Kane, Opening Lines Blog, Romance, The Potting Shed

With Misty Mornings at The Potting Shed only two weeks away from publication, I thought I’d go right back to the beginning of the series, and remind you of the #openinglines of  Frost Falls at The Potting Shed 

Blurb

It has always been Maddie Willand’s dream to take over her father’s plant nursery. But after his sudden death, she is devastated to discover that she might lose The Potting Shed forever.

Maddie’s bossy older sister, Sabi, is joint owner of the nursery, and she’s convinced that the best thing for both of them would be to sell up.

Determined to keep the business going, Maddie can’t afford any distractions, but staying focused might be harder than she thinks. Especially when a major garden centre chain puts in an offer for the land – and her search for legal advice throws her into the path of attractive lawyer Ed…

As frost begins to fall over The Potting Shed, will Maddie find the strength to save her father’s legacy and open herself up to new beginnings?

 

OPENING LINES…

‘That’s settled then.’ Tony smiled as his younger daughter poured a fountain of tea into a row of mismatched china cups. ‘You’ll get the house and nursery Maddie, and Sabi, you’ll inherit your mum’s antique furniture and a portion of the profits from this place.’

Lifting their teacups as one, the Willand family clinked them together.

‘How about a custard cream to seal the deal?’ Maddie waved the regularly refilled biscuit tin towards her father. ‘One or two?’

‘Three.’ Tony laughed as he took a handful of biscuits before passing the tin on to his son-in-law. ‘Grab plenty Henry, or the girls will demolish the lot. I learnt that lesson a long time ago. I once witnessed them consume a packet of chocolate chip cookies in less than two minutes.’

‘A slight exaggeration.’ Maddie grinned at her brother-in-law. ‘We were helping clear The Potting Shed’s far polytunnel. Dad needed it done that day, I can’t remember why now, but there was no time for a lunch break and biscuits were the easiest option.’

‘And we were famished.’ Sabi put her palm up, refusing the offer of a biscuit as the tin continued around the table. ‘Are you sure you want to inherit all that hard work, Mads? I can’t help thinking I got the better deal with Mum’s furniture.’

‘Only because you’ve gone off gardening. Anyway, Mum’s things will look fabulous in your house.’ Maddie gave her sister a hug. ‘I can’t wait to help Dad upgrade The Potting Shed from a nursery to a garden centre.’

‘And I’m delighted to think the place will continue to flourish – or should I say blossom – long after I’ve gone.’ Tony’s habitual smile faded as he stared into his tea. ‘I can’t say discussing changes to my will is a fun way to spend a late Sunday afternoon, but once it’s done we can forget all about it and get on with living.’

‘When do you intend to start upgrading this place?’ Henry flicked through a pile of scrap paper and old envelopes on which Tony and Maddie had scribbled their plans for changing their business – which currently provided seedlings, vegetables, potted bulbs, flowers and herbs to the local shopkeepers and hotels, as well as, at weekends, the general public – into a small garden centre.

‘As soon as possible.’ Tony refilled his teacup. ‘It will take time to build up of course. But, if we are careful not to neglect our current customers, while expanding our range for sale on site, then I know we can do it. Might even have a café eventually.’

‘Sounds fabulous.’ Henry fished another biscuit from the tin.

Quiet for a moment, Tony turned to his daughters. ‘You are both completely sure you’re happy with these arrangements?’

‘Totally.’ Maddie looked at her sister.

‘Absolutely,’ Sabi agreed.

There was a clatter of china against china as Tony dropped his cup back into its saucer. ‘Then tomorrow, I’ll call our solicitor and set the wheels in motion. Then you and I, Maddie, can make a start on our plans.’

You can order a copy of this novel from Amazon UK, Amazon US, Kobo, Nook, Waterstones and all good retailers.

Happy reading!

Jenny x

OUT NEXT MONTH: Misty Mornings at The Potting Shed

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On August 15, 2023

In Blog, Contemporary fiction, Contemporary Romantic Fiction, Jenny Kane, Romance, The Potting Shed

It’s less than a month until the third novel in my #thepottingshed series is published!

Misty Mornings at The Potting Shed continues the story of Maddie, Sabi, Jo, Sara and the expanding team at The Potting Shed garden centre.

While the story carries on from where Frost Falls at The Potting Shed and Bluebell Season at The Potting Shed left off, it can also be read as a standalone novel.

Here’s the blurb…

Don’t miss out on the third lovely book in the brand new series by #1 Kindle bestselling author Jenny Kane.

Welcome back to The Potting Shed! As Maddie and Sabi re-open the doors of their family-run garden centre. Business is booming, and it’s time to give back to the community that has kept The Potting Shed afloat, by opening the Forget-Me-Not dementia café.

But, as the doors to the café open, Sabi is offered the chance of a lifetime, that could take her away from The Potting Shed for weeks, café manager Jo’s frail, elderly mother is taken ill, and Maddie’s partner, Ed, takes a job in a faraway city just when Maddie needs him more than ever. A new member of staff is desperately required – who will join Sara, Jo and Ivan as the busy autumn season fast approaches?

Here’s an extract to whet the appetite: Jo and Maddie are tidying the new Forget-Me-Not café – and Maddie’s niece, Jemima – commonly known as Jem – has had a brilliant idea…

‘You know your niece is a genius, don’t you?’

Maddie hadn’t taken more than a single step into the café when Jo announced Jemima’s brilliance across the room.

‘Of course she is.’ Maddie’s eyes twinkled. ‘Her parents are very clever, and her aunt, well…’A giggling Jemima waved from the other side of the counter. ‘Thanks, Aunt Maddie!’

‘What particular act of genius has Jem dreamt up this morning?’

Jo paused in the act of collecting up stray cake crumbs with a damp cloth. ‘I was chatting to Michael, mum’s carer at Charlton Lodge. They’re desperate for activities at Mum’s care home. Jem suggested we hold a dementia café here once a fortnight or monthly. Although, obviously, if you hate the idea, then…’

‘I don’t hate the idea.’ Maddie looked thoughtful. ‘How do they work exactly? I’m guessing a small group of residents come here, we provide coffee, cake et cetera – maybe an activity of some sort? Or would it just be a change of scene and conversation over a drink?’

‘I’d have to talk to Michael about that – and find out if they are even interested in the first place. But in theory, do you like the idea?’

‘Very much.’ Maddie beamed. ‘Great idea, Jem.’

Jemima threw her ponytail over her shoulder. ‘It’s obvious really. This place is called the Forget-Me-Not Café. Where better to have a dementia group visit? You could get them talking about the old days and the memories would flow.’

Maddie headed to the café’s till. ‘Have a word with the home then, Jo.’

‘I will, thanks.’ Jo’s smile became tight as an unsettling potential consequence of such a café group began to niggle at the back of his mind.

 Memories… what if Mum has one of her forgetful moments? What if she…?

Jemima laid a hand on her friend’s baggy jumper sleeve. ‘You okay? You’ve gone pale.’

‘I’m fine.’ Giving himself a mental shake, Jo waved towards the wall clock. ‘Just noticed the time, that’s all. In ten minutes, those doors will be open, and we haven’t got the bacon and sausages started for the sarnies yet.’ …

If you enjoyed that, then Misty Morning’s is available to pre-order from Amazon UK, Amazon US, Kobo, Nook and Waterstones as an ebook or paperback.

You can also buy the story in audio format: Amazon UK, Amazon US.

PUBLISHED ON 14th SEPTEMBER 2023

These are just two of the lovely pre-release reviews.

‘Oh my, this book gave me such warm and fuzzy feelings! The friendships, love and community caring is literally the backbone of this story and it means everything! I will reread this again. I loved it. And the thought of a dementia cafe is genius! This needs to happen!’  Netgalley

‘I really need to learn that “I’m just going to read a few chapters” of a Jenny Kane book always becomes “I couldn’t put it down and read it all in one day”. I have loved this series from the beginning and it continues to deliver heart-felt and sweet stories. …‘ Netgalley

Happy reading and pre-ordering!

Jenny x

Review: Fyneshade by Kate Griffin

By

On August 4, 2023

In Blog, ghost story /gothic, Historical fiction, review

Followers of this blog will know that I very rarely review books here. Every now and then however, a book comes along that I loved so much, I simply have to share!

(I should point out, I do review all the books I read – but anonymously via Amazon etc)

The book in question is Fyneshade by Kate Griffin. (published by Viper Books)

Blurb

Many would find much to fear in Fyneshade’s dark and crumbling corridors, its unseen master and silent servants. But not I. For they have far more to fear from me…

On the day of her beloved grandmother’s funeral, Marta discovers that she is to become governess to the young daughter of Sir William Pritchard. Separated from her lover and discarded by her family, Marta has no choice but to journey to Pritchard’s ancient and crumbling house, Fyneshade, in the wilds of Derbyshire.

All is not well at Fyneshade. Marta’s pupil, little Grace, can be taught nothing, and Marta takes no comfort from the silent servants who will not meet her eye. More intriguing is that Sir William is mysteriously absent, and his son and heir Vaughan is forbidden to enter the house. Marta finds herself drawn to Vaughan, despite the warnings of the housekeeper that he is a danger to all around him. But Marta is no innocent to be preyed upon. Guided by the dark gift taught to her by her grandmother, she has made her own plans. And it will take more than a family riven by murderous secrets to stop her…

*A SUNDAY TIMES HISTORICAL FICTION BOOK OF 2023*

‘Ingenious’ – THE TIMES
‘A dark, inventive story’ – SUNDAY TIMES

***

Every year I save one or two books that I’m desperate to read – and keep them until I have a holiday. As holidays are rare things in my life, that can mean I sit on a longed for book for ages sometimes. Fyneshade was one such read – it had pride of place on my to-read pile for way too long!

I was fairly confident I’d enjoy the book before I started. Kate’s ‘Kitty Peck’ series is so fabulous, that as soon as I heard she had a new book out, I was determined to read it.

Fyneshade, however, is no Kitty Peck mystery – this is something else entirely, and comparisons would be foolish – beyond them all being well written.  ( The Kitty books, along with Fyneshade, are total must reads for any writers who wish to conquer the skill of the first person tale. Kate nails it!)

Marta – our lead character – is refreshingly different. She is likeable – but totally unlikeable all at once. And she is certainly compelling. It’s been some weeks since I finished reading the book, and I still can’t decide if I warmed to her or not – but I do know I’d read more about her at the drop of a hat.

Mrs Gurney (a character who I loved – and not just because she has the same surname of one of my best friends) was an enigma from the start – and it was a joy discovering her motivations as the tale unfolded.

Grace however, was the character who stole the show for me. With so much going on behind her often closed face and knowing stare, she was simply fascinating. But I’m not going to say in what way – just as details about the men in the story will not appear in this review – for anything I might say would most definitely ruin your read.

The star of the piece, however, is the house itself. Fyneshade. Tucked away in the heart of Derbyshire, I swear I could hear it’s walls thinking as Marta and Grace explored and exploited its secrets. And it has many secrets… and each one of those secrets seems to contain a secret of its own.

If you like gothic reads – this is a must.

Happy reading,

Jenny x

 

 

BLURB REVEAL: Misty Mornings at The Potting Shed

By

On August 1, 2023

In Contemporary fiction, Contemporary Romantic Fiction, Jenny Kane, Romance, The Potting Shed

It’s not long until the third novel in #thepottingshed #series hits the world!

Misty Mornings at The Potting Shed will be published on 14th September.

Following on from Frost Falls at The Potting Shed and Bluebell Season at The Potting Shed, Misty Mornings takes Maddie, Jo and Sara on new adventures – both together and apart.

BLURB

Don’t miss out on the third lovely book in the brand new series by #1 Kindle bestselling author Jenny Kane.

Welcome back to The Potting Shed! As Maddie and Sabi re-open the doors of their family-run garden centre. Business is booming, and it’s time to give back to the community that has kept The Potting Shed afloat, by opening the Forget-Me-Not dementia café.

But, as the doors to the café open, Sabi is offered the chance of a lifetime, that could take her away from The Potting Shed for weeks, café manager Jo’s frail, elderly mother is taken ill, and Maddie’s partner, Ed, takes a job in a faraway city just when Maddie needs him more than ever. A new member of staff is desperately required – who will join Sara, Jo and Ivan as the busy autumn season fast approaches?

Available to pre-order from Amazon UK, Amazon US, Kobo, Nook and Waterstones as an ebook or paperback.

You can also buy the story in audio format: Amazon UK, Amazon US.

Here are some pre-release reviews!

‘Oh my, this book gave me such warm and fuzzy feelings! The friendships, love and community caring is literally the backbone of this story and it means everything! I will reread this again. I loved it. And the thought of a dementia cafe is genius! This needs to happen!‘  Netgalley

‘ really need to learn that “I’m just going to read a few chapters” of a Jenny Kane book always becomes “I couldn’t put it down and read it all in one day”. I have loved this series from the beginning and it continues to deliver heart-felt and sweet stories. ...’ Netgalley

***

I can’t wait for you to step back into Devon’s friendliest garden centre, so you can have a slice of cake in the café, meet new characters, Belle, Tristan and Iris, and raise a glass to their latest community project…

Happy preordering,

Jenny x

 

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