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Veronica Henry was our Guest Editor in August 2010 - click here - to see the books that inspired her writing.
Veronica Henry began her career as a script typist for Radio 4s 'The Archers'.
After two years in Ambridge she became a script editor for Central Television, then jumped over the fence and wrote scripts for ten years for many of our best loved dramas, including Boon, Heartbeat and Holby City.
Her secret wish to become a novelist was fulfilled in 2000. Her fourth novel, An Eligible Bachelor, was shortlisted for the RNA Novel of the Year Award 2006 for A Night on the Orient Express.
Veronica lives with her husband and three sons in a village in North Devon.
This gorgeous festive book sweeps you up in a great big squishy loving hug. A glorious beach hut acts as a haven for Lizzy after she runs away from the stress of Christmas. Will her family realise what they are missing without her there to cater to their every need, and can Lizzy fall back in love with Christmas? I simply adore Veronica Henry’s writing, I smile as I’m reading, and she has the wonderful ability to make feelings, moods and issues relatable. From little tots, charming dogs, and tricky teens, through to a despicable bully, weary mum, and lonely grandmother, the characters fill the pages with a vibrant energy. There is a warmth to the writing that just settled over me in a lovely affectionate embrace. Christmas at the Beach Hut is a book you can curl up with, relax into, and really enjoy, and it is also perfect for anyone who adores Christmas in all its wonderful slightly mad glory. Featured in the LoveReading Christmas Gift Guide.
The brand-new feel-good story from bestseller Veronica Henry - a perfect mix of family, friends and delicious food. So absolutely and completely gorgeous in every way! I do look forward to the latest Veronica Henry, I fairly danced with glee when ‘A Family Recipe’ arrived. Number 11 Lark Hill, Bath sits centre stage in this story, set during the Second World War and 2017. The house connects two tales, two women and the people they love. I read this in one sitting, once started, I quite simply didn’t want to stop. Jilly and Laura became known and loved, each and every character pops with intensity, fully realised, touchable, real. Veronica Henry has such a beautiful touch, she paints an entire world, deeply rich and vibrant, bringing to life thoughts, emotions, heart-ache, joy. I stepped though the pages into Bath, wandered the streets, travelled back in time, and salivating, I even looked up the food market to see if I could visit! I know I say this every time, but each new novel becomes my favourite by Veronica Henry, that is her gift, and ‘A Family Recipe’ most certainly continues that tradition.
This is a christmas read with baubles and bells on, a real, captivating, humdinger of a tale. The gorgeous Honeycote House and Brewery sit at the centre of village life, yet all is not well, financial ruin is just around the corner. If you are an existing fan of Veronica Henry, then it is worth noting that this is her first book, ‘Honeycote’, which has been retitled and reintroduced. I just adore settling down with a christmassy tale when the nights draw in, and yet there is so much more on offer here. Drama, seduction, intrigue, and revenge all sing from the pages, as well as warmth and love. Veronica Henry perfectly tunes human emotions so they feel authentic, the characters are flawed, feel real, and this of course makes them so very interesting. ‘A Country Christmas’ is a fascinating, engaging, and thoroughly entertaining treat, and I loved it. ~ Liz Robinson
One of Our Books of the Year 2017 | Gorgeously affectionate, loving, and generous, this is a read to escape into and really enjoy. Hunters Moon is a forever home, yet the current occupants are selling up and when Belinda takes on the sale, she finds herself becoming emotionally attached to Sally and Alexander. Veronica Henry sets the story so beautifully in two time frames, it feels completely natural to journey back to the late 1960’s as well as spend time with Belinda in the present. I was completely enchanted, both with the characters and the setting in the beautiful Peasebrook. If you are an existing fan, then you will recognise locations and a few of the people you meet along the way, however this can very easily be read as a standalone. I have to say that ‘The Forever House’ is one of my favourite reads by Veronica Henry, and the honey glow of Hunters Moon sweeps you up in a deliciously warm embrace. ~ Liz Robinson
One of our Books of the Year 2016. A lovely, gentle read, full of interesting characters, and at the heart of it all, a rather wonderful book shop called Nightingale Books. In this charming romance, we take a peek into the lives of a number of people, and all have a link of some kind, with the book shop. The range of characters means you dip in out of lives, witness a flirtation here, and moment of drama there. You don't get the chance to know anyone very intimately, rather this is a dance across a world of relationship possibilities. Every now and then Veronica Henry includes a list of top ten books for the characters, ranging from novels set in Ireland, to cult classics, this alone made for an interesting read, and I wondered what type of book list I would have. With some rather neat endings to be discovered, ‘How to Find Love in a Bookshop’ is a delightfully easy and heart warming read. A 'Piece of Passion' from the publisher... 'What’s not to love about a novel that celebrates book shops, bookselling, and the joy of sharing the books that matter to us. When Ronnie first had the idea for HOW TO FIND LOVE IN A BOOK SHOP, I knew she’d hit on something special. Through Nightingale Books, tucked in a little Cotswold village, Ronnie introduces us to a beautifully-drawn cast of characters: Emilia, grieving for her father but hoping to continue his legacy through his book shop; Sarah finding solace among the book shop shelve from a disappointing marriage; and my favourite, Thomasina, the painfully shy, mousy teacher who cooks like Nigella, but has no one to share her feasts with. Nightingale Books plays a special part in their lives, albeit in very different ways. Tender, touching and full of Ronnie’s trademark warmth and joie-de-vive, this is a delicious novel. Sometimes a book comes along that makes you want to pack up your life and live in its very pages. This is exactly that book. I hope you enjoy it.' Kate Mills, Publishing Director, Orion
A lovely, gentle read, full of interesting characters, and at the heart of it all, a rather wonderful book shop called Nightingale Books. In this charming romance, we take a peek into the lives of a number of people, and all have a link of some kind, with the book shop. The range of characters means you dip in out of lives, witness a flirtation here, and moment of drama there. You don't get the chance to know anyone very intimately, rather this is a dance across a world of relationship possibilities. Every now and then Veronica Henry includes a list of top ten books for the characters, ranging from novels set in Ireland, to cult classics, this alone made for an interesting read, and I wondered what type of book list I would have. With some rather neat endings to be discovered, ‘How to Find Love in a Bookshop’ is a delightfully easy and heart warming read. A 'Piece of Passion' from the publisher... 'What’s not to love about a novel that celebrates book shops, bookselling, and the joy of sharing the books that matter to us. When Ronnie first had the idea for HOW TO FIND LOVE IN A BOOK SHOP, I knew she’d hit on something special. Through Nightingale Books, tucked in a little Cotswold village, Ronnie introduces us to a beautifully-drawn cast of characters: Emilia, grieving for her father but hoping to continue his legacy through his book shop; Sarah finding solace among the book shop shelve from a disappointing marriage; and my favourite, Thomasina, the painfully shy, mousy teacher who cooks like Nigella, but has no one to share her feasts with. Nightingale Books plays a special part in their lives, albeit in very different ways. Tender, touching and full of Ronnie’s trademark warmth and joie-de-vive, this is a delicious novel. Sometimes a book comes along that makes you want to pack up your life and live in its very pages. This is exactly that book. I hope you enjoy it.' Kate Mills, Publishing Director, Orion June 2016 eBook of the Month.
For Elodie, returning to Everdene means re-awakening the memories of one summer fifty years ago. A summer when everything changed. Vince and his brother are struggling to come to terms with the death of their father - but they have very different ways of coping. And for Jenna, determined to put the past behind her, the opportunity to become 'the ice cream girl' once again might just turn her life around. But this summer is not all sunshine and surf - as secrets unfold, and some lives are changed for ever ...
Before THE BEACH HUT there was LOVE ON THE ROCKS...When the rundown Rocks Hotel comes up for auction in Mariscombe, Lisa and her boyfriend George make a successful bid to escape and live the dream. But their dream quickly becomes a nightmare. Their arch-rival, Bruno Thorne, owner of the Mariscombe Hotel, seems intent on sabotage. Meanwhile, local chambermaid Molly is harbouring a secret that will blow the whole village apart. Then an unexpected visitor turns up on the doorstep. It seems everyone in Mariscombe is sailing a little too close to the rocks ...
Winner of the Romantic Novel of the Year Award at the RNA Awards 2014. One of our Books of the Year 2013. Intrigue and passion in an infamous setting. A group of passengers come together on the world famous Orient Express with agendas and issues that will affect them all by the time the journey is finished. Funny, passionate and unputdownable - definitely one to pack for your Summer Reading. Katie Fforde, President of the RNA said, "Every year we are astounded by the quality of writing and enthusiasm from our entrants. Their passion is evident in their writing and all can be proud of having been part of the Awards this year. Our congratulations go to Veronica Henry, who is thoroughly deserving of her win and provided the judges with an intriguing plot with some twisty turns that delivered what can only be described as a page-turning novel. All in all a very well-earned win." July 2013 Book of the Month.
The lives, loves and illicit liaisons of the owners and guests in a boutique hotel in Brighton are all revealed in the hilarious 10th novel from Veronica Henry. The author says reading The Long Weekend will be just like having your own mini-break. The bedrooms are luxurious, the food is divine and there will always be a cocktail to hand. And the people-watching will be irresistible! Why not download the Opening Extract and escape?
November 2011 Book of the Month. Sarah Broadhurst is a big fan of Veronica’s books - she likens them to those of a young Jilly Cooper. This one, set in Devon, is funny yet bittersweet, exploring modern relationships with very well observed characters and situations that readers can relate to easily – a highly recommended treat for you or a friend.
August 2011 Book of the Month. Secrets, rivalry, glamour - it's time for the party of the year...The stars are coming out to play in this the brilliant new novel from the author of THE BEACH HUT. But will Delilah's husband Raf be able to resist the temptations of the other beautiful women in his life and will their three daughters slip up? Whatever happens the press will be waiting.
Why not tell that special person in your life just how much you love them and better still why not say it poignantly and affectionately or quirkily and amusingly by tweeting it. Each one of these 140 short and sweet ways to say 'I love you' are eminently tweetable or use one face to face! A beautifully packaged gift for Valentine's Day too.
July 2010 Book of the Month. This is a lovely canvas on which to tell a series of family stories over some fifty years as we follow the interactions between beach house owners and the Devon locals. It’s like a series of short stories but the whole lot comes together in the closing chapter. Warm, witty, eventful, full of secrets, passions, lust and hope, it is a pure joy to read. Comparison: Maeve Binchy, Sarah Challis, Victoria Clayton.
This is so early Jilly Cooper stuff, it’s delicious; Cotswold village life, an influential family and a clutch of over-the-top characters – you’ll love it. Sex, scandal, deceit and lots of surprises all add up to one great big romp. It’s part of a series set in Honeycote – I recommend them all. Comparison: Victoria Clayton, Plum Sykes, Julian Fellows.
A village on the North Devon coast with two hotels, one large and old, the other being planned as an exclusive luxury establishment by two new infiltrators. With lots of cross fertilisation, high jinks and raunchy humour, this is a charmer. Those who know her Honeycote tales will find a whole new set of characters; those new to her have a smashing backlist to devour. She’s great.Comparison: Jilly Cooper, Victoria Clayton, Christina Jones.
I cannot praise this highly enough. It is young Jilly Cooper territory, all jolly super Cotswold folk, throw in a film crew shooting for television, much panting, preening and pouting and you have a most wonderful, upbeat romp with laughter, tears and warmth. She has written three previous novels set in the Cotswolds, all gems but with this one she has surpassed herself.Comparison: Julian Fellowes, Jilly Cooper, Claudia Carroll.Similar this month: Belinda Jones, Jill Mansell.
She's brilliant. I love nothing better than to put my feet up and lose myself in one of her novels. Returning home to Ludlow from a year in South America after her mother's death, Jamie Wilding finds the utterly gorgeous Olivier whom she hasn't seen since she was fifteen and had a crush on him. Of course this isn't the only surprise in store for her and nothing is quiet in the Shropshire countryside. A must for your summer reading.
Veronica Henry novels are always a joy and this one is no exception. Suzanna Blake is struggling to get her life back on track after the death of her child and when her husband suggests moving to the country to run a pub. Even for the seasoned city dwellers, village life is eye opening and certainly never dull! Makes me want to pack up and move to the country, great fun.
Hard to put down. It is set in a rural village in Wiltshire, home to the Liddiards whose family brewery is under threat. As are the foundations of their family, creaking under the many secrets and betrayals hidden within it. Despite the picture postcard setting, there is a fair amount of action going on and it all gets a little complicated. Highly recommended.
For Elodie, returning to Everdene means re-awakening the memories of one summer fifty years ago. A summer when everything changed. Vince and his brother are struggling to come to terms with the death of their father - but they have very different ways of coping. And for Jenna, determined to put the past behind her, the opportunity to become 'the ice cream girl' once again might just turn her life around. But this summer is not all sunshine and surf - as secrets unfold, and some lives are changed for ever ...
Return to Everdene Sands, setting for the THE BEACH HUT, and discover secrets, love, tragedy and dreams in the brand new novel from the bestselling author of A NIGHT ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS. Summer appeared from nowhere that year in Everdene...and for those lucky enough to own one of the beach huts, this was the summer of their dreams. For Elodie, returning to Everdene means reawakening the memories of one summer fifty years ago. A summer when everything changed. Vince and his brother are struggling to come to terms with the death of their father - but they have very different ways of coping. And for Jenna, determined to put the past behind her, the opportunity to become 'the ice cream girl' once again might just turn her life around. But this summer is not all sunshine and surf - as secrets unfold, and some lives are changed for ever...
Before THE BEACH HUT there was LOVE ON THE ROCKS...When the rundown Rocks Hotel comes up for auction in Mariscombe, Lisa and her boyfriend George make a successful bid to escape and live the dream. But their dream quickly becomes a nightmare. Their arch-rival, Bruno Thorne, owner of the Mariscombe Hotel, seems intent on sabotage. Meanwhile, local chambermaid Molly is harbouring a secret that will blow the whole village apart. Then an unexpected visitor turns up on the doorstep. It seems everyone in Mariscombe is sailing a little too close to the rocks ...
With warmth and wit, bestseller Veronica Henry sprinkles a little Christmas magic across the Georgian streets of Bath in this deliciously engaging 'Noella'. From the author of THE BEACH HUT NEXT DOOR.Behind the gorgeous Georgian sweep of Pelham Crescent, Bath, everyone's getting ready for Christmas...At Number 14, Josie Ballard is up to her ears in brandy, raisins and cherries as she battles to make forty Christmas puddings to sell at Bath Christmas Market. Ever since Giles walked out the day their baby was born, Josie has had to work twice as hard to make ends meet. Sacrificing a career as a chef, her famous steamed puddings keep her and her gorgeous baby boy Titus afloat. Almost. So when, in the middle of Stir Up Sunday, a new neighbour in the Crescent complains about the noise that Titus is making, Josie gives him a basinful...Giles, meanwhile, is finding life in the fast lane with his uber-glamorous new girlfriend Rebecca rather draining. With one party blurring into another, he's now wondering if he hasn't made a terrible mistake in abandoning Josie and his child. Isn't it time he grew up, his mother asks, and Giles is starting to agree. So when he discovers Josie has a handsome new neighbour, Giles decides it's time to step up to his parental duties...Christmas just got complicated.
Five of Veronica Henry's brilliant novels, together in one collection. The collection comprises:Just a Family AffairMarriage and Other GamesThe Beach HutThe Birthday PartyThe Long Weekend
Winner of the Romantic Novel of the Year Award at the RNA Awards 2014. One of our Books of the Year 2013. Intrigue and passion in an infamous setting. A group of passengers come together on the world famous Orient Express with agendas and issues that will affect them all by the time the journey is finished. Funny, passionate and unputdownable - definitely one to pack for your Summer Reading. Katie Fforde, President of the RNA said, "Every year we are astounded by the quality of writing and enthusiasm from our entrants. Their passion is evident in their writing and all can be proud of having been part of the Awards this year. Our congratulations go to Veronica Henry, who is thoroughly deserving of her win and provided the judges with an intriguing plot with some twisty turns that delivered what can only be described as a page-turning novel. All in all a very well-earned win." July 2013 Book of the Month.
It is a Quick Read but has the same setting as her big seller The Beach Hut and those fans will undoubtedly lap it up despite its size and simplicity. I think it will do very well indeed. It is also perfect to pass on to anyone who might not be such a committed reader to tempt them into reading longer books.
The lives, loves and illicit liaisons of the owners and guests in a boutique hotel in Brighton are all revealed in the hilarious 10th novel from Veronica Henry. The author says reading The Long Weekend will be just like having your own mini-break. The bedrooms are luxurious, the food is divine and there will always be a cocktail to hand. And the people-watching will be irresistible! Why not download the Opening Extract and escape?
November 2011 Book of the Month. Sarah Broadhurst is a big fan of Veronica’s books - she likens them to those of a young Jilly Cooper. This one, set in Devon, is funny yet bittersweet, exploring modern relationships with very well observed characters and situations that readers can relate to easily – a highly recommended treat for you or a friend.
August 2011 Book of the Month. Secrets, rivalry, glamour - it's time for the party of the year...The stars are coming out to play in this the brilliant new novel from the author of THE BEACH HUT. But will Delilah's husband Raf be able to resist the temptations of the other beautiful women in his life and will their three daughters slip up? Whatever happens the press will be waiting.
July 2010 Book of the Month. This is a lovely canvas on which to tell a series of family stories over some fifty years as we follow the interactions between beach house owners and the Devon locals. It’s like a series of short stories but the whole lot comes together in the closing chapter. Warm, witty, eventful, full of secrets, passions, lust and hope, it is a pure joy to read. Comparison: Maeve Binchy, Sarah Challis, Victoria Clayton.