So, what did we think of the Regency romance?’ Josie asked the members of the book group seated at her dining table.
‘Enjoyable. The characters came to life,’ Maggie said.
Cath giggled. ‘I wouldn’t mind a duke sweeping me off my feet!’
New member Tiffany took a deep breath. ‘It wasn’t my thing at all, I’m afraid. I prefer novels that challenge perceptions and reflect real life. How about something more literary next time? The latest Booker, maybe?’
She went on to enthuse about several prize-winning novels. ‘We could write our own reviews and take turns in reading them out,’ Tiffany continued.
Her suggestions were met with silence and bemused expressions. Tiffany blushed and bit her bottom lip. ‘I mean… only if you want to.’
Josie glanced at the stack of library books ready to hand out as the next read. Cornish Cove Café might not have won any prizes, but it was by an author they’d read before and enjoyed. Frivolous cover illustrations and titles often belied poignant plots. She hoped Tiffany would give it a chance.
Josie cleared her throat. ‘Well, that’s certainly worth thinking about. Now, who’d like a cup of tea?’
After the meeting, while Josie was washing up, her thoughts drifted to three weeks previously. From her bedroom window, she’d watched a removal lorry draw up outside the house opposite and a small car pull into its driveway.
A lad, five or six years old, she guessed, and a young woman got out and hurried into the house. A few hours later, Josie knocked and introduced herself.
‘Nice to meet you,’ the young woman said. ‘I’m Tiffany Meadows.’ She turned to the boy hovering in the hallway. ‘And this is my son, Lucas.’
Bu hikaye WOMAN'S WEEKLY dergisinin February 25, 2020 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Giriş Yap
Bu hikaye WOMAN'S WEEKLY dergisinin February 25, 2020 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
Patchwork PROJECTS
Easy ideas to show off English paper-piecing techniques
Night train to BERLIN
Germany's exciting and varied capital is now reachable by train from the UK
French FANCY
Raymond Blanc's right-hand man, Benoit Blin's favourite bakes
Are you missing out on BENEFITS?
Here's how to find out what you are eligible for
TRAY bien
All-in-one tray bakes, packed with flavour
We took a grown-up GAP YEAR!
Who says taking time out is just for students?
'I'm obsessed with reality TV!'
THIS WEEK'S COLUMNIST Author and presenter Louise Minchin
What to eat and do for A HEALTHIER GUT
Fix those problems and boost your wellbeing
Picture palaces
In an age of cinema complexes, we celebrate five historic and beautiful picture houses that have stood the test of time
'My diet during Bake Off is cake and alcohol!'
Dame Prue Leith on the popular baking contest