My latest really Good Reads

April 17, 2025

Thoughts on

Godmersham Park by Gill Hornsby

The Lying Room by Nicci French

‘It isn’t what we say or think that defines us…But what we do.’ Quote-Jane Austen’ 

I attended the Rye Arts Festival in 2024, at author Gill Hornby’s Event. Gill, with her husband, also a bestselling author, Robert Harris, held a memorable ‘In Conversation’ With… ‘

My friend bought Godmersham Park, and I her fiction novel, All Together Now


Finally, I got to read Godmersham Park, first published in 2022. An Austen Family story that grabbed my attention. Compelling and immersive thanks to Gill’s writing, merging fiction, fact and intensive research into this time in history. A true story of the bond and close friendship between Anne Sharp, a Governess, to Jane Austen’s brother’s children. Jane Austen led a privileged life, whereas Anne Sharp had fallen on hard times and faced isolation, loneliness and many health challenges. A reminder of how class distinction was rigidly defined. A time when men ruled and women’s rights were limited, with a lack of opportunities they could take. I thoroughly enjoyed this gently paced novel.

Next :-

The Lying Room by Nicci French.

Published in 2019

I have not read these crime thriller authors for quite a few years. Ad hoc, I picked this title from my local Library, and I was not disappointed. A fast-paced read where I felt drawn to keep turning the pages. Many twists and turns that kept me guessing.

What an intriguing plot line of a mother, her lover, and her daughter, a tangled web of family and friends that insisted I keep reading. The main character is completely flawed in her actions, yet everyone around her thinks her wise, someone they can share and lean on. I happened to wish her a happy ending, regardless. And I admired her cycling across busy London every day or night! No spoilers from me. Looking forward to more of their latest work.

What are you currently reading? As ever, I would love it if you would share books you recommend. As many of you already know, I enjoy reading a diverse range of genres to include dual time fiction

Second Chances is a poignant, multigenerational tale of connections and community, showcasing the unbreakable human spirit and the hope that can come from taking a leap of faith.

Shorter links to Amazon

UK  https://rb.gy/e1pl

US  shorturl.at/dlyEU

Copies of Second Chances are also available at Ethel Loves Me, Rye Library, or Adams Stationery Shop, Rye High Street, East Sussex. Also, you can order from Waterstones online

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