Broadstairs author and journalist Jane Wenham-Jones will be meeting readers and signing copies of her latest novel The Big Five O (Harper Collins), in Waterstones Thanet on Saturday November 30.
The book, which follows the stories of four women about to celebrate their half-century, is set on the Isle of Thanet and mentions real bars, restaurants and shops. In one scene the action takes place in Turner Contemporary and the big birthday party is held in The Pavilion, Broadstairs.
Jane said: “The manager’s name had to be updated at the last minute. By the time I had finally finished the manuscript, Mac Towe had retired and Dan Gaylor had taken over!
“It is always fun to set a novel in my home town,” said the author, whose previous titles One Glass is Never Enough, and Prime Time also had a local setting. “It’s a wonderful place and I like the idea of immortalising the quirkiness of the people and places around me. ”
Asked how others felt about seeing their businesses’ names in print – The White Swan pub in Reading Street, Bodilight in Broadstairs High Street, and The 39 Steps bar and brewery are among those mentioned – Jane said she hopes they are pleased: “Those I’ve spoken to seemed to be happy with it – I don’t think I’ve offended anyone yet but I’m sure I’ll hear about it if I have! It’s always really interesting to hear what readers think – whatever their opinion. I hope shoppers out on Saturday, will come to say hello.”
Jane will be at Waterstones, Westwood Cross 12.30pm – 2pm on Saturday November 30.
The Big Five 0 can also be ordered from Amazon here
Find out more about Jane and her books at www.janewenham-jones.com