#Review by Lou of A Cornish Legacy By Fern Britton @Fern_Britton @HarperCollinsUK #ACornishLegacy

A Cornish Legacy
By Fern Britton

It’s time to fall in love with a visit to Cornwall all over again with A Cornish Legacy. Below is the blurb and my review of her latest absorbing book.

Blurb

Escape to Cornwall this summer with the new emotional and uplifting novel from Sunday Times #1 bestselling author Fern Britton

Set by the wild Atlantic coast of Cornwall comes a story about finding home in the most unlikely places.

When Cordelia Jago learns she’s been left the crumbling manor house Wilder Hoo, perched high on the Cornish coast, she wonders if it’s one last cruel joke from beyond the grave.

Having already lost her marriage, her best friend and her career, she’s at rock-bottom. Now she’s inherited a house she hates, full of unhappy memories.

But as she fights with its echoing rooms and whispering shadows, the house begins to exert a pull on her. The wild Cornish landscape, the stark beauty of seagrass and yellow gorse against the deep blue sea, begin to awaken a connection she thought she’d buried forever.

Could she turn around this monstrous wreck of a house – and, along the way, let go of the secrets of the past and heal her heart too?

Review

Cordelia Jago is an interesting character. She doesn’t wear any make-up, is a bit fed up and all is a bit ordinary. She’s also not had things easy, having lost the major thing in life, so you really can feel for her. Things, however, change when she discovers she’s been left a manor house in a will. This manor house, Wilderhoo, like the setting in Cornwall, seems to be quite a character in itself and has quite profound effects on her, which in turn makes things quite thought-provoking for the reader.

What makes this inheritance really different is that Cordelia doesn’t actually want it. She remembers it from another place in time. It becomes quite a mysterious book in that way. It sweeps you up because by this time you want to know why she doesn’t want this big country pile to do up, apart from it being a money pit. Makes you want to read more into what the memories its bringing back as the house then appears to also have a life of its own… It really seems to go with the saying of “walls have ears”. This country pile just knows things and there are conscious and unconscious thoughts that Cordelia then has about it.

The book is succinctly set in both the past and the present, giving a whole picture about what’s been going on. It’s told in a very compelling way, and much like the house pulling Cordelia in, it draws you as a reader into its depths of emotion and life opportunities and life matters.

Fern Britton weaves the seascape, the manor house and the power of memories expertly together, creating a highly atmospheric, highly adept and compelling book.

#EdFringe News – Horny For The End of The World @theSpaceUK #SurgeonsHall #WhatsOnEdinburgh #Comedy @EdFringe

Horny for the End of the World

Venue: TheSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall (Stephenson Theatre)

Dates: August 1 – 22 (not 10, not 17)

Time: (August 1-16) 23:15 (August 18-22) 23:30

See clip at the end of the article…

Gen Z, try-hard, pick-me Ebeth gets dumped the day before everyone realizes the world is going to end. With the time she has left to live, Ebeth obsesses over her humiliating past relationships and unhinged personal philosophies. Horny for the End of the World, an apocalyptic anti-romcom, follows Ebeth through her girly-pop existential crisis, finding growth on her journey of accidental self-reflection at TheSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall this August.

Written by and starring award-winning, New York based actress and Tribeca Film Festival Alumna, Tatienne Hendricks-Tellefsen in her Edinburgh Festival Fringe debut. Horny for the End of the World, is the chaotic feminist comedy we didn’t know we needed.

While living with her parents during the pandemic lockdown and simultaneously going through the most intense heartbreak of her life, Tatienne received a “check in text” from every man she’d ever slept with. She vividly remembers these thirsty messages, thinking “these dudes are horny for the end of the world!”

Watching herself (and everyone else in the world) spiraling out and coupling up, Tatienne had a moment of clarity. Through Ebeth, Horny’s startlingly unselfaware anti-heroine, Tatienne uses her skill with language to ask the audience: What would you focus on when the end is nigh—boys?

Musa Gurnis, a feminist theater scholar and the director of Horny for the End of the World says: “Tatienne is a glitterbomb satirist and a joy to watch! Her high-energy performance roasts our delulu heroine and her male-centric outlook, while still taking Ebeth seriously as a person capable of growth and worthy of love.”

Horny for the End of The World plays throughout August at TheSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall. Produced by the Private Theatre under the artistic direction of John Gould Rubin (former co-artistic director of LAByrinth, with Phillip Seymour Hoffman). John Gould Rubin on Horny: “Tatienne’s a deeply gifted artist. She’s created a piece that simultaneously confronts the audience and puts them at ease; while recounting her character’s story she endows us with empathy, so through her we see ourselves.”

Tickets available here.

Praise and Audience reactions for Tatienne Hendricks-Tellefsen:

“I love the way Tatienne performs that number. She uses the song as a Knife against Bertram. It’s great.” – Josh Feye, Dionysian Dream

“The show that keeps selling out.” – Brooklyn Center for Theatre Research

“Hilarious and heartbreaking. Horny 4 has a world and a character so recognizable, you’ll worry it could be about you.” – Claire McClain (audience member)

Biography

Tatienne Hendricks-Tellefsen is a classically trained actor and writer, born and raised in New York City. She studied Shakespeare at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London and is an Alumni of Atlantic Acting School in Chelsea NYC.

Tatienne wrote, produced and starred in her comedic web series, Adult, which was an official selection at Lower East Side Film Festival, won two audience awards at IndieWorks and also earned her an invitation to participate in the Tribeca Film Festival’s N.O.W. Creators Market. Her acting has been featured at film festivals all over the United States and the prestigious San Sebastian Film Festival in Spain. Recent acting credits include: David Chase’s THE MANY SAINTS OF NEWARK, Kevin Vu’s PERFECT AS CATS, the western feature ALL MEN ARE WICKED, Alex Aguirre’s M3LTD0WN at the Brick Theater; Shakespeare’s ALLS WELL THAT ENDS WELL, Daria Kolomiec’s DIARY OF WAR at Bedlam’s West End Theatre, and Dan Purcell’s OBSERVER AT REST.

Listing Information

Title: Horny for the End of the World

Venue: TheSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall

Ed Fringe link: https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/horny-for-the-end-of-the-world

Fringe Venue Number: 53

Dates: Aug 1 – 22 (Not 10, not 17)

Press from: AUG 2

Time: (August 1-16) 23:15 (August 18-22) 23:30

Duration: 40 mins Entry: £12 / concessions £10 Age: 16+

#EdFringe News – Sean Alexander – The Confusionist Returns by Popular Demand with 1 Moment In Time @EdFringe @theSpaceUK @S_AlexanderMagi #WhatsOnEdinburgh

Sean Alexander

1 Moment in Time

Returning to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025, Sean Alexander brings back his spellbinding show, “1 Moment in Time,” refined and more powerful than ever. Following a critically acclaimed debut last year, this mesmerising storytelling magic show has garnered multiple rave reviews, described as “mind-boggling,” “jaw-dropping,” and “truly miraculous.” Now, with fresh elements and deeper emotional resonance, Sean Alexander invites audiences once again to explore the defining moments that shape our lives.

From historic milestones like the invention of the lightbulb to deeply personal experiences, “1 Moment in Time” interweaves masterful storytelling with astonishing illusions to create an unforgettable experience. With audience participation at its heart, the show challenges us to reflect on our own pivotal moments and the ripple effects they create. As one man searches for his defining moment, audiences will be drawn into an intimate and thought-provoking journey of time, memory, and destiny.

1 Moment in Time blends emotionally-driven storytelling with mind-blowing magic, described by audiences as “thought-provoking”, “inspiring”, and “utterly unforgettable”. It explores the moments that define us, challenge us, and change the course of our lives; all through the lens of illusion and theatre.

Sean Alexander’s 28-year career includes two Royal performances, an acclaimed 24-hour online celebrity charity show, and a show-stopping reveal of the ICC T20 World Cup trophy to UAE Royalty and cricket legends in 2024. With performances on some of the most prestigious stages, including the London Palladium, and recognition from the likes of America’s Got Talent and Britain’s Got Talent, Sean has cemented his reputation as one of the most innovative magicians today. Lauded as “on a par with David Blaine” (City Times Dubai), his work with celebrities such as Amanda Holden, Jamie Redknapp, and Romesh Ranganathan showcases his unmatched skill and creativity.

Critics last year described it as:

“One of the standout performances at the Fringe… especially for kids, as it offers an inspiring message: no matter what happens, never give up because miracles do happen.” North West End

TV personality Alistair McGowan came to see the show and said he was “knocked out” by it.

Following its debut last year, “1 Moment in Time” is now embarking on an India tour after successful performances in both Dubai and Mumbai, as well as a UK national tour. This international success further cements Sean Alexander’s reputation as a world-class performer, captivating audiences across the globe with his unique blend of magic and storytelling.

For an unforgettable evening of mind-bending magic and profound storytelling, don’t miss “1 Moment in Time” at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2025.

“Spellbinding – Mind-boggling – Truly Miraculous” – British Theatre Guide
“Jaw-dropping – One of the standout performances of the fringe” – North West End
“Excellent Show – Impeccable – Pure delight and Amazement” – Fringe Review

Venue: theSpace @ Surgeon’s Hall
Dates: 1-23 August 2025
Time: 15:55
Ticket prices: £14.50 / Concessions £13
Fringe box office: 0131 226 0000 / www.edfringe.com

CATCH MY SHOW AT THE EDINBURGH FRINGE THIS AUGUST!

Sean Alexander – The Confusionist
Award Winning Illusionist & Member of The Magic Circle

Website: seanalexandermagic.com

Kudos:

“One of the best magic acts we’ve seen” Piers Morgan

“I love your message, I love your purpose, it’s beautiful” Julianne Hough

“How on earth?” Amanda Holden

“That was crazy, incredible” Cher Lloyd

“On a par with the best that David Blaine could offer” City Times-Dubai

#Review By Lou of Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry @PenguinRandom #GreatBigBeautifulLife

Great Big Beautiful Life
By Emily Henry

Review by Louise Cannon

There are times when life can be absolutely big and beautiful and there are big characters stories to uncover in this delightful book, which is the latest by Emily Henry.

Blurb

When Margaret Ives, the famously reclusive heiress, invites eternal optimist Alice Scott to the balmy Little Crescent Island, Alice knows this is it: her big break. And even more rare: a chance to impress her family with a Serious Publication.

The catch? Pulitzer-prize winning human thundercloud, Hayden Anderson, is sure of the same thing.

The proposal? A one-month trial period to unearth the truth behind one of the most scandalous families of the 20th Century, after which she’ll choose who’ll tell her story.

The problem? Margaret is only giving each of them tantalising pieces. Pieces they can’t put together because of an ironclad NDA and an inconvenient yearning pulsing between them every time they’re in the same room.

And it’s becoming abundantly clear that their story – just like the tale Margaret’s spinning – could be a mystery, tragedy, or love ballad … depending on who’s telling it.

Review

Margaret Ives has had quite the life, so it may seem. Much has been lived in the spotlight, now, journalist, Alice Scott wants to write a biography documenting her life. It just might be the piece of work her parents are proud of or at least see that her choice of career is a serious one and she can do the serious side of it. It isn’t going to be easy because of NDAs and there’s competition in Hayden Anderson to contend with as well. Margaret Ives gives both, rather juicy information. What is being spun out is rather intriguing and keeps you hooked into Margaret’s story.

Amongst the investigative journalism, there is romance in the air, but Alice and Hayden, it seems, aren’t always sure how to be around each other. He is tantalisingly curious about her. Masterfully, the tension between both Alice and Hayden is palpable.

There’s lots for readers to discover and lots that the characters have to discover throughout this engaging book.

Great Big Beautiful Life, with its intrigue that draws you in, the humour that makes you smile and laugh, the romance and characters with big lives to lead, could well be Emily Henry’s best book to date!

#Review By Lou of That Time Everything Was On Fire by Kerry Downes #KerryDownes @HQstories #summer #debutauthor

Everything Was On Fire
By Kerry Downes

Review by Louise Cannon

Looking for a debut novel this summer to read? Everything On Fire provides well-written characters in their thirties trying to navigate this next stage of life and friendships. Discover the blurb and my full review below.

Blurb

Sam and Daisy have been best friends since university. Back then Daisy was a wild, Fleetwood Mac-obsessed girl descended from the Yorkshire Moors, while Sam’s youth was misspent traipsing around Liverpool on shopping trips and nights out.

But as they lean against each other on a wooden bench in the tired garden of their beloved local pub, gazing out at Sam’s wedding, they have no idea that their paths are about to truly diverge for the first time.

As Sam’s desire to become a mother consumes her, and Daisy’s inability to resist temptation haunts her, these best of friends will lose sight of themselves – and each other. With each misstep and unintentional betrayal the gulf widens. But can they build a bridge, or will they let it burn?

Review

Everything Was On Fire is a bit of a slow-burn to begin with, but stick with it. It then hooks you in good and proper and a plot that just gets better and better the deeper you dive into the characters lives.

Sam and Daisy were best friends. Daisy was obsessed with Fleetwood-Mac and the book has some music vibes, which goes well with the story and summer.

Lives don’t always have the youthful carefree summer feel. Friendships change and so does the way they connect and relate to each other as they age. Sam and Daisy lose sight of themselves as desires consume them and those once strong bridges that created a pathway to each other, weaken. There are also other challenges that life has presented, such as needing to go through rounds of IVF to try to conceive.

It’s a book that nonetheless carries summer vibes within it and the relationships become absorbing to read about. There’s warmth and wit as well as big challenges in life to face.

That Time Everything Was On Fire is a good, solid debut and I look forward to seeing more from its author, Kerry Downes.

#Review by Lou of Happy Is The One by Katie Allen #MeetRobin @KTAllenWriting @OrendaBooks #HalleysComet #HappyIsTheOne

Happy Is The One
By Katie Allen

Review by Louise Cannon

Happy is the One is great for those who enjoy reading Rachel Joyce’s books. I also thought her debut, Everything Happens For A Reason to be a great read. Both are excellent for book clubs and for reading outwith them too. Today I am on the blog tour with a review. See below for more details about this book and my opinions on it as well as a bit about the author.

Blurb

hat if halfway through your life was just the beginning?

Robin Edmund Blake is halfway through his life.

Born in 1986, when Halley’s Comet crossed the sky, he is destined to go out with it, when it returns in 2061. Until that day, he can’t die. He has proof.

With his future mapped out in minute detail, a lucrative but increasingly dull job in the City of London, and Gemma to share his life with, Robin has a plan to be remembered forever.

But when Robin’s sick father has one accident too many, the plan starts to unravel. Robin must return home to the tiny seaside town of Eastgate, learn to care for the man who never really cared for him, and face the childhood ghosts he fled decades ago.

Desperate to get his life back on schedule, he connects with fellow outsider Astrid. Brutally direct, sharp-witted and a professor at a nearby university, she’s unlike anyone he’s ever met. But Astrid is hiding something and someone from Robin.

And he’s hiding even more from her…

For fans of Hazel Prior, Rachel Joyce and Jonas Jonasson

Review

Katie Allen poses a question that I am sure I am not the only other person who has thought of: What would you do if you knew the exact moment you were going to die and how would you then proceed to live your life? Deep and thought provoking for readers to ponder and for her main characters to navigate.

Robin whole-heartedly believes he knows when he’s going to die. It’s all linked to a theory he’s been told since he was a child to do with Halley’s Comet and that he won’t die until it orbits earth again. He’s now 37.

The book explores humanity and emotions of grief. Robin lost his mother when he was young and as if that isn’t enough to contend with, his father is also very unwell. . It also explores the impact on this very well and believably through Robin then wanting to design and plan the perfect life to the point of obsession. You can totally empathise with him as he’s far from being present and enjoying things, he’s always working on steps ahead. You can really see why he’s focusing on certain things and doing more existing than truly living life as it’s a lot to deal with.

There is a corner that gets turned when the more relaxed Astrid appears on the scene. This doesn’t come without its challenges as there are revelations that appear.

Danny also comes to the scene and he has dreams to live out and this captures Robin into living life. The pair are like chalk and cheese and yet they work together, especially where Robin is concerned in showing a more present life rather than always looking towards the future and worrying about what may or may not occur.

Happy Is The One is ultimately a heart-warming story that will get you pondering what direction to lead your own life in, will it be always looking ahead, but forgetting about the present, or will it be more enjoying the moment whilst it lasts?

I highly recommend Happy is the One as one not to miss. It just might feed something you didn’t know you needed into your life in a positive way.

About the Author

Katie Allen was a journalist and columnist at Guardian and Observer, starting her career as a Reuters correspondent in Berlin and London. Her warmly funny, immensely moving literary debut novel, Everything Happens for a Reason, was based on her own devastating experience of stillbirth and was a number-one digital bestseller, with wide critical acclaim. Katie grew up in Warwickshire and now lives in South London with her family.