What makes the perfect summer read? Jenny Kane knows the formula, in the enchantingly wonderful A Cornish Escape.
The plot:
Abi’s life is turned upside down when she is widowed before her thirtieth birthday. Determined to find something positive in the upheaval, Abi decides to make a fresh start somewhere new. With fond childhood memories of holidays in a Cornish cottage, could Cornwall be the place to start over?
With all her belongings in the boot of her car but no real plan, a chance meeting in a village pub brings new friends Beth and Max into her life. Max soon helps Abi track down the house of her dreams, but things aren’t as simple as Abi hoped.
I can’t get enough of Kane’s writing style
I adored this author’s previous book, Another Cup of Coffee (my review here), so when I saw this, I was allllll over it. I read it within a few days of getting it, and it was definitely the best decision. It’s a good one whether you’re stuck inside on a rainy day, or out in the sun and imagining (like me!), you’re in Cornwall.
Kane definitely has a trick which is seldom seen with getting you attached to characters. She builds people up, carrying their individual characteristics and creates multiple, flowing stories which connect together. I loved the way they intertwine and seeing them progress. There was one character who was intentionally horrid, and I was so invested in the characters I was tutting and getting angry, but on the other hand, there’s a surprise character who I loved– big yes to Stan!
I often caught myself smiling for pages on end and found it nearly impossible to put down. It’s a genuine treat to read, with a dual narrative (easy to follow) and not too short chapters to allow you to get into the story, but not too long so it breaks the flow.
It had the right amount of romance, to perfect scenery, and exciting plot which just makes A Cornish Escape an all-round lovely read.
It’s got an original concept and is all about finding yourself with a gorgeous backdrop – I often want to escape and move to France/ New York, so it was nice to see someone else do this (albeit fictional, but Abi feels real!), and her journey towards becoming happier.
I genuinely sit on the edge of my seat waiting for the next book by this author – I can’t get enough of Kane’s writing style and heart-warming stories which keep you engaged throughout.
There is another book A Cornish Wedding [external website], which is out in July and I’m counting down the days – it follows on from A Cornish Escape, so my wish of having more from these characters has come true!
A Cornish Escape, Jenny Kane, RRP £9.99 (paperback); Book Depository
Pages: 277
Publisher: Headline/ Accent Press
Genre: Fiction/ Contemporary
