Rachel Brimble's Blog

November 29, 2025

How to Write a Scene That Hooks Readers By The Writer Printable Co.


As you probably know by now, I have a Etsy shop selling printable workbooks, guides and templates to help aspiring writers get writing and following their dreams. I'll be posting post here every now and then giving new writers hints and tips... Enjoy!

When you’re juggling work, family, and the secret dream of writing a novel, it can feel overwhelming to make every scene shine. But a strong scene isn’t about perfection — it’s about connection. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the simple elements that will help you write scenes that instantly hook readers… even if you’re writing in 10-minute pockets of time.

1. Start with a Clear Purpose

Every scene should answer one question: What changes because this scene exists?
Readers feel hooked when they sense momentum. A purposeless scene feels like a pause; a purposeful scene feels like a pull forward.

Ask yourself:

What new problem appears?

What decision is forced?

What tension increases?

2. Drop Readers Into the Action

Rather than easing slowly into your scene, begin close to the point of conflict, curiosity, or emotional tension.

Examples:

A heated conversation already in progress

A character discovering something unexpected

A moment where stakes shift

Starting too early loses the reader. Starting late hooks them instantly.

3. Build Tension With Specific Details

The right detail anchors a reader inside the moment — but make sure the detail matters.

Try adding details that reveal:

Emotional undercurrents

Character goals or fears

A ticking clock

A sign that something is about to go wrong

4. End With an Open Loop

Great scenes don’t close doors — they open them.

Good scene endings include:

A question raised

A new obstacle

A discovery

A reversal

An unanswered emotion

These leave readers thinking: I need to know what happens next.

5. Keep It Tight

When writing in short bursts (school run, lunch break, late evening), concise writing is your best friend. Focus on the bones of the scene first — emotion, action, stakes — and refine later.

Want More Support?

If you’d love help crafting stronger scenes, check out my PlotYour Novel in Just 2 Weeks workbook, a beginner-friendly guide that helps you shape your novel with confidence.

LINK: https://thewriterprintableco.etsy.com/listing/4360927382

Happy Writing!

Rachel x

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Published on November 29, 2025 05:53

November 23, 2025

Are you ready to get serious about writing your novel in 2026?

 ** ANNOUCEMENT **

Lovely writers... I have reopened my 1-1 Critique Service for a limited time!!

If you’ve been dreaming of writing a novel but feel like you’re stuck OR circling the same opening chapter again and again—you are not alone. For so many aspiring writers balancing work, kids, caring responsibilities, writing time can feel impossibly scarce.

But here’s the truth is:

You don’t need more hours. You need clarity, direction, and confidence in the pages you do write.

That’s why I’m opening my 1-1 critique services for a limited time—from now until 31st December only—so you can step into 2026 with polished pages, real momentum, and a writing plan that feels achievable, exciting, and completely doable.

Whether you’re at the fragile “Is this even good?” beginning stage or you’re finally ready to submit to agents in the new year, I’m here to support you every step of the way.

So... what do I have on offer? 3 options that I hope at least one will be just what you need right now!

You can book:

1. First Page Critique

In this laser-focused edit, I’ll help you strengthen your hook, sharpen your prose, and ensure your opening lands with clarity and confidence. You’ll walk away knowing exactly how to elevate the most important page of your book.

2. First Chapter Critique

Ideal for writers who want deeper insight into pacing, voice, character, and story setup.
This option gives you a thorough developmental critique of your entire opening chapter, plus clear, encouraging next steps to help you continue writing with purpose.

3. Agent Submission Package (First Three Chapters + Synopsis)

This is your “I’m ready to make this dream real” package.
I’ll review your first three chapters and synopsis, offering guidance on:

story setup

character arcs

clarity and stakes

submission readiness

how to strengthen your pitch

If you’re planning to query agents in early 2026, this is the perfect time to polish your opening pages and step confidently into the new year!

If you want to step into the new year with polished pages, renewed confidence, and a clear plan for finishing—or submitting—your novel, my critique services are here to help.

Bookings are open until 31st December.

After that, the door closes so I can focus on supporting the writers already enrolled and preparing exciting new tools for the year ahead.

Ready to book your critique?

Head over to my Etsy shop, The Writer Printable Co for all the details, fees etc - as soon as I receive your payment confirmation, feel free to email me your pages. It's as simple as that! Here's the link:

https://thewriterprintableco.etsy.com

Let’s make 2026 the year your writing truly takes off.
I can’t wait to read your words!

Questions? Feel free email at rachelbrimble@gmail.com

Love,

Rachel x

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Published on November 23, 2025 10:00

November 21, 2025

BOOK REVIEW: Dublin Rogue by Stephanie Harte (blog tour)

 


REVIEW
Over and over again, Stephanie Harte's books have caught my eye, but I still didn't get around to reading one until now. And I'm so glad I did!
I am an avid crime reader with a good gangland book thrown in for good measure and Dublin Rogue, the first book in a brand new series, did not disappoint. We are immediately thrown into the action and quickly introduced to the turf war being fought over by the O'Connor and Riley gangs. The tension soon heats up, but as the fight tactics turn personal so does the danger and violence.
Brilliantly written and skilfully building into the next book, I loved this opening instalment and will definitely continue reading, especially now my favourite character, Josie, is coming to the fore. A must read for fans of Martina Cole!

ABRAND NEW gripping gangland read, perfect for fans of Mobland and PeakyBlinders, from the bestselling author of Double Trouble. Meet theO'Connors...  🍀🩸

London, 1975.

Dublin-born Sean O’Connor rules the streets of Kilburnwith his charm and his fist. But the locals don’t take kindly to an Irishmanmuscling in on their patch—and they’re out for blood.

As a turf war heats up, Sean digs in deeper, determined toprotect his empire and his family. But every move he makes pulls him furtherfrom the life he promised his wife, Josie, and their young daughter, Orla.

Josie just wants out—a quiet life far from the violenceand vendettas. But with Sean risking it all, escape might no longer be anoption.

The streets are closing in. Loyalties will be tested. Andnot everyone will make it out alive.

This Dublin rogue might have built an empire, but he's gota war to fight.

Don't miss the start of a gripping new gangland seriesthat will keep you on the edge of your seat! 🩸😮

Purchase Link - https://mybook.to/DublinRogue

Author Bio –


Stephanie Harte was born and raised inNorth West London. After leaving school, she trained in Hairdressing andBeautyTherapy at London College of Fashion. Stephanie taught beauty workshopsat a specialist residential clinic for children with severe eating disordersfor ten years. She also previously worked as a Pharmaceutical Buyer for the NHSbefore her career path led her to an international medical export company.While taking a break to raise her two children, Stephanie began writing as ahobby. She signed a contract in March 2019 with Head of Zeus. Stephanie hassince written seven crime novels and has just signed a new four-book deal withBoldwood Books.

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: @stephanieharteauthor

Twitter: @StephanieHarte3

Instagram: @stephanieharteauthor

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/StephanieHarteNews

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Published on November 21, 2025 01:52

November 7, 2025

Friday Chat & Drinks With... L B Griffin


 


Welcome back to Friday Chat & Drinks!
This month I have been chatting with the quite lovely LB Griffin and it is so nice to host her on my blog as we haven't seen one another in person for far too long - hope you have a cup or glass of your favourite drink... let's get started!

R: Let me start by asking what genre you typically read and why?

 

LB: To say I have a particular genre I typically read would be a little bit misleading as I love to read absolutely everything. If I were be tied to a stake and tickled with feathers – I would answer – thrillers – I suppose I love them more. I love a book with plenty of plot twists and being kept hanging – and all that tension, and wondering, and thinking, and trying to work it out. In fact, I guess I like to try and beat the author at their own game – and resolve it before the end – with a YES I had it nailed right from the first page….

 

R: Can you share a favourite childhood memory with my readers?

 

LB: I was brought up on a council estate – the junior school was literally across the road from me and the prefab we lived in had been built on some parts of a grand estate called Carrswood, in Bath. It was considered a rough area to live. There were a few tough people about – but I think no-one knows what goes on behind closed doors – rich or poor.

 

Anyway, at the end of the lane where I lived, were huge black wrought iron gates – the lady of the manor would be chauffer driven past our prefab (us being the last in the lane) and I would stand outside our tiny home and do a courtesy – because my mother thought she was like royalty. Seriously. Can you believe it? But I digress. Behind those wrought iron gates were woods – Carrswood – if anyone has a mind to check it out - the Bath to Bristol train line slips neatly under there through a tunnel.

 

Those woods became my playground where dens were built – dreams were dreamt, streams were dipped into and lazing on banks staring at the sky at clouds pretending I could float around on them, they were my special memories. We were wild. Out all day. My mother never having a clue where we were or what we were doing. Or in fact ever bothering to ask. It felt safe. Harmless. A world away from today.

 

Though there were those dangerous, silly, stupid things we would do as well. My friends and I would slide right through the gates and climb down banks right down to the train-line. Dangerous, right. Yes, we used to be so crazy young – five maybe, not realising the enormity of it - putting pennies on the line so the train would run right over it and squish them to a larger size and flatten the head of the monarch. I would be furious these days if I saw anyone near a train line. Anyway, we survived.


R: Wow!! You can't imagine it these days, can you? But I was left to run wild in much the same way from around five years old, lol! It's a different world indeed today...

 

Do you have any shameless addictions? 

 

LB: I confess I used to like shoes – the more sparkly the better. The higher the heel the better. Nowadays I have to go for boring – sensible shoes because my feet just don’t like what I’ve put them through in the past. I always wish shoe designers would take into account that while we get older it doesn’t mean we get more boring.


 

R: What do you consider the biggest challenge of writing a new book?


LB: For me its time. I am not a career author, so I don’t put myself into a 9 – 5 kind of routine. But I do have this guilt trip every time I stick my head into the laptop with a new idea.

I don’t have time.

Okay, so I’m retired. I’ve been on holiday with my laptop and sun shining and water to begging to be swam in – while I could hide away from everyone, I have life outside of writing, and I have people I love to see. Time is the biggest threat – and it’s running out.

 

Writing a set amount of words in a day doesn’t reach my vocabulary. If I write 100 or a 1000 I still would like to write more – but as you know now – time is an issue.

 

R: What are your thoughts on writing series?


LB: I can see the importance of writing a book series – especially once you have determined how the end will come and how many books you might write to achieve that. Ellie Griffiths is a perfect example of wonderful series – I’m hooked – and I’ve actually got my husband hooked on them. For me I have the series to follow on from Secrets, Shame and Shoebox – The Twenty-One-Year Contract left the door wide open to write more – I have the stories plotted in my head – so the sweet and short answer is – I am writing – just give me more time…

 

Thanks so much for allowing me to be on your blog, Rachel. I so love your books – they are timeless – a perfect read for any day. Thank you to all those readers who take the time to buy, read and review – you have no idea how much I appreciate it. 

Love Lynn


Ah, thank you so much for those kinds words about my books, Lynn! That's so nice of you :)


For visitors who want to know more about Lynn's work, here is the blurb & link to her novel, Secrets, Shame and Shoebox...




BLURB:


When Harriet Laws loses her grandmother and her job, her happy life in London seems over. Alone, grief-stricken and penniless, she thinks wildly of ending it all. Fate steps in as Tom Fletcher saves her, gives her hope, and guides her to new employment. He takes her to dinner, and she finds him attractive. He's older, but she doesn't mind. Does he? Tom, a quiet, hardworking man, is unsure of Harriet's feelings, but he's also very busy building his business interests. So it's no wonder a suave, sophisticated fellow walks off with Harriet right under Tom's nose. What follows, no one could have predicted, as Harriet not only loses contact with all her friends but must again fight for her very life...will she ever see Tom again?


BUY: https://geni.us/so3WBS



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Published on November 07, 2025 05:00

October 20, 2025

New Historical Fiction Trilogy Coming Soon!

 


I’m so excited to finally share that my latest historical fiction trilogy is now available to preorder — releasing 16th December!

Originally published as the Carson Street trilogy under the titles of A Widow's Vow, Trouble for the Leading Lady and A Very Modern Marriage - the books have been tweaked and are (I think!) better than before. If you missed them the first time around, now is the time to read them...

Step into Bath, 1851, where three women — Louisa, Nancy, and Octavia — forge an unlikely sisterhood in a world that has little mercy for women on their own.

When Louisa inherits a house, the three come together and turn it into a discreet brothel for upper-class gentlemen — a bold choice that changes their lives forever. Amidst scandal, heartbreak, and danger, they find what they never expected: friendship, freedom, and even love.

Full of drama, intrigue, and romance, this is a story of survival, strength, and sisterhood in Victorian England.

👉 Preorder now and be among the first to meet Louisa, Nancy, and Octavia this December.

Book 1 - The Widow's Vow - https://geni.us/iQkr4

Book 2 - The Foundling's Fortune - https://geni.us/CU04vP

Book 3 - The Wife's Reputation - https://geni.us/5IpKjA

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Published on October 20, 2025 11:00

October 3, 2025

Friday Chat & Drinks With... May Ellis


Happy Friday, lovely Readers!
Welcome to another monthly guest slot where on the first Friday of every month I interview a guest author - however, this month is a little different in that the lovely May Ellis has chosen instead to tell us a little about a book she has written that is hugely personal to her.
I am so happy to have you here, May and very much looking forward to finding out more about your novel Lily's Choice - over to you!


Thankyou, Rachel for inviting me to be the guest on your blog. I’d like to telleveryone about my novel Lily’s Choice, published under my pen name MayEllis by Boldwood Books.

 

Thisbook is very close to my heart – more so than anything else I’ve ever written –because it is based on real events in my family. I’m the only one left to tellthis story and to honour them. I actually appear as a character in Lily’sChoice. I am Caroline, Lily’s youngest daughter. That’s not our real names,by the way

 

Myparents were from the East End. They married in 1949 when they were nineteenand twenty-one. Here’s their wedding picture:



Theywere married for nearly twenty years before cracks began to appear. Mysixteen-year-old sister had an illegitimate child and refused to name thefather. Single mothers and their children were shunned and scorned in the 1960s.Lily felt my sister would be better off having the child adopted. Her husband Jackhowever, decided that no one was giving his grandchild away. The couple grewapart. Lily saw all her dreams for her family going up in smoke. Jack tried hisbest, but nothing would console her. She turned to her married boss forcomfort, a choice that would lead to a tragedy.

 

As achild, I had no idea about the conflict going on around me. That’s why this isa novel. Scenes in which I appear are faithful to my memory. I relied on researchand what I knew of the people and society in the 1960s to help me join togetherthe other pieces of the puzzle.

 

It’sbeen called ‘A heartbreaking tale of love and loss.’  It was hard to write, but I’m glad I did it. Ihope you enjoy reading it.

 

Buylink: https://mybook.to/lilyschoicesocial

 

 

 

Blurb: Living in South London, Lily has always longed for a better life for herfamily. And when she secures a job at a City law firm, her dreams look likethey may finally come true.

But Lily’s hopes are shattered when her teenagedaughter Beverley falls pregnant, with the father nowhere to be seen. Lilyloves the child, but worries about Beverley and her illegitimate baby's future.The additional responsibilities of another mouth to feed begin to take theirtoll, and worst of all is the rift growing between Lily and her husband Jack who,despite his devotion to his family, doesn’t seem to understand Lily's feelingsor everything she's been working for.

Then the opportunity for change comes in anunexpected form, and Lily must choose whether to grasp her chance of happinesswith both hands, even if it could cost her dearly.

Should she risk everything for the chance at abetter life?

A gripping and moving new historical novel fromthe author of the bestselling Clarks Factory Girls series. Perfect for fans ofKitty Neale and Rosie Clarke.

Previously published as Mine.

 

 

The real Lily and Caroline, 1969.


(Note that Lily on the book cover has a blue headband likeCaroline’s)

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Published on October 03, 2025 09:00

October 1, 2025

Calling All New & Aspiring Writers!!

 

If you’ve been following me for a while, you probably understand by now that part of career is dedicated to helping new and aspiring writers on their journey to success!

Have you always dreamed of writing a novel? Or maybe dabbled with opening lines, scribbled in notebooks or saved have half-finished Word documents on your computer?

I see you. Because I was you.

When I first started writing, I had the passion — but I didn’t have the guidance, the tools or the confidence. I spent years fumbling my way forward, wishing I had something to keep me organised, motivated, and on track. Honestly? It took me a lot longer than it should have to finally find my stride as a writer.

Fast forward almost 20 years, 30 + books later and helping many writers through my previous critique services, in January of this year I created The Writer Printable Co.

I wanted to build  one-stop shop providing the resources I wish I’d had when I started — beautiful, practical 'how to' printables designed to help you stop second-guessing yourself and start writing with clarity and confidence.

At The Writer Printable Co, you’ll find tools to help you:

✨ Plan your novel, step by step without the overwhelm
✨ Track your progress so you can actually see how far you’ve come
✨ Spark fresh ideas when you feel stuck
✨ Stay motivated on the days when doubt creeps in

Writing doesn’t have to feel like wandering in the dark. With the right support, you can move from “I wish I could” to “I did it!” so much faster than me.

So if you’re an aspiring writer who’s ready to make some serious, intentional steps towards publication — even if you only have 15 minutes a day to write — come and explore what I’ve made for you!

LINK: https://thewriterprintableco.etsy.com

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Published on October 01, 2025 11:00

September 15, 2025

Courage, Friendship and Hope on the WWII Home Front



Three nurses. Three friends. One war that will test them all.

The Home Front Nurses series is set in the heart of Bath during the Second World War. At its centre are three women who could not be more different, yet whose lives become bound together in friendship, courage, and hope.

Sylvia – fiery, feisty, and never afraid to speak her mind.

Freda – ambitious, independent, and determined to carve her own future.

Veronica – strong, steady, and quietly resilient, with a heart that holds them all together.

As bombs fall, families are separated, and the pressures of wartime mount, these three women discover that friendship can be the lifeline that helps them survive the darkest days.

A Story of Ordinary Women in Extraordinary Times

The series isn’t just about war; it’s about living through it. About the stolen moments of joy, the laughter that bubbles up even when times are hard, and the hope that refuses to be extinguished. It’s about love found when least expected, dreams fought for against the odds, and the strength that women carry within them.

Three Books So Far… and More to Come

The journey of Sylvia, Freda, and Veronica has so far spanned three novels, each one exploring a new season in their lives:

The Home Front Nurses – where it all begins. As war breaks out, the three women find their lives and hearts changed forever.

Dangerous Days for the Home Front Nurses – the danger intensifies, testing their friendships and their futures as never before.

Winter Wishes for the Home Front Nurses – a Christmas of heartbreak, resilience, and the promise of new beginnings.

And their story is far from over…

Why Readers Love This Series

If you enjoy novels filled with strong heroines, friendship, heartache, and the triumph of hope over despair, then the Home Front Nurses series will transport you straight to the cobbled streets of wartime Bath. These women aren’t just characters on the page — they’re companions you’ll want to cheer for, cry with, and keep close long after you finish reading.

Ready to read the Home Home Front Nurses?? Here's the Amazon links:

The Home Front Nurses: https://geni.us/Zf9o

Dangerous Days for the Home Front Nurses: https://geni.us/pjB716X

Winter Wishes for the Home Front Nurses: https://geni.us/L8rPZL

Happy Reading!

Rachel x

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Published on September 15, 2025 11:00

September 5, 2025

Friday Chat & Drinks With... Valerie Keogh

 


Welcome back to Friday Chat & Drinks!
This month I am literally thrilled to welcome thriller writer, Val Keogh.
When I decided to start interviewing fellow authors on my blog once a month, I wanted my guests to be as varied as my reading. So I hope, lovely readers, you will enjoy hearing from authors of all different genres and maybe you'll pick up a book you wouldn't normally try. After all, isn't that how most of us find new to us authors who become one of our favourties?
Let's get things started - drinks at the ready, let's do this!
Me: Hi Valerie,
Let me ask you this, what do you wish you’d known before you startedwriting?

Valerie: That it’s a marathon and not a sprint. Only a fewwriters strike it lucky with their first book. Most need to write severalbefore they make a living. I wish someone had told me – so I tell everyone – it’spersistence, and the ability to keep getting up when you’re knocked down thatbrings success. On the plus side, what an absolutely amazing community it is –how writers help and support one another, and the amazing friends I’ve made.

Me: I couldn't agree and the friendships made (including ours!) have become some of the best and closest friends I've ever had.

Is there any subject you’d never write about asan author?

Valerie: Child abuse. And Erotica. I also don’t writegraphically violent or graphically sexual scenes. Since I write psychologicalthrillers, there will always be a certain amount of violence but I don’t thinkit’s ever gratuitous.

Me: I agree, child abuse will never happen in my books - I've written a certain amount of neglect and hardship but nothing any darker. I have your book, The Wives, on my kindle waiting for me and I can't wait to get started.

Are you a plotter or a pantser?

Valerie: An absolute pantser. I sometimes start writing withonly a wisp of an idea in the hopes that it’ll turn into a story. I triedplanning – got as far as writing Chapter One, then couldn’t go any further. My brain simply refuses to work like that.

Me: We are the complete opposite! I am a full on plotter who needs every chapter summarised before I begin to write. That's why I love writing, there is no right or wrong way.

If you could be the original author for anybook, which book would it be and why?

Valerie: JK Rowling’s Harry Potter series – (not just for the money!)but because I loved that adults and children could read and enjoy them equally.I read them the same time as my 11-year-old nephew. As for my favourite – I wouldlove to be able to write as beautifully and as well as EF Benson – his Mapp andLucia series is simply perfect.

Me: What an imagination JK Rowling had with the Harry Potter series... mindboggling. 

So, what are you working on at the moment?

 Valerie: I have just this afternoon finished my 31st,yet unnamed book, and I’ve sent it off to my lovely editor, Emily – only oneday late which is good for me!

 Me: Yay, congrats! Such a fabulous feeling - I look forward to hearing more about it the next time you visit. I hope it flies!

Do you work on one book at a time?

 Valerie: It’s more a constant cycle – so I’m either writing,waiting for edits to come in, and while I’m waiting I’m thinking of my next,hoping some idea will pop into my head. Sometimes, I’ll start writing my nextwhile waiting for edits to come.

 Me: Same here - I think this is what aspiring writers don't realise. It's amazing to be published, but then the fun and games of juggling writing projects begins!

Let's talk about your latest release - do you have a favouritecharacter?

Valerie: My latest release, out July 15th, is one ofmy favourite books. I really had fun writing it – it is my 30thnovel, so I decided to write about a writer who was struggling to come up withan idea for a story. I had fun writing Cara, the writer, but all of mycharacters tend to be more unlikeable than likeable. 

Me: This sounds great... especially for us writers! I will be heading off to Amazon as soon we're done here. Why don't we finish off by you sharing the blurb and buy link for The Writer?

It was great having you here this evening, Valerie!

Blurb:

Cara Jenkins is a successful author about to embark on herthirtieth novel. But as she sits at her desk to write, she realizes that shehas no ideas left. And as the pressure mounts for her to deliver, she begins tofear that her career is over.

Then the letters start.

At first, they seem harmless. But as the messages growdarker, Cara becomes convinced that someone is watching her, waiting for theirmoment to strike.

Her husband, Artie, dismisses the notes as stupid pranks,but Cara feels them pulling her back to a past she can't escape. With no easyanswers, Cara does what she does best and begins to write. But the more wordsthat come, the more fantasy and reality begin to blur and soon her imagination,and her accusations, begin to run wild.

With reality blurring into fiction, Cara struggles to seethe truth. Is someone really watching her, or is her unravelling mind feedingher paranoia? And how will this story - her story – end?

This time her deadline has never felt more deadly….

BUY:  https://mybook.to/TheWriterSocial

 

BIO: 

Valerie Keogh is the best-selling author of The Nurse. She lives in Wiltshire with her husband and a huge black cat, Fatty Arbuckle. She grew up reading Agatha Christie and initially wrote crime novels - she now writes psychological thrillers.

The Little Lies was shortlisted for the Crime Fiction Lovers Award 2021

Valerie has a BA in English and an MA in American Literature.

She is currently published with Boldwood Books.

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/valeriekeoghnovels

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valeriekeogh2/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ValerieKeogh1

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Published on September 05, 2025 11:00

August 28, 2025

Christmas for the Shop Girls releases in TWO days!

 


Don’t Miss Christmas for the Shop Girls!

There’s something magical about a department store at Christmas — the scent of pine in the air, polished counters sparkling under gaslight, and windows dressed in dreams. But in Edwardian Bath, not everything is as picture-perfect as it seems...

I’m so thrilled to announce that Book 3 in my Edwardian saga, Christmas for the Shop Girls, arrives in just TWO days! And this year, the festive season at Pennington’s department store comes with an unexpected twist... there is a killer on the loose in Bath!

If you’re new to the series, Pennington’s is a world all of its own. Inspired by the department stores of the early 20th century, this is where the glamour of fashion meets the grit of ambition, romance meets possibility and every woman has a story worth telling.

You don’t need to have read the first two to enjoy Book 3 — but you may find yourself quickly devouring them all!

In Christmas for the Shop Girls, the store is glowing with festive magic — but darkness is creeping in around the edges. Could danger be lurking within Pennington’s itself?

Former Scotland Yard detective turned store security guard Stephen Gower teams up with shop girl Cornelia Culford to uncover the truth. But as their investigation unfolds, so does something neither of them expected: a romance forged in the unlikeliest of places.

This book weaves together all the things you love most about historical fiction:

A strong, smart heroine who refuses to be underestimated

A slow-burn romance with real emotional depth

 A page-turning mystery set in and around an Edwardian department store

What Early Readers Are Saying…

“An atmospheric and addictive read — I couldn’t put it down!”
“A perfect blend of cosy Christmas warmth and gripping historical suspense.”
“My favourite of the series so far — the romance made me swoon and the mystery kept me guessing!”

New to the Series? Start Here:

Book One: A New Start for the Shop Girls – Meet Elizabeth Pennington, fighting to modernise her family’s store while risking everything for love and independence.

Book Two: The Shop Girls Get The Vote – A suffragist and widowed father come together unexpectedly while fighting for the future of women’s rights.

Book Three: Christmas for the Shop Girls – Romance, danger, and secrets abound in a holiday season no one will forget...

(Each story can be read on its own, but together they paint a rich, emotional portrait of Edwardian life.)

Don't Miss Out!

Pre-order Christmas for the Shop Girls today and step into a Christmas past full of courage, heart, and high stakes.

👉 https://geni.us/OBP8Sr



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Published on August 28, 2025 02:33