LONGLISTED FOR THE WOMEN'S PRIZE FOR FICTIONA BBC 2 'BETWEEN THE COVERS' BOOK CLUB PICK'Wonderful' RICHARD OSMAN'Perfect' INDIA KNIGHT'Beautiful' JESSIE BURTON'Witty and sharp' DAVID NICHOLLS1957, the suburbs of south east London. Jean Swinney is a journalist on a local paper, trapped in a life of duty and disappointment from which there is no likelihood of escape. When a young woman, Gretchen Tilbury, contacts the paper to claim that her daughter is the result of a virgin birth, it is down to Jean to discover whether she is a miracle or a fraud. As the investigation turns her quiet life inside out, Jean is suddenly given an unexpected chance at friendship, love and - possibly - happiness.'Gorgeous . . . I could not recommend it more' PANDORA SYKES'Remarkable . . . Small Pleasures is no small pleasure' THE TIMES'Irresistible . . . wry, perceptive and quietly devastating' MAIL ON SUNDAY Read more

Escape it all with this hilarious, heartwarming read from the Sunday Times bestseller and author of Kindle sensation The Woman Who Ran Away from Everything..Sometimes life can be bittersweet . . . Between tending to the whims of her seven-year-old and the demands of her boss, Viv barely gets a moment to herself. It’s not quite the life she wanted, but she hasn’t run screaming for the hills yet.But then Viv’s husband Andy makes his mid-life crisis her problem. He’s having an affair with his (infuriatingly age-appropriate) colleague, a woman who – unlike Viv – doesn’t put on weight when she so much as glances at a cream cake.Viv suddenly finds herself single, with zero desire to mingle. Should she be mourning the end of life as she knows it, or could this be the perfect chance to put herself first?When life gives you lemons, lemonade just won’t cut it. Bring on the gin!Fiona’s hilarious new book,The Dog Share, is available for pre-order now! The perfect antitode for Lockdown 3.0Readers love When Life Gives You Lemons:‘A fun, wild and light-hearted read and a look inside what most women are faced with today!’ *****‘Give me more stories like this one! Great characters, great plot and an author who is a talented storyteller’ *****‘Had me laughing out loud and giggling most of the time I was reading it’ *****‘I was rooting for her from start to finish. Loved it’ *****‘When life gives you lemons, slice them, put them in a G&T and read this book’ ***** Read more

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A delightful novel. Sit back, snuggle down and immerse yourself in this charming workplace romance. It is a page-turner of a read . . . a perfect setting and a gorgeous story.’ Caroline James, bestselling author of The CruiseA second chance at a first impression.When Anna Wright interviews for a job as assistant to celebrated photographer Daniel Redfern it’s her last chance to follow her dream to work in the fashion industry.Daniel is the best in the business, but notoriously difficult. His reputation for exacting standards precedes him. Standards Anna fails to meet when she turns up at his office fifteen minutes late . . . and soaking wet.Daniel doesn’t give second chances, but Anna is not what he was expecting. She’s feisty and fearless, and challenges him when he oversteps the mark. He could be making the mistake of his career, but he offers her a trial period.As she works alongside him, Anna can’t deny her growing attraction to Daniel. Maybe she’s misjudged him — is he really the arrogant celebrity he’s famed to be?Sparks fly between them. Now Anna and Daniel must decide whether to take a chance on love, or allow their first impressions to keep them apart.This opposites attract, grumpy sunshine is perfect for fans of Jane Austen retellings, Mandy Baggot, Rachel Dove, Susie Tate, Camilla Isley, Portia MacIntosh, and Sue Moorcroft.Readers love First Impressions:‘This was such a wonderful and enjoyable read! I loved this book and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys this genre.’‘Oh my goodness. This book pulled every heart string and was just adorable! I was so excited to start this book and couldn't put it down.’‘A cute and fun read.’‘[I] couldn't put it down . . . Highly recommend.’Tropes:❤️ Second-chance❤️ Work based romance❤️ Grumpy x sunshine❤️ Single dad romance Read more

A fun, feel-good read from Top 100 bestselling author Carmen ReidThere's just one accessory Annie Valentine can't find...the perfect man!Meet Annie Valentine: stylish, savvy, multi-tasker extraordinaire. As a personal shopper in a swanky London store, Annie can be relied on to solve everyone's problems . . . except her own.Because as a busy single mum to two kids, Annie’s realised there’s a gap in her life as well as her wardrobe. But with her heart still hurting from losing the love of her life, Annie’s discovered that finding the perfect partner is turning out to be so much trickier than finding the perfect pair of shoes!Can she source a genuine classic? A lifelong investment? Or will Annie realise that her perfect man is already sitting on the front row of her life…Fans of Sophie Kinsella, Lindsey Kelk and Paige Toon will love this laugh-out-loud romantic comedy from bestselling author Carmen Reid.Praise for Carmen Reid:'If you love shopping as much as you love a great read, try this. Wonderful' Katie Fforde'Annie Valentine is a wonderful character - I want her to burst into my life and sort out my wardrobe for me!' Jill Mansell'I loved her then, I love her now. Annie's back and she's better than ever! Fun, feel good and feisty - Annie Valentine is the woman you want to share a cocktail with!' Portia MacIntosh'You will enjoy getting to know Annie Valentine; laughing with her and crying with her. You may even fall in love with her . . . I have! A fantastic read!'⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Reader Review'Fantastic read, couldn't put it down' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Reader Review'Can't wait to read the next one!' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Reader Review Read more

The “exquisite and richly illustrated” New York Times bestseller from the renowned makeup artist, “a retrospective written for all women, everywhere” (Vogue France).Makeup, as we know it, has only been commercially available in the last 100 years, but applying decoration to the face and body may be one of the oldest global social practices. In Face Paint, Lisa Eldridge reveals the entire history of the art form, from Egyptian and Classical times up through the Victorian age and golden era of Hollywood, and also surveys the cutting-edge makeup science of today and tomorrow. Face Paint explores the practical and idiosyncratic reasons behind makeup’s use, the actual materials employed over generations, and the glamorous icons that people emulate, it is also a social history of women and the ways in which we can understand their lives through the prism and impact of makeup.“Makeup artist and Lancome global creative director Lisa Eldridge drops serious knowledge in Face Paint, her book on the history of beautifying.” —Marie Claire“Clear your coffee table and turn off YouTube—Lisa Eldridge’s book is a must read.” —Teen Vogue “The book is not only rich with history but also with a series of paintings, sketches and photographs in an intense array of colors, selected by the make-up artist herself in the most aesthetically pleasing universal statement to women you’ll ever see.” —Vogue France“Face Paint delves into the history of makeup, with glossy pictures to match . . . the book’s cover is striking.” —New York Post Read more

A laugh-out-loud, feel-good novel from Top 100 bestelling author of Worn Out Wife Seeks New Life!She's hit the big time... hasn't she?Personal shopper, Annie Valentine, is presenting her own popular TV fashion series. But despite this being Annie’s dream job, success isn’t all it’s cracked up to be and suddenly Annie is feeling the pressure!Especially as boyfriend Ed is left at home looking after their brand-new twin babies, whilst Annie comes to terms with fame.And as Annie gets more and more sucked into the celebrity showbiz world, she feels like she’s losing more and more of who she really is.Could the big break she’s always wanted, actually be a big mistake?Fans of Sophie Kinsella, Lindsey Kelk and Paige Toon will love this laugh-out-loud romantic comedy from bestselling author Carmen Reid.Praise for Carmen Reid:'If you love shopping as much as you love a great read, try this. Wonderful' Katie Fforde'Annie Valentine is a wonderful character - I want her to burst into my life and sort out my wardrobe for me!' Jill Mansell'I loved her then, I love her now. Annie's back and she's better than ever! Fun, feel good and feisty - Annie Valentine is the woman you want to share a cocktail with!' Portia MacIntosh'You will enjoy getting to know Annie Valentine; laughing with her and crying with her. You may even fall in love with her . . . I have! A fantastic read!'⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Reader Review'Fantastic read, couldn't put it down' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Reader Review'Can't wait to read the next one!'⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Reader Review Read more

The definitive guide to knitting cozy, colorful socks, covering every aspect for knitters of all abilities.The Sock Knitting Bible is the ultimate reference for sock knitting skills, techniques, materials, projects, and more. Here you'll find in-depth information on everything from sizing and yarn to casting on and color-work. Whether you want to knit toe up, cuff down or even two at a time socks, this comprehensive volume covers it all.There are step-by-step instructions for all the various sock knitting techniques, as well as three basic sock patterns that even an absolute beginner can follow. Author Lynne Rowe also looks at the different kinds of tools available, from double pointed needles and small circular needles to innovative products such as flexible DPNs.And it all comes together with ten delightful projects by some of the most exciting and talented sock designers. Here you will find patterns for stripes, fair isle, cables, lacy, sparkly and snuggly socks: an array o pattern for all your sock-knitting needs! Read more

The crafting superstar and author of Love to Sew shares 12 customizable bag projects plus tips and techniques for creating your own designs.It can be difficult to find just the right bag design: you might want the shape and pockets of one combined with the size and handles of another. But how do you put all these different elements together to create your perfect bag? Debbie Shore teaches you how in Sew Brilliant Bags. Her friendly advice and step-by-step instructions make it easy to create these designs or mix and match the techniques, ideas, or fabrics to make your own creation. Debbie offers a wide variety of projects, including a large, square-bottomed beach bag, a zipped, curved-top shoulder bag, an oilcloth tote, a pleated cosmetic bag, and a three-pocket cross-body bag with a magnetic fastener. She also covers a range of techniques, from adding piping and making eyelets to inserting zips, adding handles and straps, and creating a square bag base. Read more

Rule No. 1: Don’t piss off the Sick BoysThey’re cruel. Reckless. Impossibly messed up.The Sick Boys feed on the order they create. They rule Eastpoint University just as their families have for decades. But their power doesn’t stop there. The three of them are heirs to some of the largest fortunes in the world, and behind that kind of wealth lies an underworld of corruption.On the surface, they’re perfect princes and he is their King. But underneath it all, they’re filled with blood, lies, and secrets. With all of their connections, they have the power to crush anyone who gets in their way. But just because they’re as warped as I am doesn’t mean I’m going to give them a free pass.Because I, Avalon Manning, bow to no one, and I live to break the fucking rules.***This is a Dark MF Enemies to Lovers College Romance.******Please Note: This book is labeled as "Dark" for a reason. If you are sensitive or easily triggered by subjects and actions that are common in "dark" romance, please take that into consideration and read responsibly.*** Read more

No matter your skill level, stay warm and stylish in cold weather with this simple guide to creating 100 wonderful, winter accessories.   This gorgeous book brings together 100 of the best winter knits from bestselling author and knitting designer, Monica Russel. Previously published in the 20 to Make series, these fabulous designs are quick and easy to make, and include scarves, wrist warmers, hats, boot cuffs, headbands and snoods. With designs for men, women and children in a range of colors and styles, there is something for everyone in this valuable knitting resource.   “These 100 patterns for winter accessories will satisfy beginning and experienced knitters alike . . . . Knitters will find the variety of patterns inspiring, and most will not be able to resist making pig boot cuffs for their wellies. The range of style and skill level represented in these patterns . . . make this a solid choice.” —Booklist Read more

“Crocheters looking to move beyond basic granny squares, as well as new crocheters drawn to these traditional motifs, will enjoy this collection.” —Library JournalWith twenty-five brand new squares and twenty-five all-new projects!Since it was first published in 2011, The Granny Square Book has instructed and inspired more than 70,000 crocheters to make and create beautiful, stylish projects with these classic motifs. Now designer and author Margaret Hubert has updated her bestselling and beloved book to include twenty-five additional crochet squares (for a total of 100!) and twenty-five all-new projects to make, wear, and give.Margaret shows the evolution of the granny square, how it can be used and interpreted in different ways with different yarns, and how today’s crocheter can design her own projects using the granny squares of her choice with the yarn choices of today. Among the designs are accessories (headbands, bags, and jewelry); garments (vests, jackets, and tops); and decorative items and gifts (afghans, pillows, and a sweater set for baby). The Granny Square Book, Second Edition, offers crocheters at all skill levels more and more to love about this timeless motif.“Delightful . . . If you like to crochet granny squares but are looking to go ‘beyond the blanket,’ this might be the book for you!” —Underground Crafter Read more

Beloved knitwear designer Melissa Leapman offers a comprehensive stitch dictionary and guide with more than 300 original knitting patterns, including slip stitches, cables, and lace.Knitters love their stitch dictionaries. Melissa Leapman, known for her knitting references, shares 300 of her favorite stitch patterns developed over her long career. With basic step-by-step knitting instruction, information on how to most effectively use a stitch dictionary, and a wealth of original stitch patterns, this book will appeal to all levels of knitters looking for a comprehensive, yet portable volume. The book includes stitch patterns in five categories from imaginative novelty stitch patterns to traditional knit designs. Each stitch pattern includes a gorgeous photograph as well as written and charted instructions. Read more

An uplifting, laugh-out-loud novel from Top 100 bestselling author Carmen ReidHer passion is fashion... but she's on a budget!Personal shopper Annie Valentine is about to hit the big time: presenting a glamorous TV makeover series! This is it for Annie and her little family. No more scrimping and saving, finally all her hard work has paid off.But life in the spotlight isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.Soon, Annie discovers this is TV on a shoestring and her budget is zip. But more than this, Annie feels as though the women she should be helping to look fabulous, go away feeling all the more like fashion failures!Can Annie make it in the spotlight? Or will making it big mean losing who she really is?Fans of Sophie Kinsella, Lindsey Kelk and Paige Toon will love this laugh-out-loud romantic comedy from bestselling author Carmen Reid.Praise for Carmen Reid:'If you love shopping as much as you love a great read, try this. Wonderful' Katie Fforde'Annie Valentine is a wonderful character - I want her to burst into my life and sort out my wardrobe for me!' Jill Mansell'I loved her then, I love her now. Annie's back and she's better than ever! Fun, feel good and feisty - Annie Valentine is the woman you want to share a cocktail with!' Portia MacIntosh'You will enjoy getting to know Annie Valentine; laughing with her and crying with her. You may even fall in love with her . . . I have! A fantastic read!' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Reader Review'Fantastic read, couldn't put it down' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Reader Review'Can't wait to read the next one!' ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ Reader Review Read more

“These easy-to-follow instructions will have you hooking up a whole new wardrobe of beautiful, creative crochet pieces you will be proud to wear.” —WeCrochet magazine   Making crochet tops has never been so easy! Crocheted squares and rectangles can be shaped and combined to form a surprising array of pullovers, cardigans, lightweight tops, and wraps. Simple instructions will have you creating a variety of gorgeous crochet apparel. Most designs are beginner or intermediate level and build upon your knowledge of basic stitches to create textural styles that look more complex than they are. Crochet two squares to make the Diamond Crop Top, an on-trend lacy look you can whip up quickly, or crochet a rectangle, fold, and add sleeves to make the Goldenrod Cardigan, a squishy, comfy wrap to wear all year. Sumptuous yarns in gorgeous colors from Lion Brand’s vast selection of yarns were chosen for the pattern samples shown in this book, assuring that all of the yarns used are easy-to-find, affordable options. Crochet in the colors shown, or try your own color scheme. Lion Brand yarns have a large selection of colors from which to choose, so enjoy the yarn aisle! Read more

See granny hexagons in a whole new light with this inspired collection of modern crochet patterns for clothes, accessories, and homewares.Hexagons are quick and easy to make and can be combined in a myriad of ways to create a huge range of projects—from garments and accessories to home décor and even toys.In this unique collection, popular crochet designer Sarah Shrimpton reveals ten crochet hexagon patterns and twenty step-by-step projects that you will be itching to stitch thanks to their simplicity and creativity. This refreshing twist on the classic granny square will get you excited about the possibility of the humble six-sided polygon and how it can be used to create gorgeous projects . . . one little hexie at a time.Includes:A wide range of projects from garments and accessories to home décor and toys, all made using simple crochet techniquesProjects are built up in a modular way—individual modules are portable, great for using up scraps, and easy to fit into small pockets of timeA selection of hexagon projects to enjoy and so much more Read more

Mix and match your next crochet project with the ultimate granny square collection.Combining bold colours and playful, eye-catching patterns, this unique crochet collection contains over 125 designs covering a wide range of themes for all ages. The book includes:Seasonal collections including winter snowflakes, autumn leaves, and spring floralsTextured effects including puffs, bobbles, and filet crochetOver 40 3D appliqué designs including animals, stars, shells, and rainbowsEvery square is designed to be worked up at the same size, making it easy to mix and match to create your own unique items, or follow the suggested combinations to make themed blankets, cushions, and more. You can even design your own granny squares using tapestry and bobble stitches, so you can crochet projects that are truly unique to you and your loved ones. And, once you’ve crocheted your squares, learn how to join and edge them to create a neat finish.Whether you’re creating a playful baby blanket, a statement cardigan, or a colour-block tote bag, The Granny Square Book is packed with everything you need to crochet your next project – one square at a time. Read more

Do you have no clue where to start when it comes to crocheting? Discover simple techniques to create amazing patterns in just three days. Have you tried crocheting only to get confused by the stitches, hooks, and other details? Have you given up or put your crocheting projects on the back burner hoping for an easier way? Author Emma Brown learned to crochet and knit at her grandmother’s feet and has started crochet circles in just about every city she’s lived in. Now Brown is sharing all of her grandmother's secrets with you. In Crochet for Beginners: Quick and Easy Way to Master Spectacular Crochet Stitches in 3 Days, Brown walks you through various crochet techniques step-by-step. Gone are the complicated explanations and confusing terminology, replaced by beautiful, easy-to-follow visuals. Brown's smart system can take you from beginner level all the way up through more complex projects like crocheting afghans. In no time, you'll feel more comfortable with this relaxing, artistic, and satisfying process.Inside Crochet for Beginners, you’ll discover:How to master almost any crochet pattern in as little as three daysHow to make all 21 gorgeous crochet patterns featured in the bookThe specific hooks to purchase for your projects and how to know which stitches are whichA comprehensive glossary of those tricky crochet terms10 fast-track tips to get you started quickly and easily, and much, much more!Crochet for Beginners is an incredible resource for any crochet fan, whether you're a beginner or an experienced pro. If you like your crochet instructions packed full of tutorials, diagrams, and full-color photos, then you’ll love Brown's landmark book.Buy Crochet for Beginners to stitch your hobby together today! Read more

Cold weather is coming, and that means it’s time to start thinking about winter accessories! One of our favorite things to wear in the winter is a cute knitted headband. They are usually quick and easy projects that use a small amount of yarn (making them great for stash busting!). They are perfect portable projects because of their small size and they make great gifts – especially for those who want to keep their head or ears warm without wearing a hat. But they can also be used as workout gear or even for bad hair days. Headbands are versatile and useful, so if you have some leftover yarn lying around, check out the patterns in this book for inspiration.These patterns are adorable, easy to follow, and, best of all, they knit up quickly! So whether you’re a beginner or a master knitter – if you’re looking for a quick and easy knitting project, be sure to check out these patterns! Read more

These crochet poncho patterns all stand out from the pack. They are diverse in color, stitch, shaping, and style. However, they all embrace that chic level of comfort that modern fashionistas have come to expect from the poncho. In addition to classic poncho styles, you'll find some crochet ruanas and other variations in the mix. There is truly something here for everyone, so whether you want to load up your own closet with crochet ponchos or use the patterns to make gifts for everyone you know, this is a collection you should read right now. Read more

Felted Hats: A Comprehensive Guide to Crafting Unique HeadwearUnlock the art of creating stunning felted hats with this comprehensive guide that takes you from beginner to advanced techniques in wool felting. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a curious novice, this book offers detailed instructions, step-by-step projects, and valuable insights into the world of felted hats.Inside, You’ll Discover:Fundamentals of Felting: Learn about the characteristics of felted hats, the history of this ancient craft, and the benefits of incorporating felt into your wardrobe.Materials and Tools: Get acquainted with essential materials, including different types of wool and tools needed for successful felting.Techniques and Projects: Explore a variety of techniques, from basic wet felting to advanced sculptural elements, and create six beginner, five intermediate, and four advanced projects to challenge your skills and spark your creativity.Troubleshooting Tips: Overcome common felting challenges with practical solutions to ensure every hat you make is a masterpiece.Care and Maintenance: Discover how to keep your felted hats looking their best for years to come.Each chapter is filled with inspiring photographs and helpful illustrations that guide you through every step of the felting process. This book not only provides the technical know-how you need to create beautiful felted hats but also encourages you to explore your artistic expression.Whether you're crafting hats for yourself as gifts, or to sell, "Felted Hats: A Comprehensive Guide to Crafting Unique Headwear" is your ultimate resource for turning wool into wearable art. Dive into this creative journey, and let your imagination run wild as you discover the joy of felted hat making! click the buy now button to get your copy today Read more