A couple of years ago, I was doing one of my first ever library talks with a grand audience of two people. The wonderful thing was that one of those people was a chocolatier. In conversation that evening, the lovely June Carruthers said I could always contact her if I ever felt like writing about chocolate. Well then, that set the seed in my mind.
When I wanted a new setting for my second series of Cosy books where better than a chocolate shop by the sea! I always say to write what you are passionate about and I'm certainly passionate about chocolate - it's such wonderful stuff and you can make so much with it: truffles, ice creams, milkshakes, brownies, cakes, croissants, cookies, all sorts of divine chocolates and more.
So the research had to begin in earnest (it's a hard job but somebody's gotta do it!). June was so friendly and welcomed me to her home where we ended up having a chocolate making and tasting session.
Next, I visited the fabulous chocolate shop and café Cabosse in Warkworth, in my home county of Northumberland, where I met and interviewed Louise Frederique a french chocolatiere. Her shop is so inspiring and quaint that the Chocolate Shop in the fictional village of Warkton-by-the-sea in my novel is based on that. It was Christmas time and the displays were wonderful - enough to make your mouth water.
I have also chatted with The Chocolate Spa in Alnwick, Kiki's Chocolates in Coldingham and Bev Stephenson from North Chocolates. Huge thanks to everyone for their time, help and support.
I hope you enjoy reading my new book. Settle down on a summer's day with a chilled glass of prosecco, your favourite chocolates and escape to The Cosy Seaside Chocolate Shop. And look out for the truffle recipe in the back! Here's some I made earlier ...
Happy reading!
Love and best wishes,
Caroline x
What scrummy photos. I love the insights into your research and to hear how the seeds of an idea were sown.
ReplyDeleteThanks Zoe - lovely to hear from you!
DeleteI would want to read and review your book.
ReplyDeleteOnly just found your books so not started reading them yet. Been made redundant has given me some unexpected time to myself. I have been to Warkworth numerous times & had delicious chocolate & almond croissants & hot chocolate in Cabosse so if this is where you drew inspiration, I'd better get some chocolate to eat while I read!!!
ReplyDeleteHello Caroline , I have just read two of your books which I really enjoyed being a born and bred Geordie! Just to let you know there are a few typos in both ' The cosy teashop in the castle' and 'The Cosy Christmas Tea Shop'
ReplyDeleteKind wishes Jan
Reading My Summer of Magic Moments while on holiday in Madeira. I love the escapism of your writing as well as touching on the very real issues of survivorship. I can't wait to read your other books! Any plans for visiting the South West?!
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