Rave reviews for debut Marlow author (From Bucks Free Press)

Rave reviews for debut Marlow author

1:10pm Sunday 12th February 2012 in Marlow By Jade Coulon

A SUCCESFUL author from Marlow whose debut novel has recently received rave reviews from national papers, will be signing copies of her book, Jubliee, at the library this month.

Shelley Harris' debut novel is set during the Silver Jubilee in 1977 and the present day. It follows an Asian boy called Satish and a photo of him at a street party that becomes the iconic image of the 1970s.

Mrs Harris, a former journalist and English teacher said: "I wanted to explore the idea of neighbours living as part of a community and celebrating these events together but not knowing everything that goes on behind closed doors, the secret and revelations."

Released in January ahead of Diamond Jubilee celebrations this summer, Harris' novel set in the fictional Bucks village of Bourne Heath, has already impressed the Independent and The Guardian who said: "a new novelist whose next book you are already impatient to read."

The 45-year-old mother of two was delighted with the positive judgement. She said: "It’s amazing, absolutely amazing. When you publish something you send it out there, you release it in to the world and you have no control of what people are going to think of it.

"I had always secretly hoped those papers in particularly would enjoy it and that has been confirmed."

Despite the novels royal kinship, Harris admits she is no monarchist and for her, patriotic celebrations are about communities.

"I’m no great monarchist surprisingly but I’m lucky enough to live in a close knit road so for the Royal Wedding we had a big old knees-up. I’m sure we will celebrate in a similar way this summer for the Diamond Jubilee.

"For me, royal celebrations are more about being with your neighbours and friends and feeling part of a community."

On February 21 at 7pm, Mrs Harris will be at Marlow Library, reading from Jubilee and holding a Q&A. She will also be signing copies of the highly commended book which will be available to buy on the night.

The event is free but ticketed so you will need to contact the library on 0845 2303232 to reserve a space.

A similar event will be held at Wycombe Library on March 17 at 2pm.

The Guardian will be pleased to here that Harris is currently working on her second book. She said: "I am drafting my second novel which is also set locally, but its in such an early stage I don’t want to say too much.

"I hope this is the beginning of a career in writing."