Sshhh – Do You Want to Know a Secret about Chandlers Ford?

By Karen Stephen

Sshh – do you want to know a secret about Chandlers Ford?  You may not be aware that last year, we were thrilled and proud to publish a collection of short stories called “Secret Lives of Chandlers Ford” . Together with my writing chums,  Maggie, Catherine and Sally, we spent a year researching, writing and publishing our first anthology of short stories:  “Secret Lives of Chandlers Ford”. We wanted to write stories that were locally set and derived from the happenings and history of this lovely area. We also wanted to reflect Chandlers Ford modern and diverse characteristics.

Fast forward a year. The first book sold extremely well and generated much local interest.  Based on this feedback, we developed volume two, “More Secret Lives of Chandlers Ford” which was published earlier this year. Like the first, this second collection of fictional short stories is set in and around Chandler’s Ford. The stories are a mix of contemporary, historical, fun and romance.

2016 was a thrilling, nail-biting, roller-coaster  ride for us. It was the first book we had published. In many ways the writing and publishing were the easy parts. The harder part was working on marketing and selling the book. .

Although always available on Amazon as a Kindle or hardcopy book, we wanted the book to be accessible locally. We have been over-whelmed by the tremendous support we have received from Mibi,  Andersons, Bay Leaves, WH Smiths, Hospital of St Cross among others who sell the books in their shops. We have also held   “Meet the Authors” events at Bay Leaves and Smiths. We plan more events this summer.

We were excited to participate in events at Chandler’s Ford library and the Hampshire Writers’ Society. Indeed, one of the best (but most nerve-wracking events) was our slot as guest speakers at a recent Hampshire Writers’ Society meeting.

Our books now regularly feature at the monthly Chandler’s Ford Produce and Craft Market at Age Concern and the monthly Ampfield Market.

This has been an adventure. All of us agree that the most rewarding part of the journey has been meeting Chandler’s Ford residents. We’ve met hundreds of lovely people at various events during the last year. There have been many fun conversations with people concerned that “their” secret has been revealed (you know who you are – and sshh, your secrets are safe…for now!!).

There have also been fascinating discussions about the history of Chandler’s Ford and the many ways it has changed. These discussions provide more inspiration for further volumes. It has been a privilege to meet everyone. It’s especially exciting when someone says they’ve heard about the books or they loved the first one and want to buy the second.

The books have received great reviews. Despite the rather racy title, they are suitable for all ages and readers.

We hope you buy the books and enjoy them. We love to hear from readers. We love to chat. Contact us on:

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Chandlers Ford Lives @chfordlives