So far this year has been a challenge, after filing for divorce and moving out of my family home I began a new adventure. In February, I moved into a ramshackle cottage that didn’t have a working bathroom, with a rundown kitchen and not a decent space to write my books. I felt like I was glamping but with no glamour in my life! Then we were hit by a pandemic, the country went into lockdown and with no service constantly displaying on my phone, continuing power cuts to my old dilapidated shack and no Wi-Fi installed I was then thrown into home schooling on top of writing my books. However, despite living through these difficult times 2020 has taught me a lot in life, you fall out with people you never thought you would. Get betrayed by people you trusted with all your heart. And get used by people you would do anything for. But life also has a beautiful side to it. You will get loved by someone you never thought you would have. Form new friendships with people that will establish more meaningful and stronger relationships. And overcome things you thought you’d never get over. We all have chapters that end but I take pride in knowing that this year has moulded me into a strong independent woman in charge of my own destiny. I’ve developed as a writer, I’m dreaming big, working hard and staying focussed. The very best part of my book is still be written and I couldn’t be happier.

This book, The Lake House was sparked from a floating hotel back in my home town of Northwich in the 1980s. The iconic Floatel was built on the River Weaver and saw early success as the only hotel in the town centre. But due to the credit crunch it spelt the end for the unique structure off London Road and demolition took place in November 2009. I was always fascinated by the structure of the hotel and even back then I imagined a hideaway restaurant further up the river and the only way to dine there was travelling by boat – the idea for The Lake House was born many years ago!

Huge thanks to everyone that has accompanied on my writing journey so far. I truly value each and every one of you and it’s an absolute joy to hear from my readers via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

Please do keep in touch and look out for Primrose Park – the next book in the Love Heart Lane series is coming very soon!

Warm wishes,

Christie xx

Acknowledgments