I’m so delighted today to be joining the blog tour for the latest book from Judy Leigh, Golden Girls on the Run, and sharing my review: published by Boldwood Books on 6th December, it’s now available as an e-book (free via Kindle Unlimited), in paperback and hardcover, and as an audiobook. As always, my thanks to Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for the invitation and support, and to the publishers for my advance reading e-copy (provided via netgalley).
I really don’t need to tell you again how much I love Judy’s books, do I? They always make me laugh – and often wipe away a tear too – while reminding me that I’m not really past it at seventy and that there’s lots more fun to come. Pop her name into my search bar, you’ll find all my reviews – and I was particularly thrilled when I found out that this book was picking up some of the characters I’d enjoyed so much in The Vintage Village Bake Off (you’ll find my review of that one here). I remember how much I loved watching Hattie slowly recover her sparkle (while sister Bunty created her usual chaos), and Robert found that there was more to life than baking the perfect scone. Don’t worry if you missed it though, there’s a quick catchup in a note at the book’s start, and a family tree if you feel you need it at any stage: and this book is really Sadie and Bronagh’s story, two characters who we haven’t met before, both in their eighties and living life to the full, and I loved them from the very opening pages…
When octogenarian sisters-in-law Sadie and Bronagh find themselves at the centre of a scandalous (and slightly explosive) bake-off fiasco, there’s only one thing to do – steal Sadie’s grandson’s gleaming red Ferrari and make a run for it.
Sadie is the practical one, all cardigans and contingency plans. Bronagh treats rules as loose suggestions – especially if mischief or wine is involved.
What begins as a quick getaway across Ireland soon spirals into a wild, cross-country adventure filled with fake identities, unexpected friendships, and more than a few brushes with the law.
Sadie and Bronagh may be on the run, but what they find at the journey’s end might just be what they were missing all along…
When trouble strikes at the bake-off in Ballycotton, the two lifelong friends – both in their eighties, but living life to the full – are so glad to have the keys to Sadie’s grandson’s Ferrari and be able to roar off and escape the consequences. Dublin first, where they get involved in more mayhem – then the decision to get on the ferry and drive down to Cornwall. Robert and Hattie, who live in the village of Millbrook, are the brother and sister of Sadie’s daughter-in-law (are you following so far – it’s not as complicated as it reads!), and they’re certainly not expecting these two tearaways to arrive on their doorstep. And it doesn’t help that Sadie’s not really sure of Robert’s address – and when they eventually find it, discover that he’s away for a while and they’ll have to wait for him to return.
They rather fall on their feet with a B&B at the Tails of Hope Animal Sanctuary, where they become very much part of the family. And they manage to meet up with Hattie, and Robert returns from his stay away – and they also become very much part of the life of the community (while continuing to get involved in various shenanigans…). But when their extended Irish family discover where they are, and with Christmas fast approaching, they all set out on their own road trip, in a motley collection of vehicles, to bring them home.
That’s enough of the story, I think – I’m sure you’ll love all its various twists and turns and laugh-out-loud moments as much as I did. And I certainly loved Sadie and Bronagh – such wonderful characters! Bronagh’s very much the ringleader, telling increasingly unlikely and inventive tall tales at every opportunity, always in the middle of the action – not averse to dancing on a table, but in her more private moments perhaps not entirely the confident and carefree soul she appears to be. Sadie’s the one who tries (I emphasise “tries”) to keep things on an even keel – supporting her friend quite wonderfully but also always looking for opportunities to bring some joy into the lives of others.
Witnessing their friendship that’s lasted so many years does your heart good – and when the family arrives, I really enjoyed their different characters and relationships too. And as Christmas draws ever closer, and there are so many activities planned for the community… I’ve said enough, but must say I loved every single moment. The animal sanctuary features large in the story, along with the attempts to fundraise to secure its future – and that makes for a few really touching stories along the way. And it was good to spend time with Robert and Hattie again too – both with their own story lines, nicely drawn to a close.
This would make a lovely festive read – but would be equally enjoyable whenever you chose to pick it up. It made me laugh, it made me cry – and some of the set pieces made me want to cheer out loud. Yes, you’ve guessed it – it really was my new favourite from an author whose books I unfailingly love. A complete joy from beginning to end – do add it to your reading list!
About the author
Judy Leigh has lived all over the UK from Liverpool to Cornwall, but currently resides in Somerset. After teaching theatre, writing lyrics for a punk band and setting up Shakespeare Festivals, she completed an MA in Professional Writing.
All her novels celebrate the ups and downs of life, relationships, the power of laughter and the belief that everyone has a second chance at happiness, whatever their age.
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Thanks so much for your kind and evocative words, Anne. I always look forward to reading your reviews on all books – they’re invariably sensitive and clever. But your comments on my novels always bring a tear of joy and I look forward to them so much. I loved hearing about your holiday and the great books you read. Jessica’s and Louse’s are favourites of mine.Sending best wishes.