A Knaresborough business owner and her writing partner are hosting an official launch party tonight (Thursday) for their new book 'Over The Fence.'
Karen Haas is the owner of Yorkshire Eyewear on Knaresborough’s High Street.
And two years ago, Karen took time out of the practice to write a book with her writing partner, Julie Martin-Jones.
Karen said:
“I first met Julie and her husband Stu at our opticians in Knaresborough, she was and still is one of our patients.
“While Julie was in the testing room, Stu very proudly mentioned that Julie wrote, and I suddenly found that talking about writing lit something inside of me.”
After signing up to a beginner’s writing class at Rossett Adult Learning, both Karen and Julie built a close friendship.
Karen said:
“During one of the early classes, we were put into pairs to work on a writing exercise, Julie and I bounced off one another and we both realised that while we may have come together for other reasons, we had each found the perfect friend.
“85,000 words later and two years of laughing, crying, and of cathartic writing, we have a book published by Fisher King Publishing.”
Over The Fence
‘Over The Fence’ is described as a “diary of two women, how they view and judge life, and how one discovers a secret so well hidden, it could tear both their worlds apart.”
It follows neighbours Seren, a woman happily married to a doctor and the mother of two young boys, and Clarissa, who is married to a wealthy semi-retired financial advisor.
A preview of the book reads:
“The initial pleasure at having respectable new neighbours is soon lost when she realises they have children, and the regimented tranquillity of her life is thrown into disarray.
“The very sight of Seren triggers an extreme dislike in Clarissa and stirs up memories that she preferred not to recall.
“What ensues is a catalogue of confrontations that grow increasingly out of control.”
An official book launch is being held at Fairfax Manor on Wetherby Road from 6:30pm on Thursday 27th June.

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