Return to rugged Cornwall this Easter, for romance favourite Jennifer Bibby’s new novel Hot Cross Buns at the Little Cornish Bookshop.
We caught up with Jennifer to ask her about the inspiration for the story, the pleasures of bringing the quaint village of Polcarrow to life, and why it felt particularly special to be writing about bookshops in the 2026 National Year of Reading.
In one sentence, how would you describe your book?
Sunny and bright, the perfect springtime seaside escape.
What inspired you to write a story about a girl finding her place by the sea?
The idea of writing a story about a bookshop opening in Polcarrow was originally a suggestion from my editor, Claire and the idea just grew from there. Having Effie move out of her homely comfort zone and into the unknown provided me with a lot of scope to create a character who has to learn to trust her own instincts. Effie likes to play it safe but everything in Polcarrow comes along to challenge her, and she rises and triumphs every time. Going to Polcarrow gave her the opportunity to stand on her own two feet and flourish, which she probably wouldn’t have done if she’d stayed at home with her parents in Penzance. As lovely and supportive as they are!
Effie loves her quiet life in Cornwall—what made you choose this setting for her story?
As the book was a follow on from Christmas at the Little Cornish Bakery, the setting was chosen for me. However, as for why I set my stories in Cornwall, well, really it’s the fact that it feels so far away, somewhere you can really escape to. Little communities tucked into the wild landscape, the gorgeous blue sea and of course, a cream tea or two! Also, I think readers can really relate to the feeling of wanting to have their own seaside escape. Personally, I love the tranquillity of being by the sea, the way the light on the coast shifts differently.
Bookshops and reading feature heavily in the story. Why is this important to Effie (and maybe to you)?
Books have always been Effie’s solace. There is something almost magical about stepping into a bookshop. A sort of hushed reverence as people browse, the scent of the books, the stacks of recommendations. I’ve always loved reading and quaint little independent bookshops are always a joy to explore. With 2026 being the National Year of Reading, it feels extra special to have written a book that has a celebration of books and reading at its core. I’m also an ardent supporter of libraries.
If you could step into Polcarrow for a day, what would you do first?
Tea and scones at Lola’s of course! I’d probably also like her to read my tarot cards as she seems to be very accurate with her predictions. I’d follow this up with a walk along the seafront and maybe a paddle in the sea if it’s warm enough. I’d finish with a visit to the bookshop, as I’d expect to leave carrying more novels to add to my immense TBR pile!
What’s one thing you hope readers take away after finishing it?
I hope readers come away from spending time with Effie and Jake feeling satisfied, happy and full of the joys of spring arriving. That they feel they’ve had a holiday in book form. I also hope it will inspire them to return to Polcarrow this Christmas for a visit to the Inn!
