Mrs. Quinn's Rise to Fame

A Novel

By: Olivia Ford

Narrated by: Melanie Crawley

Length: 11 hrs and 12 mins

Publisher's summary

A huge-hearted, redemptive coming-of-old-age tale, a love story, and an ode to good food

Nothing could be more out of character, but after fifty-nine years of marriage, as her husband Bernard’s health declines, and her friends' lives become focused on their grandchildren—which Jenny never had—Jenny decides she wants a little something for herself. So she secretly applies to be a contestant on the prime-time TV show Britain Bakes.

Whisked into an unfamiliar world of cameras and timed challenges, Jenny delights in a new-found independence. But that independence, and the stress of the competition, starts to unearth memories buried decades ago. Chocolate teacakes remind her of a furtive errand involving a wedding ring; sugared doughnuts call up a stranger’s kind act; a simple cottage loaf brings back the moment her life changed forever.

With her baking star rising, Jenny struggles to keep a lid on that first secret—a long-concealed deceit that threatens to shatter the very foundations of her marriage. It’s the only time in six decades that she’s kept something from Bernard. By putting herself in the limelight, has Jenny created a recipe for disaster?

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

©2024 Olivia Ford (P)2024 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

“Ford’s writing is sentimental without being saccharine, and the scenes from Jenny’s youth are, much like Jenny’s pastry, deliciously layered. . . For anyone who’s ever wished they could read, instead of watch, reality TV.” —Kirkus

“This novel is perfectly baked, utterly delicious, and completely moreish. Mrs. Quinn is destined to become the nation’s favourite.” —Clare Pooley, New York Times bestselling author of Iona Iverson's Rules for Commuting

“Soul-enriching….From its enticing setting to its perfect ending, Mrs. Quinn’s Rise To Fame is absolutely marvelous. Like a great dessert, you’ll wish you could come back for more.” —J. Ryan Stradal, New York Times bestselling author of Kitchens of the Great Midwest

Must read for GB baking show lovers!

If you’re a fan of the Great British Baking show, this book is for you! I loved how the baking challenge was intertwined with the characters story. I also loved the relationship Jenny had with her husband. It’s the feel good story we all need!

How a secret shaped 2 lives

I liked the brave decision to apply for Britain Bakes, the reality of the pain of giving up a child, the joy of baking and the wonderful love between Jenny and Bernard. Jenny was a delightful and very real protagonist.

Wonderful story!

I LOVED this book!! Such good characters and a very touching story. The narration was perfect!

Mrs Quinn takes the cake! 🎂

What a delightful story. Just enough depth to keep it from being too sweet. Great narration. Loved it!

Stunning

Wonderful story and narration. Will be thinking about this book for a long time. Absolutely loved it!

Cozy & unexpected heartwarming storyline

Feels like you're in the kitchen with someone's grandma and emphasizes the joys of family even when they aren't the most traditional set up. At any age, you're allowed to find a new facet of yourself.

Cozy like an apple pie❤️

Loved the characters and didn’t want to put it down. ❤️ Beautiful and heartbreaking journey, true love and superb thread of cooking throughout 😊

Beautifully plotted

I had no idea how much I would enjoy this book. I was attracted to the story when I saw it included a British Baking competition.
It was well beyond simply a Baking Competition!
The characters beautifully drawn.
I know the history is accurate from my own studies, but it is much more than a slice of delicious history or sweets.
I can’t wait for the authors further stories.

Wholesome Sweets

A lovely and delicious story full of sweetness and delight. Wonderful narration and filled with mouthwatering desserts. A real delight from start to finish.

Absolutely Wonderful Feet Good Novel!

Expertly narrated by Melanie Crawley, this wonderful feel good novel brims with humor, intelligence, warmth and charming characters. Pure sunshine -- without a hint of saccharine -- this is the kind of book that stays with you long after you've finished reading it.

If you're not moved to (happy) tears by the ending, I'd have to question if you actually have a heart at all. Highly recommend!