Mrs. Quinn's Rise to Fame

A Novel

By: Olivia Ford

Narrated by: Melanie Crawley

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?


* This audiobook edition includes a downloadable PDF that contains recipes from the book.

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.

Characters

It made me want to get out all my Mom’s & Granny’s recipes written in their own hand & start baking.

Such a pleasant listen!

This was a pleasant listen. I kept guessing where the story was leading and each time, happily, I was incorrect. It's heartwarming alongside being heartbreaking. The relationship between Bernard and Jenny is a treasure.

Sweet and touching

Such a wonderful listen. The narration was excellent and even if I didn't love the story(which I did), I would have kept listening to this talented reader. Not even halfway through, I was looking up the author to see what else she had written and sadly didn't find a thing. There was a bit of everything in this story and you won't regret spending time with Jenny in her head, heart and kitchen.

Lovely in every way

Do you like baking and/or baking shows? This book is for you.

Have you/your family been touched by adoption? This book is for you.

Do you enjoy stories of love that endures for decades? This book is for you.

A charming and touching story. Give it a listen.

Sweet and Engaging

I loved this book. It was a great story, I was hooked right away! My husband only heard the end of it, and now wants to listen. It will be a repeat listen, can’t wait for Olivia’s next book.

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.

Lovely listen—really enjoyed the story and the reader is perfect

Being hearing impaired, I often have trouble understanding accents but Ms. Crawley’s performance was easily understood while bringing Ms. Ford’s story to life.

My favorite of 2024!

This was an unexpected gem! I love everything about Jenny! Her baking talent and bravery. The narrator has a lovely voice and does a wonderful job of keeping the reader engaged. To me, this is a MUST read! I was sorry the story ended!!