A BROMSGROVE author is celebrating the release of her debut novel, which offers readers local connections weaved into a story of love, family life and loss.

Fiona Partridge first had the idea for her book fifteen years ago but it was not until last year during the Covid pandemic that Fiona finally put pen to paper.

‘The Colour of Marriage’ is set in Bromsgrove with a protagonist who studied marketing at Worcester University before marrying his teenage sweetheart, Annie, who he took on a first date to Sanders Park.

The story paints a picture of married life when the impact of young children saps the energy and romance from a once strong relationship.

Bromsgrove residents will also spot local references, such as the Boat Shack at Upton Warren and the Mint Lounge on Birmingham Road within the story.

Four publishers offered Fiona a contract for her book, and several suggested it had great potential as a film, but she decided to self-publish with Bristol-based SilverWood Books, allowing her greater control over the final product.

Fiona said: “The book offers appeal for so many people, who will relate to different scenarios in it.

“It’s all about choices and every one of us makes choices every day without knowing (or even thinking about) what the future consequences might be.

“Messing up and sometimes making the wrong choices is part of life. My book is an exploration of the journey that follows the reality of a poor life choice and the understanding it brings.”

The official launch of ‘The Colour of Marriage’ took place on Facebook Live on Monday. October 18.

Fiona is hoping to be able to hold a face-to-face book signing event next Spring, when all Covid restrictions will hopefully have been lifted.

The book is available to buy at www.fionapartridge.co.uk.