At the Captain's Table

A summer cruise on the Empress of the Ocean is filled with excitement, luxury, and relaxation, but also bickering couples, lonely penthouse suites, precocious twelve-year-olds, and unlikely friendships. This is the perfect escapist read for fans of Gervase Phinn's Yorkshire novels and readers of Celia Imrie, Alan Titchmarsh, and Maeve Haran.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 16 March 2023
Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton

A summer cruise promises a luxurious and relaxing getaway, but for the passengers and crew of the Empress of the Ocean, the sights of the Mediterranean pale in comparison to the excitement on board. Bickering couple Albert and Maureen hope the trip will be a much-needed escape, or perhaps the final straw that tears them apart. Elegant Frances de la Mare seeks to socialize with the elite, but her penthouse suite offers a lonely experience. Meanwhile, precocious twelve-year-old Oliver discovers that guidebooks don't cover everything, leading to unexpected sparks when the port lecturer is upstaged by a popular author. Dancers Bruce and Babs struggle to keep in sync, and cruise expert Neville yearns for companionship. As unlikely friendships form, feuds simmer in the laundry room, and everyone competes for a seat at the Captain's table, their plans quickly going awry.

Warm, funny, and uplifting, this novel is a delightful escapist read for fans of Gervase Phinn's Yorkshire novels, as well as readers of Celia Imrie, Alan Titchmarsh, and Maeve Haran. Gervase Phinn is a worthy successor to James Herriott, and his characters are just as endearing and captivating. The Empress of the Ocean sets sail on a journey filled with laughter, camaraderie, and unexpected surprises, leaving readers eagerly anticipating the next adventure.

Weight: 298g
Dimension: 127 x 197 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529389180