Picture a British storyteller who spun tales of love and community against the windswept Norfolk coast—meet Cressida McLaughlin! A bestselling author of uplifting romantic novels, she’s captured hearts with over a million books sold worldwide. From her 2015 debut, Wellies and Westies, to her beloved Cornish Cream Tea series, McLaughlin’s cozy, heartwarming stories invite readers into worlds brimming with charm and connection.
Born in South East London, McLaughlin grew up in a home overflowing with books and a cat named after Lawrence of Arabia. Her passion for storytelling and her knack for crafting feel-good romance have made her a favorite among readers seeking an escape into love and laughter.
The Making of Cressida McLaughlin
Raised in a book-filled London household, Cressida McLaughlin’s earliest memory is her father reading The Wind in the Willows, sparking a lifelong love for stories. She studied English Literature at the University of East Anglia, honing her craft in Norwich, where she now lives with her husband, David. Though she didn’t initially see herself as a writer, reading women’s fiction like Harriet Evans’ A Hopeless Romantic inspired her to pen her own tales. Her debut in 2015 marked the start of a prolific career, blending her love for romance with her book-nerd roots.
Cressida McLaughlin’s Unforgettable Stories
McLaughlin’s novels are like a warm hug, filled with vivid settings and relatable characters. Her debut, Wellies and Westies, kicked off the Primrose Terrace series, following a dog-walker’s romantic adventures in a charming neighborhood. The Cornish Cream Tea series, including The Cornish Cream Tea Bus, whisks readers to Porthgolow, where baking and love intertwine against a stunning Cornish backdrop. From Cornwall with Love explores second chances in Port Karadow, earning praise for its sunny, immersive vibe.
Her writing style is evocative yet accessible, painting Norfolk and Cornwall’s landscapes with a romantic glow. Themes of community, resilience, and finding one’s place resonate deeply, often featuring adorable pets and quirky locals. The Canal Boat Café series, another fan favorite, follows Summer Freeman’s journey on a narrowboat, blending romance with the charm of canal life. McLaughlin’s ability to craft escapist yet relatable stories has cemented her as a go-to for feel-good fiction.
Why Cressida McLaughlin Matters
Cressida McLaughlin’s impact lies in her ability to create worlds where love and connection triumph. Her novels offer readers a comforting escape, earning glowing reviews from authors like Phillipa Ashley and Cathy Bramley. With a knack for evoking joy, her stories resonate with those craving hope and warmth, making her a cornerstone of contemporary romance. Her million-plus sales reflect a global appetite for her uplifting narratives, proving that cozy romance is a universal language.
- Born: South East London
- Key Works: Wellies and Westies, The Cornish Cream Tea Bus, From Cornwall with Love, The Canal Boat Café
- Fun Fact: She’s a self-proclaimed ghost story fan and dreams of being a ghost hunter!
Snag The Cornish Cream Tea Bus and dive into Cressida McLaughlin’s heartwarming world of romance and seaside charm!