Libby Page is a Sunday Times bestselling author, known for her feelgood novels exploring themes of community, love and connection.
Born and raised in Dorset, Libby’s roots provide a strong foundation for her storytelling.
Her debut novel The Lido received widespread acclaim for its heartwarming narrative and exploration of love in its many forms. Libby has continued to captivate readers with her subsequent novels The 24-Hour Café and The Island Home. Each is infused with a deep understanding of human emotions and the power of connection. Her latest novel, The Vintage Shop of Second Chances, was published in February, and is based in Frome.
In the story, after the death of her beloved mother, Lou is opening her own vintage clothes shop in the town. In upstate New York, Donna is questioning her past. Her only clue is a picture of a yellow dress, currently on display in a shop in England.
Maggy is facing life as a 70-something divorcee. The new vintage shop in town sparks memories of her past and reignites a passion she’s been missing.
Can these three women find their answers – and unlock a second chance?
In her spare time, Libby is a keen outdoor swimmer and she now lives just over the border in Somerset with her husband and young son. Her Twitter followers are still awaiting the tale behind the tweet about a (presumably) Dorset Morris Dance-related incident … (see below)
Sturminster Literary Festival
Libby will be taking part in the Sturminster Newton Literary Festival. On 8th June she will appropriately be appearing in 1855, giving a talk about The Vintage Shop of Second Chances. After the talk and book signing, the team from The Boutique in Sturminster Newton will hold a fashion show of pre-loved items. Tickets are £10 and include a glass of prosecco on arrive – book here
And so to the 19 random questions…
- What’s your relationship with Dorset?
I grew up in Gillingham! I went to school there and I visit regularly, as my mum still lives there. - The last film you watched?
Mrs Harris Goes to Paris. It was a lovely escapist treat. - It’s Friday night – you have the house to yourself, and no work is allowed. What are you going to do?
I am going to curl up on the sofa with a good book and a takeaway. I’ll probably have a bath and then I’ll be in bed by 9pm.
- What book did you read last year that stayed with you? What made you love it?
I loved Jojo Moyes’ latest book, Someone Else’s Shoes. I especially loved it for the depiction of female friendship and the impact of depression on a marriage. It was really moving but also uplifting. - What was the last song you sang out loud in your car?
Bitch by Meredith Brooks! - What would you like to tell 15 year-old you?
It’s going to be OK.
And yes, you WILL become an author! - Tell us about a sound or a smell that makes you happy?
The sound of my toddler snoring … and the smell of hyacinths. - What’s your secret superpower?
Being able to nap at any time of day, anywhere. Literally, anywhere. - What would you like to be remembered for?
Being kind to the people I love, and for writing books that made people smile.
- Your favourite quote?
‘…but what if it all goes right?’
I have it hanging on the wall in my writing room. I’m a natural worrier, and it helps to remind me that sometimes the worst doesn’t actually happen after all! - Your top three most-visited websites (excluding news and social media)?
The Novelry – where I work as a writing coach
Substack – I have my own newsletter
Lucy & Yak – basically I’m always contemplating which dungarees to buy next - Chip shop chips or home-baked cake??
Definitely cake. Every time, thank you! - Tell us about one of the best evenings you’ve had?
My wedding party!
It was delayed due to COVID by two years, and it meant so much to finally have everyone we loved in one room – including our son, who didn’t exist when we got engaged! - What is your comfort meal?
Baked tomato and mozzarella gnocchi - Your most annoying trait?
Getting distracted!
When my mind is in my books and with my characters, I have a horrible habit of just not finishing sentences.
Your most annoying trait? - What was the last gift you either gave, or received?
Flowers, on both counts! I gave them to my mum for Mother’s Day and also received them from my son and husband! - What in life is frankly a mystery to you?
The revival of 90s fashion … - You have the power to pass one law, uncontested. What will you do with it?
Allow public access to the UK’s waterways and put in place stricter rules to stop the pollution of our rivers and seas. - And finally, the best biscuit for dunking?
Chocolate digestives!
