A Kirkby Lonsdale author is set to celebrate the launch of her debut novel with an event in the town that she's "proud to call home".

Danielle Owen-Jones' romantic comedy Stone Broke Heiress, will be the subject of a reading, Q and A, and book signing at the Book Lounge in Kirkby Lonsdale on Friday 1 April at 6pm.

Danielle previously worked in journalism and before moving to Kirby Lonsdale in 2016, launching her PR business Bloomin' Creative, with publisher Bookouture (part of Hachette), calling Stone Broke Heiress: "a riotous fish-out-of-water comedy in which protagonist Arabella 'goes from Prada to nada' when her family’s soup empire goes bust. 

"It is set in Liverpool and has been hailed as the new must-read for fans of romantic comedy icons Sophie Kinsella and Lindsey Kelk, together with the hit TV show, Schitt’s Creek."

The Westmorland Gazette: SCRIBE: Danielle Owen-Jones was inspired by Sophie KinsellaSCRIBE: Danielle Owen-Jones was inspired by Sophie Kinsella

Danielle said that the book was years in the making, though the 2020 lockdown gave her the time and focus to refine her script: 

"The story has completely changed from those early drafts. 

"The concept was loosely based on the reality TV show Made in Chelsea, and the idea of being so wealthy, but then losing everything and starting over again.

"When I signed with my agent, she helped me shape and strengthen the story too. 

"For example, it was originally set in London, and now it’s set in Toxteth (Liverpool), which gives it an interesting angle."

Danielle said that she has always been an avid reader and explained her influences:

"My bookshelves in my bedroom growing up were my pride and joy. 
"I was one of those kids queuing up outside Waterstones to buy the new Harry Potter book the minute it was out (or my mum or grandmother were while I was at school!)

"I especially loved Lemony Snicket and R.L. Stine, and everything Jacqueline Wilson ever wrote, I devoured.

"Without a doubt, the most significant influence on my writing style is the queen of rom coms: Sophie Kinsella.

"Ever since I picked up the first Shopaholic book when I was about 12/13, I just fell in love with her natural wit and warmth. 

"I read widely and I appreciate every book genre, but romantic comedies have definitely shaped my writing."

Valerie Laycock, owner of The Book Lounge, said: “We’re really pleased to host this event and are proud to support local authors.

"The launch event should be a great evening and we’re looking forward to welcoming guests to The Book Lounge."

"Commissioning editor at Bookouture, Emily Gowers, said: "I asked the universe for something to fill the Schitt’s Creek-sized hole in my life, and Danielle delivered!

"This book had me doubled over with laughter, and left me wishing Bella was real so that we could be friends. 

"The next best thing though is to introduce her, and Danielle’s writing – to the world, and I feel so lucky to be doing this!"

Stone Broke Heiress will be published in e-book, paperback and audio on Monday 21 March.