For 15 years, author Tessy Braun has enjoyed living in the Bradley Stoke area, a community she loves for its strong sense of togetherness.
Tessy says that living here offers the best of both worlds – the vibrancy of the city of Bristol, with its theatres and historic harbourside just a stone’s throw away. Yet the area maintains a distinct suburban charm away from the hustle bustle of the city. She says she feels lucky to enjoy access to beautiful green spaces, including the Three Brooks Nature Reserve, the plentiful park space as well as easy-access to the M5 to head back down to her childhood routes on the edge of Dartmoor. She particularly loves the Little Stoke Community Cafe, which hosted the launch of her debut novel last November.
Tessy is known for her character-driven contemporary fiction and poetry, all infused with her appreciation for nature’s beauty. Her recent stories, set against the vivid backdrops of Cornwall and south Wales, are celebrated for their emotional depth and evocative settings.
While her writing journey began with a passion for poetry and spoken word, her love for fiction has blossomed, leading to the publication of two full-length novels. She is particularly excited about her recently launched novel, Searching for Solace. The story follows 27-year-old, surf-loving Morgan Pryce, who prides herself on her independence. Living amid the rugged beauty of Wales, Morgan has built a simple life, yet an inexplicable sense of incompleteness lingers. An unexpected gift – a battered, second-hand metal detector – sparks a new passion. As Morgan explores windswept beaches and ancient fields, the treasures she unearths propel her on a journey far deeper than she ever anticipated. Tessy, a metal detectorist herself, weaves this hobby into the fabric of Searching for Solace, bringing an authentic touch to Morgan’s discoveries.
Tessy has also written Sophie’s Shell and Other Curious Tales, a collection of short stories designed to challenge perceptions of what’s possible. These quirky, quick reads offer surprising and thought-provoking narratives.
Her next book event, Bream Book Fair in the Forest of Dean, is on August 17. This fantastic community event promises a delightful family afternoon. It aims to unite local creatives alongside a diverse selection of books, both new and old, all while raising vital funds for Packed with Love, an organisation dedicated to supporting children in emergency care.
Tessy is an advocate for storytelling and encourages anyone with a tale to tell to explore the power of the written word. Her work is deeply inspired by the west of England, a region she has explored through two poetry collections featuring Devon, Cornwall, and Wiltshire, alongside other beloved areas such as the Lake District and North Yorkshire.
To delve deeper into Tessy’s work, visit tessybraun.co.uk and follow her journey on social media. You can also buy her books direct from her website or from Amazon.