Literary Lunch – Ruth Leigh

Come along to April’s Literary Lunch with Ruth Leigh

We are thrilled to announce our next Literary Lunch event featuring the talented author Ruth Leigh! Join us on Tuesday, 29th April 2025, from 12:15 pm to 2:15 pm, at The Old Bull Inn, Royston.

Ruth will be in conversation with our host, Jude Simpson, about her latest book, “A Great Deal of Ingenuity“, a delightful collection of short stories that shines a light on the often-overlooked lives of characters from Pride and Prejudice. This promises to be an engaging and entertaining event, perfect for literature lovers and Jane Austen fans alike.

Ruth Leigh

Ruth Leigh is a dedicated novelist and freelance writer residing in beautiful East Suffolk with her husband, three children, and a cat. With over fifteen years of experience, she has worked with charities and small businesses, helping them convey their stories through engaging content. Her knack for transforming ideas into compelling prose has made her a valued contributor to her community.

Ruth launched her literary career with The Diary of Isabella M Smugge in February 2021, followed by three more novels in the series. In 2023, she ventured into new territory with A Great Deal of Ingenuity, a collection inspired by Pride and Prejudice, and The Little Book of Unexpected Poetry. Her writing showcases her unique voice and ability to bring characters and stories to life.

Having learned to read at just four years old, Ruth’s passion for storytelling has deep roots. Her first piece of fiction earned her a gold star in primary school, igniting her lifelong love for writing. With a diverse range of freelance clients, Ruth excels at turning raw data into polished narratives, embodying the sentiment, “You can throw Ruth a few bones and she’ll produce a delicious bowl of soup.”

Books

Ruth has written several books, including:

• The Diary of Isabella M Smugge (February 2021)
• The Trials of Isabella M Smugge (October 2021)
• The Continued Times of Isabella M Smugge (2022)
• The Further Adventures of Isabella M Smugge (August 2024)
• A Great Deal of Ingenuity: A Collection of Pride & Prejudice Stories (July 2023)
• The Little Book of Unexpected Poetry (October 2023)

Book Synopsis

At our Literary Lunch, Ruth will be showcasing her latest book, “A Great Deal of Ingenuity.” This delightful collection of short stories shines a light on nine intriguing characters from Pride and Prejudice, exploring their unique perspectives and untold tales. Readers will discover the trials of Mr and Mrs Collins in their married life, the hopes of shy Maria Lucas in her search for love, and the feelings of Sally the maid as she mends Lydia’s muslin gown. Each story offers a fresh glimpse into the bustling worlds of Meryton, Rosings Park, Pemberley, and Hunsford, inviting readers to experience Austen’s universe like never before.

With her engaging narrative style and keen insights, Ruth invites readers to rediscover the charm and complexity of Austen’s world, highlighting the lives of characters often left in the shadows.

Why Ruth Leigh is the Perfect Guest for Home-Start

Ruth Leigh’s ability to weave meaningful narratives around familiar themes of love, family, and community makes her an ideal guest for Home-Start’s Literary Lunch. Her work aligns with our mission to support families and enhance the lives of children, offering valuable insights and inspiration for our community. Ruth’s unique perspective on character development and storytelling complements Home-Start’s values and commitment to nurturing relationships.

Purchase your tickets here