The Vintage Village Bake Off

By: Judy Leigh

Narrated by: Phyllida Nash

From MILLION COPY BESTSELLER Judy Leigh

‘Brilliantly funny, emotional and uplifting’ Miranda Dickinson

Now in his seventies, Robert Parkin is stunned to find himself the unlikely sex symbol of the village gardening club.

Living in happy solitude with his cat Isaac Mewton in the Devon village of Millbrook, entertained by his mischievous chickens and goats, Robert has never figured out the rules of romance. But as the local ladies vie for his company, it soon becomes clear that Robert’s Victoria Sponge cake is the lure, and as his baking prowess grows, so does his confidence.

Cheesecakes, meringues, puddings, Robert can do it all, but his real masterpieces are his scones – ginger, rosemary, coconut, fruit, his recipes are inspired and soon come to the attention of the local media. Which county does the best cream tea – Devon or Cornwall? It’s time for an age-old debate to be settled with a competition.

Robert’s sisters Bunty and Hattie are both at crossroads in their lives, so news of their brother’s baking competition is the perfect excuse to bring them to Millbrook. And as the siblings relish each other’s company, and Robert relishes being at the heart of his community, a summer of scones may just light the way to long-lasting happiness for them all.

Enjoy Judy Leigh’s wonderful world of family, friendship and feasting in this perfect feel-good story for all fans of Maddie Please, Dawn French and Caroline James.

©2023 Judy Leigh (P)2023 Boldwood Books

Critic reviews

'What a happy, uplifting book this is. Set in Devon with a skilful look at village life, second chances and finally finding happiness in unexpected places, Judy Leigh conjures up a wonderful story and some unforgettable characters. Highly recommended!' Maddie Please

‘I thoroughly enjoyed this gentle romantic comedy which made me laugh a lot and cry a little. No one says it better than Judy - it’s never too late to find love.’ Julia Jarman

Brilliant, fun and wonderful

I couldn’t wait for this one to come out. I love all her books. This author does an incredible job with characters that are having an awakening. I feels empowering. I love these love affairs with women in their twilight years. These books make you laugh and cry.

An inspirational story of today! Told with knowing what’s healthy!!

Thank you, Judy! I have been listening to your stories for the last couple years, during a time I had lost hope and accepted toxicity. I came out of it, with your help and my own heart. And now I listen to your stories excited for life and to hear what is happening in the lives of your complex characters and lovely towns!

My favorite Leigh novel

I loved the characters so much. So well written. I would love to see this novel made into a movie or mini series.