My Story

Hi, I'm Jane - Founder and Host of The Cotswold Book Nook.

Welcome to my Website:

My initial Cotswold Book Nook Reading Group was born out of my passion for books and a desire to connect with like-minded individuals.

My Background:

Ever since I was a child I've loved the magic of books. To this day (I'm now in my early fifties) I still adore the thrill of a brand new book - the cover design, the blurb, crisp unread pages, an unbroken spine, sometimes a map or family tree inside the front cover, the story unfolding and sparking my imagination. Escapism to other places and time frames.

I absolutely love visiting book shops, coffee shops within book shops, literature festivals and libraries.

Throughout 2026, I'm trying to attend more talks by some of my favourite Authors. 

There is a photo below of a delightful bookshop on a Dutch barge that I visited in London (near to Kings Cross) in July 2026.

Younger Readers:

I used to voluntarily help out in a local Junior School and listen to young readers several times a week. Youngsters having access to books and being able to read is extremely important to me. 

Creative Writing & Blog:

I've written short/nano fiction and poetry on a Wordpress blog since 2014. During 2024 and early 2025 I hosted in-person Holistic Creative Writing Groups. 

Books & Gifts:

A few years ago I ran a hobby business which I named The Cotswold Book Nook. Creating an ETSY Shop, I sold bespoke book and gift letterboxes. My packaging was eco friendly and recyclable, the gifts made by local traders here in Gloucestershire and elsewhere in the United Kingdom.

I transitioned from running my online book business to hosting in-person reading groups because I thoroughly enjoy stimulating conversations over a shared love of books.

Reading Groups:

My initial Cotswold Book Nook Reading Group was born out of my passion for books and a desire to connect with like-minded individuals. Having researched what was already available locally, I set about creating a book club that I knew 'I' would love to attend.

I hosted my first Group in March 2025 in Hucclecote, Gloucester and have been running it once per month ever since. In January 2026 I started a second Group in Longlevens. Both of these Groups are fully subscribed and have waiting lists. In June 2026 I hosted my third Group in Longlevens. 

I believe that reading and sharing our book experiences has a valuable place in the community. I'm committed to providing a welcoming Book Club in a cosy, relaxed space - where everyone can feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas.

One of my Missions:

Is to make reading accessible to everyone (especially young children) and I contribute monthly to the Children's Reading Charity - Book Trust.