Fun, sexy, feisty, romantic and realistic – Freya North’s novels are characterized by her perceptive treatment of the highs and lows of everyday life, often coupled with searching issues and edgy subjects.

She is now an established brand – a lively and articulate spokeswoman for love, sex and friendship - and all the messy bits in between.

Her readers trust her to deliver entertaining yet poignant novels chronicling situations they can relate to.

Chances is Freya’s eleventh novel. Poignant, funny and raunchy, it delves headlong into how we learn to let go of the past and embrace the future; exploring the chances we give – and those we take.

The novel features Vita trying to move on from a dysfunctional relationship but still co-owning a small gift shop with her ex; and Oliver, a brooding tree-surgeon and widower who’s been avoiding emotional entanglement for casual encounters.

A troublesome pear tree and an elderly shop-lifter bring the hero and the heroine together; Vita and Oliver must assess whether they’re prepared to take a chance on love again.

The author will be giving a talk on her work and new novel at St Albans Library on Tuesday, revealing the secrets to her success and taking questions from her fans. Early booking is essential.

Freya North is at St Albans Library, The Maltings, St Albans on April 12 from 7pm to 8.30pm. Details: 0300 1234 049