People / My Bristol Favourites
My Bristol Favourites: AA Abbott
The latest novel by author AA Abbott is Run For Your Lies, a fast-paced tale set in Clifton which explores dark themes of vengeance, guilt and redemption.
AA Abbott, the pen name of Helen Blenkinsop, is best known for her psychological thrillers about women finding strength in the face of danger.
An online book launch will take place on December 4, where AA Abbott will be joined by podcaster Michael MacMahon and fellow author Jane Duffus.
is needed now More than ever
These are her top-five Bristol favourites:
The Zig Zag
The Zig Zag connects Hotwell Road to Sion Hill – photo: Martin Booth
“Walking up the Avon Gorge via the Zig Zag path is a great free workout. Trees cocoon you, birdsong soothes your soul and the leaping foxes unsettle you. (I spotted one, lithe as a cat, vaulting up the cliff face.) I never fail to get creative inspiration from the Zig Zag, the scene for a fight to the death in my psychological thriller, Lies at her Door.”
Ruby Jeans
Ruby Jeans on The Parade in Shirehampton is located in a former NatWest bank – photo: Martin Booth
“There’s lush coffee all over Bristol, and I especially love a latte at this friendly brunch spot on Shirehampton Green. The staff are cheerful and efficient, customers sociable, and the menu offers both healthy options and cakes. Ruby Jeans is an easy place to lounge about with a laptop and bash out a few words.”
Henleaze Library
Henleaze is one of 26 libraries across Bristol – photo: Martin Booth
“Or any library, really. They’re the best thing since sliced bread for bookworms on a budget. When my son was small, we spent Saturday afternoons at Henleaze Library. He sat around reading stories before choosing a bag of books to borrow. The following week, we’d rinse and repeat. Great stuff.”
The Portcullis
The Portcullis pub is on Wellington Terrace next to Royal York Crescent – photo: Martin Booth
“The Portcullis in Clifton is a dreamy backstreet boozer with fairy lights, cracking craft beers and a warm welcome. As a lifelong CAMRA member, I love a pub where they pour a perfect pint.”
Clifton Camp
Observatory Hill is on the site of a 2,000-year-old Iron Age hillfort, the ramparts of which still exist – photo: Martin Booth
“While the camera obscura on Observatory Hill is really cool, I’m intrigued that the tower sits atop an Iron Age hill fort, Clifton Camp. There are a few more hill forts dotted around Bristol as well, including the site of Civil War skirmishes around Fremantle Square in Kingsdown. Imagine the sights, scents and sounds of battle in places you’d pass without a second thought.”
Fremantle Square in Kingsdown is close to the site of Prior’s Hill Fort which defended the north side of Bristol during the English Civil War (1642-1646) – photo: Martin Booth
Main photo: AA Abbott
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