The Lumby Lines by Gail Fraser Introduces a New Book Series

The Lumby Lines by Gail Fraser is the first book in a five book series that capitalizes on the success of Jan Karon's Mitford series. Many of the qualities of the Mitford books are brought to life once again in the quaint small town Lumby. Located in the Northwest and hours away from the nearest big city, Lumby is home to to the oldest apple tree in the country as well as quirky residents and charming businesses that will resonate with Mitford readers.

Lumby Lines Centers Around Montis Abbey

On the outskirts of the rural town of Lumby (or inside the city limits, depending on the map) are the remains of Montis Abbey, once home to an order of monks. Damaged in a mysterious fire, the abbey calls to a vacationing couple who want to escape their hectic lives and restore their marriage. Can the Walkers restore their marriage by restoring Montis Abbey?

Gail Fraser Follows in Footsteps of Jan Karon

Gail Fraser walks a fine line with Lumby. If imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, than Jan Karon should feel flattered, indeed. In Lumby as in Mitford, there are troubled youths, a charming older lady who is often a benefactor, small mysteries to be solved, a budding romance between a strong, spiritual figure and the new woman in town, as well as frequent humorous clips from the local newspaper. This will all sound very familiar to fans of Mitford.

Lumby Books Have Their Own Appeal

However, Fraser manages to create something fresh in Lumby, and the residents have their own personalities and stories to tell. While The Lumby Lines did not have quite the same spiritual depth as the Mitford series, there is still a strong moral center to the book. Readers will find much to admire in Mark and Pam Walker, their friends, and their efforts to restore the old Montis Abbey. But the series isn't just about the Walkers; it's about the town. Much like Mitford, Lumby isn't just a place -- it's a way of life.

Lumby Book Series

Other books in this series include: Stealing Lumby, Lumby's Bounty, The Promise of Lumby, and Lumby on the Air (coming July 2010).

About Gail Fraser

According to www.lumbybooks.com, author, Gail Fraser had a successful career in corporate America holding senior executive and upper management positions in several Fortune 500 corporations. Much like her characters Mark and Pam Walker, she gave it all up to move to the rural landscape of upstate New York. Fraser is married to Art Poulin, a rural folk artist, who has done all the Lumby book illustrations.

Sources:

The Lumby Lines - a novel by Gail Fraser
www.lumbybooks.com

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