THE HISTORIC links between the Forest and Wye Valley and Bristol are not lost on local author Jeannie Johnson.

Jeannie, who lives at Tintern, will be cleverly linking them into a trilogy of novels planned over the coming years which explores the impact of the sugar industry on Bristol .

A character in the trilogy will be a woman bargee who works on trows, the traditional sailing boats once such a feature of life on the Severn and Wye.

Jeannie is celebrating the publication of her first novel "The Rest of Our Lives" released recently by Orion Publishing.

It is the first of a two-book contract for the famous London publishing house.

The second book has already been completed - and to Jeannie's delight the publishers have already signed her up to produce the 'suger' trilogy, the first of which will be completed by 2004.

A Tintern resident for 14 years – her husband Dennis operates a drilling rig at Clearwell quarry – Jeannie enjoys the peace and quiet of the Wye Valley.

"I enjoy the country life and we are very happy here," says Jeannie.

Jeannie says she was fortunate to have the text of her first book read by a publisher who had seen a previous manuscript she had completed.

"It had been 'quite liked' but was not published. Fortunately the same publisher received my second attempt and signed me up for the two books," she said.

"The Rest of Our Lives" explores the impact of the Second World War on three women from very different backgrounds who meet on Temple Meads Station waiting for the return of their loved ones.

Book two continues to saga which is described as 'as poignant as it is readable.'

Born and brought up in Bristol, Jeannie has worked in law, the probation service, tourism and as a supporting artiste in such dramas as Casualty and Holby City.

But life in Tintern suits her writing which she completes quickly.

"I'm fortunate to be a touch typist so I find I can complete 2,000 words quickly. I know when I have to do things so if necessary I can easily work late into the night to complete things ahead of deadlines," she said.

Will there be a book featuring the Wye Valley or Forest?

"I think bits will filter in. There are historical links between the areas. I have nothing planned but you never know what the future may hold," said Jeannie.