An author who grew up in Oxfordshire has told the story of her travels through the Mediterranean's islands in her new memoir.

Laura Coffey's first book, 'Enchanted Islands: Travels through Myth & Magic, Love & Loss', is set for release this May.

It tells the story of her travels as she looked for solace from the pain of heartbreak, her father's cancer diagnosis and death, and feeling like her life was falling apart and takes inspiration from Homer's The Odyssey.

The book follows Ms Coffey as she discovers the benefits of cold-water swimming on the islands, learns about the art of ‘bird ringing’ on Menorca, and falls in love with the islands behind the classic text.

British actor, Stephen Fry, said about the book: "A magical and hugely captivating journey - filled with such beauty, wonder and surprise.

"Like the original Odyssey and all that follow it, Enchanted Islands is about finding one's way home."

He described it as a "simply marvellous read", adding he "hugely recommended" others read it.

On May 20, 6.30pm, Ms Coffey will be discussing her memoir and signing books at The Woodstock Bookshop at 23 Oxford Street, Woodstock.

Tickets are available from the Woodstock Bookshop website.

Ms Coffey grew up in Oxfordshire and studied at Cambridge University.

She advised three Prime Ministers, and has written for a number of publications including The Guardian, BBC Travel and Condé Nast Traveller.