Family saga / generational saga fiction

Book SynopsisThe new sun-drenched summer read from the bestselling author and TV presenter''Soak up the glamour'' PRIMAYou're invited to the most glamorous wedding of the yearThe guests are gathering under the Mediterranean sun, and as the champagne flows, so do the secretsThe childhood sweetheartsCarina is marrying the love of her life. But he isn't the person she thinks he is.The dazzling bridesmaidHollywood starlet Edie is hiding a secret that could destroy her best friend.The unexpected guestMother-of-the-bride Philippa is stunned by the arrival of a lover from her past.Are scandal and betrayal about to destroy their happy ever after?Readers love Secrets of the Villa Amore!''This book was a joy to read'' ????? Reader review''Couldn''t put it down'' ????? Reader review''It had me gripped from start to finish'' ????? Reader review''Another wonderful book very refreshing and engaging'' ????? Reader reviewCarol Kirkwood''s book ''Secrets of the Villa Amore'' was a Sunday Times bestseller w/c 2023-Trade ReviewPraise for Carol Kirkwood:‘Soak up the glamour … A great summer read’ Prima ‘Expect plenty of glamour and dramas in this sunshine read’ – Choice ‘A real treat, wonderfully escapist with heart and drama – marvellous!’ Anton du Beke ‘An exquisite tale of love lost and found that’s full of intriguing characters and romantic locations. A Perfect summer read.’ Judy Murray ‘An absolute cracking read – it’s brilliant!’ Steph McGovern presenter of Packed Lunch ‘Sun-soaked, glamorous escapism.’ Cressida McLaughlin ‘A sizzling summer read. I couldn’t put it down.’ Alex Brown, bestselling author of The Secret of Orchard Cottage

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Book SynopsisSet in Scotland in the 1920s, this is the story of a girl who has to rebuild her life in the face of a scandal that could ruin her chances for happiness. 'In the tradition of Catherine Cookson.' Liverpool PostTrade ReviewIn the tradition of Catherine Cookson * Liverpool Post *'An unforgettable story of love and heartache.' * Dundee Courier on Lost Dreams *'An absorbing and entertaining read.' * Bolton Evening News, on For Better, For Worse *'If you enjoy Cookson you will love this.' * Bradford Telegraph & Argus on Legacy of Shame *'A stirring tale, rich in heartache and warmth with an unquenchable zest for life.' * Northern Echo on Gift of Love *'Everything a reader could possibly wish for. It's brilliant.' * Bangor Chronicle on For Better, for Worse *

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Book SynopsisGlorious and moving World War II saga following the battles, loves and struggles of four performers who put aside their careers to do their bit in the war against GermanyTrade Review'A compelling story' * Publishing News on WE'LL MEET AGAIN *'A gripping and touching novel.' * Good Book Guide on NEVER SAY GOODBYE *'Green's book is a delightful and heady mix of romantic ingredients - spies, high-kicking dancers, forbidden love and friendship in the face of death. Who could ask for anything more?' * Lancashire Evening Post *'An unforgettable saga of love and loss in wartime' * Good Book Guide *

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Book SynopsisChristine Summers is a pretty young teacher in a country school in the 1930s and the apple of more than one man''s eye .Christine has no intention of sacrificing her independence to marry anyone, least of all Charley Noonan, the rough-tongued young farmer who has been pursuing her for years. When she meets lonely widower Alan Kelso, however, Christine finds herself falling in love.Alan has also caught the eye of pony breeder Beatty McCall. Passionate, experienced and unscrupulous, Beatty wants is willing to offer him more, it seems, than Christine can ever hope to match. But sometimes all it takes to fall in love is dancing to the Paradise Waltz . . .Rich in tangled affections and intriguing characters, in THE PARADISE WALTZ Jessica Stirling captures all the pain and humour of life a small, gossip-ridden village in the time between two world wars when wireless and the cinema were changing everyone''s ideas about romance.Trade ReviewWell paced and a pleasant read. * Historical Novels Review *Jessica Stirling's high reputation is well deserved. * Manchester Evening News *She writes in bright colours with bold, confident strokes. * Glasgow Herald *Jessica Stirling is one of Scotland's most prolific and best-loved authors. * Scottish Daily Record *One of the best. * Bookseller *

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Book SynopsisAt the age of eighteen, Alice Ware is pretty, charming and impetuous. Back home in Yorkshire at the start of a new century, she is determined to seize any fresh opportunities and experiences that come her way. The arrival of a new neighbour, the elegant and scandalous Mrs Emma Cheevey, leads to visits from her two highly eligible soldier sons. Alice is instantly drawn to Matthew, the younger brother - and then Captain Steven Cheevey arrives home from South Africa, where he was part of the British expeditionary force at the Relief of Mafeking.Alice''s choice is made, her future secure . . . until a reckless decision throws the lives of three people into turmoil. Reluctant to return home, she seeks refuge in the one place where she knows she will find peace, perhaps for ever. It will take a visit from the man who loves her to persuade Alice to reconsider and dare to live again.Trade ReviewJessica Blair knows how to keep the reader enthralled for page after action-packed page * Yorkshire Post *Jessica Blair writes a fast moving plot and creates characters we care for * Northern Echo *Written with genuine affection and personal insight into the dangerous wartime years and the grim realities of frontline service, this is a stirring tale to stiffen the sinews and warm the heart * Lancashire Evening Post *

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Book SynopsisJanuary, 1920. Young Englishwoman Margaret Dalton is full of excitement as she arrives in Sydney to begin a new life in the warm, golden land of Australia. She leaves behind the horrors of WWI and can''t wait to see her husband, Frank, after two years of separation.But when Margaret''s ship docks, Frank isn''t there to greet her and Margaret is informed that he already has a wife . . .Devastated, Margaret must make a new life for herself in this strange city, but she soon falls in love with its vibrant harbour, sweeping ocean and clean sea breezes. A growing friendship with army sergeant Tom McBride gives her a steady person to rely on. But just as Margaret and Tom begin to grow closer, news arrives that Frank may not have abandoned her. Will Margaret''s life be thrown upside down once again? And where should her loyalties lie: with the old life or with the new?Inspired by the true stories of war wives who arrived in Australia, THE WAR BRIDE is a gorgeously Trade ReviewPamela Hart makes the details of daily life shimmer and pierces our hearts with a love story that carries the weight of sacrifice -- iBooks (Best Books of the Month)Deeply insightful into the lives of the women left behind in Sydney. We fell in love with the headstrong heroine Ruby. We can almost feel her longing, as well as the frustrating injustice she faces with the social pressures placed on a young woman moving into new times. Hart skilfully builds up suspense in this poignant novel and its dramatic conclusion is breathtaking * Better Reading *

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Book SynopsisLucy Bailey is not a girl to take no for an answer. When she asks her friend Billy Wellington to help her rescue a stray dog, she has no idea of the potential repercussions. A serious crime is committed while Billy is absent from the children''s home where he lives and, when suspicion falls on him, the police decide that the safest thing for everybody is to lock him away in a mental institution.Lucy refuses to believe that Billy has done anything wrong, and enlists her cool-headed teenage brother Arnold to help. DI Daniel Earnshawe, who has his own doubts about the police''s conclusions, turns out to be unexpectedly helpful, and Billy has someone else on his side too: Helen Durkin, a beautiful, damaged girl who has been seeking to make amends for her past. With so many daring and resourceful people battling on his behalf, it looks as though Billy''s freedom will soon be won - before an unexpected development sees Arnold too fall foul of the law. Refusing to give up hTrade ReviewA moving story and well told - Yorkshire Evening PressA staunchly powerful novel by a local author

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Book SynopsisA heartwarming saga about war, love and duty by the bestselling author of The Street and East End Angel.North London, 1916. When Olivia Bone and Lieutenant Lucas Black shared a passionate kiss one summer''s evening, it seemed as if their love might finally have a chance to bloom.But their brief happiness is cut short when Lucas is sent to fight on the front line, leaving Livvie uncertain if she''ll ever see him again. And after a chance encounter with one of Lucas''s old flames, Livvie is left doubting whether an ex-factory girl like her will ever fit into his world - and wondering if she would be better off protecting her heart.While her friends in London busy themselves with marriage plans and dreams of babies, Livvie returns to France, throwing herself into her work as a war nurse on the Western Front. But when two German prisoners are admitted at the hospital, the dangers of war suddenly feel

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Book SynopsisTogether they triumphed, but what does the future hold? 1950, the East End of London.With the war finally behind them, the Ten Bells Street girls are building new lives. Best friends from childhood, the three of them are there for each other through thick and thin, but the struggle isn''t over yet...Of the three best friends, Becky is the only one to remain in the East End. Even though the war is over, she still finds great purpose in her work as a nurse - despite her father''s longing for her to settle down and find a husband to support her.Now happily married, Rose has escaped the troubles of the city and lives with her husband and son in Essex, slowly building a happier life than the one she has previously known.And adventurous Bernie has travelled to Israel to join her long-term lover and continue her work as a photographer.But despite their separation, the girls

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Book SynopsisAfter fleeing her divided Dutch homeland, Jannekyn van der Hest comes to Colchester, Essex, looking to make a new life for herself. Though she seeks comfort and community, she finds herself at the mercy of her cruel uncle, who condemns her to a demeaning life as a kitchen maid.As she struggles to regain her independence and make a life for herself in the cloth trade, Jannekyn will need all the courage and resourcefulness she possesses - especially when she falls in love with an Englishman, whose arrival turns Jannekyn''s world upside down.Will this burgeoning romance reverse Jannekyn''s fortunes, or will she never quite be able to escape her past?

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Book SynopsisWhen Edward Price-Carpenter arrives in Wyford, Essex, he immediately catches Cassie Jordan''s eye. Handsome and persuasive, the young man has come to oversee work on his father''s racing yacht, and takes lodgings in the Falcon Inn where Cassie lives with her family.As romance blossoms between them, Cassie finds herself torn between the man she loves and Luke Turnbull, a childhood friend whom she is destined to marry. Though she raises a family with Luke and lives an outwardly happy life, inside Cassie is tormented by thoughts of her lost love Edward and longs for a way to be reunited with him.When tragedy strikes, will Cassie finally learn where her true affections lie?

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Book Synopsis'Extraordinary...Rich in irony and regret...[the] people and settings are vividly realized and his prose [is] compelling in its simplicity.'THE WALL STREET JOURNALAs the world slips into the throes of war in 1939, young Maciek's once closetted existence outside Warsaw is no more. When Warsaw falls, Maciek escapes with his aunt Tania. Together they endure the war, running, hiding, changing their names, forging documents to secure their temporary lives—as the insistent drum of the Nazi march moves ever closer to them and to their secret wartime lies.

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Book Synopsis#1 New York Times Bestseller“Absorbing . . . impossible to resist.” —The Washington PostAs Europe erupts, can one young spy protect his queen? Ken Follett takes us deep into the treacherous world of powerful monarchs, intrigue, murder, and treason with his magnificent epic, A Column of Fire—the chronological latest in the Kingsbridge series, following The Pillars of the Earth, World Without End, and the prequel, The Evening and the Morning.In 1558, the ancient stones of Kingsbridge Cathedral look down on a city torn apart by religious conflict. As power in England shifts precariously between Catholics and Protestants, royalty and commoners clash, testing friendship, loyalty, and love.    Ned Willard wants nothing more than to marry Margery Fitzgerald. But when the lovers find themselves on opposing sides of the religious conflict dividing the country, Ned goes to work for Princess Elizabeth. When she becomes queen, all Europe turns against England. The shrewd, determined young monarch sets up the country’s first secret service to give her early warning of assassination plots, rebellions, and invasion plans. Over a turbulent half century, the love between Ned and Margery seems doomed as extremism sparks violence from Edinburgh to Geneva. Elizabeth clings to her throne and her principles, protected by a small, dedicated group of resourceful spies and courageous secret agents.   The real enemies, then as now, are not the rival religions. The true battle pitches those who believe in tolerance and compromise against the tyrants who would impose their ideas on everyone else—no matter what the cost.  Exciting and ambitious, and set during one of the most turbulent and revolutionary times in history, A Column of Fire will delight longtime fans of the Kingsbridge series and serve as the perfect introduction for readers new to Ken Follett.

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Book SynopsisWinner of the National Book Award“Nothing in contemporary fiction matches it.” —The New Republic“Wonderful . . . full of energy and art, at once funny and horrifying and heartbreaking.” —Washington Post Powerful and political, with unforgettable characters and timeless themes, The World According to Garp is John Irving’s breakout novel. The precursor of Irving’s later protest novels, it is the story of Jenny, an unmarried nurse who becomes a single mom and a feminist leader, beloved but polarizing—and of her son, Garp, less beloved but no less polarizing.   From the tragicomic tone of its first sentence to its mordantly funny last line—“we are all terminal cases”—The World According to Garp maintains a breakneck pace. The subject of sexual hatred and violence—of intolerance of sexual minorities,

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Book SynopsisThere's bound to be trouble in Paradise . . .Trade ReviewI loved every moment. Uniquely Australian, Paradise City was simply brilliant. C. J is a born storyteller that breathes a realism into her characters and situations that we've all found ourselves in. * Diva Book nerd *Duggan's writing is addictive, and I really didn't want to put this book down. * Escape Into Words *... really held my attention and I look forward to reading the next part * Livres Recommende *... I laughed, I got mad and my heart ached * Obsession with Books *Review * Sam's Book Reviews *Paradise City is going to be on my mind until I can get my greedy eyes on Paradise Road. I need that book yesterday! * The Book Catpin *... this story hooked me. * Twin Spin *I loved this book - it's the perfect beach read * Flying Through Pages *a fast paced read with so many steamy situations * Dreamy Addictions Blog *can't wait to read the next book * Ms Leif's Two Fangs About It *guaranteed her readers will come back for more * My Guilty Obsession *Duggan's writing is beautiful; fresh, humorous, full of heartache and yet full of hope ... I am internally chucking a full blown teenage tantrum that I have to wait until September to find out what happens next in the world of Lexie. Five Stars. * Do You Dare To Take a Look Into My Mind? *Paradise City is the same brand of feel good, fun and sexy romance that I have come to love from this author. * Book Briefs Blog *Another fantastic book from C.J. Duggan! * Lost in Literature *quality that means you can never just stop reading... I just had to finish it once I started. * Paein and Ms4Tune *convincing and authentic ... Perfect for fans of Abbi Glines and Anna Todd, Paradise City is a fun and exciting read about love, family and surviving high school * Fictional Thoughts *Review * Gemmareadstoomuch.co.uk *a great first book of the Paradise series * Sassy Mum Book Blog *A great new adult book and a great start to a new series! * Bewitchedbooks.co.uk *Review * Rottitude *It is a fun read with lots of teenage angst, misunderstandings and turmoil * Splashes Into Books *Again Ms Duggan had created a winner. Paradise City was a perfect introduction to the series and characters. I was left needing more and it had so much laugh-out-loud fun. This really did have everything from intrigue to addiction, realism of high school antics, steamy sizzles and fast paced readability. I am certainly hooked and desperately want more of all these characters. I highly recommend this to all new adult readers, fan-bloody-tastic! * Turner's Antics *Paradise City hooked me, * Bookish Things & More *Paradise City left me gasping for more. * The Book Geek 13 *Paradise City is the same brand of feel good, fun and sexy romance that I have come to love from this author * Book Briefs *a really promising start to a new series * Afternoon Reads *If you're looking for your next book boyfriend, look no further my friends. Ballantine will make you swoon all over the place. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a cute coming of age book that will make you chuckle and grin. * Chapter by Chapter *This is my first taste of Duggan's work and it won't be the last...It's a story that will have you coming back for more. * Sassy Book Lovers *This is what a teenage romance or a teenage story should be like: with its ups and downs, always keeping the reader invested in the story and enjoying the characters. * The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club *This series mixes bad boys and beaches - perfect for readers who love a local flavour to their romance reading. * Australian Bookseller & Publisher *Included in 'Great Mother's Day Picks' * Riverine Herald *CJ Duggan writes with such passion, creating such a beautiful sense of imagery, I could smell the salt air, feel the sun beat down on my face, I was easily lost in Paradise City -- Kristine Barakat * GlassPaperInk book blog *I can't wait to see where Duggan goes with the story next! * FeedYour FictionAddiction blog *Each chapter is a revelation into the experiences of youth. * little read riding hood blog *I will be waiting anxiously for Lexie and Luke and their steamy hot, first love romance on August 28th in Paradise Road. I highly recommend Lexie and hottie Luke and their Paradise City romance as a must read. * I Heart YA Books blog *Paradise City is the same sort of feel good, sexy romance that we've come to know from C.J. and her other books. * SleepsOnTables blog *Duggan doesn't disappoint with adding another swoon-worthy book under her belt. * Rolling with the moments blog *Paradise city gripped me from the beginning, the storyline flowed well and was easy to relate too. A book about adjusting to adulthood, self-discovery and first love!! * This Girl Loves Books blog *It has everything a book written by her always has: sexy boys, a place where everyone would like to live or spend the summer, romance and a moving story. * The Unofficial Addiction Book Fan Club blog *C.J. Duggan is an author on my watchlist now * genie in a book blog *Duggan is a good writer * taking it one page at a time blog *What should be your number one reason for reading Paradise city by C.J. Duggan? Luke. Ballantine. A sexy, bad boy surfer who does bad in such a sexy way. * chapter by chapter blog *I wasn't expecting a cliffhanger. What?! The wait for the next book will be impossible. * What's Beyond Forks blog *review * Bitten by Romance blog *review * Phishbowl's bookshelf blog *This was a fun read. * A Touch of Book Madness blog *review * lilian's book blog *- * I Am Kayiee blog *I can't wait to see what happens in the next book * Otherworldly Tales blog *

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Book SynopsisGod damn it, Gerry Clancy, couldn''t you have left well enough alone and stayed in Cork?Twenty years ago, Ellen O''Shea left her beloved Ireland to make a new life in Australia. Now a popular local in a small coastal town, but struggling to cope with the death of her much-loved Greek husband, Nick, Ellen finds her world turned upside down when an unexpected visitor lands on her doorstep. The arrival of Gerry Clancy, her first love from Ireland, may just be the catalyst that pulls Ellen out of her pit of grief, but it will also trigger a whole new set of complications for her and those she holds dear.Home is where the heart is - but where exactly is home? Can Ellen and Gerry''s rekindled romance withstand the passage of time, family, young adult children with their own lives, and the shock disclosure of a long-held secret that will put all their closest relationships at risk?Set in Ireland, Greece and small-town coaTrade Reviewa heart-warming positive tale about that journey everyone takes to find their own beloved place in the wide wide world. - Better Readinga warm-hearted, poignant story about treasuring memories and celebrating new beginnings - Eastern Courier MessengerLeaving Ocean Road crosses cultures and times, it is a beautiful and poignant story and a reminder to have a tissue handy. - Port Lincoln TimesLeaving Ocean Road is a warm-hearted, poignant story about treasuring our memories while celebrating our new beginnings - Country News insert

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Book SynopsisFrom coastal Australia to Santorini and Ireland, a slice of warm, character-driven fiction in the tradition of Maeve Binchy and Monica McInerneyTwenty years ago, Ellen O''Shea left her beloved Ireland to make a new life in Australia. Now, living in a small coastal town and struggling to cope with the death of her much-loved Greek husband, Nick, Ellen finds her world turned upside down when an unexpected visitor lands on her doorstep. The arrival of Gerry Clancy, her first love from Ireland, may just be the catalyst that pulls Ellen out of her pit of grief, but it will also trigger a whole new set of complications for her and those she holds dear.Set in Ireland, Greece and small-town coastal Australia, LEAVING OCEAN ROAD is a warm-hearted, poignant story about treasuring our memories while celebrating our new beginnings.''LEAVING OCEAN ROAD is warm, wise and full of humour. Esther Campion is a wonTrade ReviewA heart-warming positive tale about that journey everyone takes to find their own beloved place in the wide wide world - Better ReadingA warm-hearted, poignant story about treasuring memories and celebrating new beginnings - Eastern Courier MessengerLeaving Ocean Road crosses cultures and times, it is a beautiful and poignant story and a reminder to have a tissue handy. - Port Lincoln Times

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Book SynopsisBehind the grimy wharves of Londons dockland lies Conner Street, home to a close-knit community where women stand gossiping in doorways, small boys play marbles on the cobbles and the dockers pop down to the Eagle for a quick pint. Corner shops nestle beside the tiny terraced houses and two minutes away is the lively Tower Road market, where it is said, if you can''t buy something then it''s not made. Once World War Two breaks out, however, life in Conner Street changes dramatically - for ever...

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Book SynopsisWhen Elsa Gripper dies in childbirth on Christmas Eve, 1912, her grief-stricken husband is unable to cope with his two newborn babies, Lucy and Patsy, so the twins are separated. Lucy is taken home with Elsa''s parents, who run a successful business, Mersey Antiques, and she grows up spoiled and pampered with no interest in the family firm. Patsy has a more down-to-earth upbringing, living with their father and other grandmother above the Railway Arms. And through further tragedy she learns to be responsible from an early age. Then Patsy is invited to work for her grandfather at Mersey Antiques, which she hopes will bring her closer to Lucy. But it is to take a series of dramatic events for the twins to be drawn together.

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Book SynopsisDecades of hard work have made Austin Broderick a rich man. His sheep station, Springfield, is one of the largest in Australia and the good relations between the native Aborigines and the Brodericks have made it one of the most peaceful. But with the arrival of the pious Reverend Billings all that looks set to change. Under the guise of friendship he enters the Aborigines'' camp and leaves with three six-year-old boys - eager for adventure but destined for misery.Meanwhile, Austin is facing the threat of the Selection Act - a bill which, if passed, will mean the loss of a large proportion of his land. His only hope is his son Harry and his influence as a Brisbane politician. But as the months go by it soon becomes clear that the family''s problems run far deeper than any of them had imagined and the answers lie in the last place they would think to look...

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Book SynopsisCornwall: 1791. As the civil unrest in France gathers force, ripples of conflict are also reaching across the Channel, for the Loveday family are fighting their own private battles. Charles Mercer - Edward Loveday''s brother-in-law - has been found dead, the reputation of his eminent bank in tatters. Charles has left the Lovedays facing emotional trauma and financial ruin. But risk comes as second nature to the Lovedays. Adam Loveday finds refuge from the pressures of keeping the family boatyard solvent in the arms of gypsy-bred Senara - whom he is determined to marry despite his father''s threats of disinheritance. And his twin, St John, angry at having to curb his spending, throws in his hand with the Sawle brothers - the notorious smugglers who rule Penruan by intimidation and violence. Each one of the Lovedays must sacrifice personal ambition in the face of adversity. But to some of them, sacrifice does not come easily...Trade Review'Thrilling family saga... A fast-moving and exciting read and leaves the reader breathless for the next book in the series' Historical Novels ReviewA fast-moving and exciting read and leaves the reader breathless for the next book in the series' * HISTORICAL NOVELS REVIEW *PRAISE FOR ADAM LOVEDAY:'The whole spectrum of society is present in this fast-moving and exciting story' Historical Novels Review'First-class' West Briton'Fans of costume dramas and 18/19th century literature will enjoy ADAM LOVEDAY, a story of warring brothers and forbidden love' Chester Evening Leader'Rich in drama and passion, with the atmosphere and flavour of eighteenth century Cornwall, ADAM LOVEDAY...is a story of family relationships that transcends time, and heralds the emergence of an exciting new storyteller' North Cornwall Advertiser

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Book SynopsisIt is 1941 and Connie and Lottie Brinsley are training to be nurses at Liverpool''s Walton Hospital. When heavy bombing is followed by the news that their home has taken a direct hit and their parents and little brother are dead, the two sisters are utterly devastated. Later, they are shocked to discover that their uncle, Steve, is not who they thought he was, and the Brinsleys have been living a lie for years. And Steve''s not the only one who''s hiding the truth, for when Lottie meets and marries Waldo Padley, no one tells her that he''s a liar and a cheat. But, no matter what life throws at them, the sisters find the strength to face the troubles ahead...Trade ReviewPraise for Anne Baker's previous Merseyside sagas: 'A stirring tale of romance and passion, poverty and ambition * Liverpool Echo *A compelling book that you just don't want to put down * Southport Visiter *A gentle tale with all the right ingredients for a heartwarming novel * Huddersfield Daily Examiner *Another nostalgic story oozing with atmosphere and charm * Liverpool Echo *

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Book SynopsisWhen Ruby''s father returns, shell-shocked, from the front lines of the Great War, the young girl realises that things will never be the same again. Forced to leave school and help her mother wash clothes, Ruby closes the door on her childhood. When she takes a job at the local laundry, Ruby enjoys the friendship of the other women there, but there''s also bitchiness and jealousy amongst the workers. At home there''s growing tension with the live-in landlord as Ruby grows into an attractive woman, but not the kind who''s willing to use her charms to win favours. Ruby''s heart belongs to one man only, a local boy she''s known all her life, but there are many battles to be fought before they start a life together...

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Book SynopsisAmidst the turmoil and disruption of 1950s Notting Hill, young mother Daisy Rivers has created a small pocket of tranquility in the bedsit she shares with her two daughters. Her life is by no means perfect but it is a far cry from the lonely years she spent in an orphanage as a child. Meanwhile in the plush surroundings of the Cliff Head Hotel in Torquay, June, the sister Daisy hasn''t seen since they were separated by adoption, is close to despair. A life of wealth and privilege and a happy marriage aren''t enough to erase the legacies of her past and a terrible secret, ignored for too long, forces her to seek out the sister she hasn''t seen in almost twenty years...Trade ReviewPraise for Pamela Evans's previous sagas: 'A good traditional romance, and its author has a feeling for the atmosphere of postwar London * Sunday Express *Very readable * Bella *The leading characters are finely drawn...crisp prose...a superb and heartwarming read * Irish Independent *A compelling book * Woman's Realm *Well peopled with warm personalities * Liverpool Post *There's a special kind of warmth that shines through the characters in Evans' novels... An uplifting love story with all the right ingredients * Lancashire Evening Post *This book touched me very, very much. It's lovely * North Wales Chronicle *

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Book SynopsisFrancine Champion loves her life working as a mechanic at her uncle''s Leicester garage. But when Eddie Taylor starts seeing her best friend, Stella, Frankie can''t help feeling uneasy. Eddie''s certainly charming, but Frankie can see he''s a bad lot. She''s shocked, then, when she finds out it''s she, Frankie, that Eddie wants. Within days he''s broken up her relationship with her steady boyfriend, ruined her friendship with Stella and started pursuing her so relentlessly that before she knows it, Frankie has agreed to marry Eddie. After a year the marriage is going well and Frankie can''t think why she had doubts about her husband. But she should have trusted her first instincts, because Eddie is far more dangerous than she ever imagined...Trade Review'Heartwarming Leicester-based '50s saga of working folk and their passions. She's good' Bookseller * the Bookseller *'It's a story to grip you from the first page to the last' Coventry Evening Telegraph * Coventry Evening Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisFor Kacie Cooper, life in Leicester in 1959 is almost perfect. She is the top stylist in a reputable hair salon, and her husband Dennis is dreaming of the big time with his rock ''n'' roll band. Only one thing mars Kacie''s happiness: her parents'' constant disapproval that she doesn''t have a ''proper'' job or a more respectable husband, like her sister Caroline. But when Caroline turns up on Kacie''s doorstep, asking to stay for a while, the revelation that follows plunges Kacie''s own life into chaos and threatens everything that matters...Trade Review'A welcome read for fans of Cookson and Cox' Express * Express *

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Book SynopsisMore than a decade has gone by since Esther Cunningham, weakened by the consumption which would soon take her life, left her precious daughter in her mother''s care. Now eighteen, Lorna Cunningham is eagerly awaiting the day when she can leave the Newcastle house in which she''s known only heartache. The Arabian ancestry of the father she has never known has meant that she has been nothing more than an unwelcome guest in her grandmother''s home, forced to take second place to her spoilt cousin, Rose, who has wanted for neither love nor material comforts.Lorna takes comfort from her growing friendship with bookseller Edwin Randall, who shares her love of reading and inspires her with his passion to improve the terrible conditions of the Newcastle slums. But their relationship is overshadowed by Lorna''s infatuation with the handsome and charismatic Maurice Haldane - the man Rose is determined she herself will marry and who has the power to change all their lives for ever...Trade Review'Romance, heartache and local history make a magical mixture...passion on every page' Northern Echo * Northern Echo *'An ultimately heartwarming tale. Unlike some sagas, all the main characters here are well drawn and their motivations clearly set down. Elsewhere, the baddies often have totally black hearts, and the goodies are angelic beyond belief, but Brown writes more subtly than that, which makes for a satisfying read' Historical Novels Review * Historical Novels Review *

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Book SynopsisA warm-hearted, tender and funny novel from one of Liverpool's bestselling writersTrade ReviewPraise for Joan Jonker: 'As usual our Joan has come up with a story full of laughter and smiles * Liverpool Echo *Hilarious and touching stories of life in Liverpool * Woman's Realm *

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Book SynopsisOne day in 1964 Rachel West''s husband walked out on his wife and two young sons, leaving them nothing but pain and heartache. Now, two years later, struggling in a poorly paid job, Rachel feels her luck will never change. So when she finds herself the new owner of her late Uncle Chip''s Hammersmith boat-building business she wonders if it''s too good to be true. Why would Chip have left it to her when he has a son himself? The business is only just afloat - thanks to the hard work of Chip''s charismatic assistant, Ben - but Rachel is determined to restore it to its former glory for the sake of her sons. And before long, she realises that she''s falling in love with kind-hearted and handsome Ben. But her good fortune doesn''t last for long - someone is maliciously plotting to sabotage her plans...Trade Review'A compelling book' Woman's Realm'The leading characters are finely drawn...crisp prose...a superb and heartwarming read' Irish Independent'Very readable' Bella'A good traditional romance, and its author has a feeling for the atmosphere of postwar London' Sunday Express'Well peopled with warm personalities' Liverpool Post

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Book SynopsisThe year is 1916 and twenty-year-old Poppy Barlow is clearing the desk of her late father when she comes across a faded photograph of her father with his two sisters - aunts that Poppy never knew she had - along with their address. Poppy contacts her aunts, and is thrilled when they invite her to stay with them in Sheffield. But while Dale House might look grand from the outside, on closer inspection, the place is run-down and crumbling.Poppy determines to change all this and applies for a job at the local scythe works - to the horror of her aunts. As Poppy learns to survive, she is tormented by many unanswered questions. Why had her father rejected Dale House? Why had he never mentioned his sisters or the past? And what could have happened between her aunts and Frederick Kenton, her new boss, that could cause them so much anguish every time his name, or the scythe works, is mentioned?

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Book SynopsisWhen Ginny Appleyard''s childhood sweetheart returns home after his racing season aboard the yacht Aurora, her hopes that he is bringing her an engagement ring are shattered, as Nathan disembarks with Isobel Armitage; the daughter of Aurora''s owner. Instead of the hoped-for proposal, Nathan tells Ginny that he is leaving their home town and following Isobel to London, to pursue his dreams of becoming an artist.Already distraught at the tragic death of her father, Ginny is devastated to hear that Nathan and Isobel are to be married and her heartache is compounded when she discovers that she is expecting Nathan''s child. Forced by her mother to choose between a loveless marriage of convenience to the rough sailor Will Kesgrave, and the more sinister option of being ''put away'', Ginny Appleyard''s future is far from certain . . .

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Book SynopsisA dramatic family saga, filled to the brim with scandal and intrigue

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Book SynopsisAbandoned as a baby, Joanna was brought up by the cruel farmer who found her and put to work on his land as soon as she could walk. Despite such hardship, Jo still keeps her spirits up, strengthened by the knowledge that she was discovered in a luxurious blue velvet cloak - evidence that her true mother must have been a fine lady. When successful factory owner Abraham Silkin decides that she has the potential to make him a good wife, Jo believes that her dreams of living in splendour are finally coming true. But she hasn''t bargained on her forbidden attraction to Abraham''s godson. Nor does she realise that the truth about her family lurks just around the corner - and is getting ready to reveal itself on the most important day of her life . . .

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Book SynopsisWhen Annie''s father is killed after being run over by a bus, Annie decides she can''t let the two children her father took in as lodgers with their mother (now vanished) be taken into care and inevitably separated. Instead, with the help of her Grandmother, Rhonda, who lives nearby, Annie uses what little money her job at the local cafe affords her and her inheritance from her father to raise Ronnie and Mary herself. Annie continues to search for the childrens'' parents but she soons discovers that Ronnie and Mary have different fathers and that Ronnie''s father will not take Mary, only his son. Again the children face separation unless Annie can come up with a solution.With the help of her lodger, Jack, with whom Annie falls in love, Annie begins her battle to adopt the children but various obstacles promise to make her fight a hard one...Trade ReviewMarvellous storytelling from the best * Martina Cole *A natural, with a great sense of place * Beryl Kingston *

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Book SynopsisSacrificeWhen her mother passed away, Meg Parker was forced to sacrifice her chance at love for the sake of her family. She hopes she will be able to live a full life once again after her father remarries - until tragedy strikes a second time. Suddenly, Meg is facing a darker future altogether.StrugglesLady Alice Langton is travelling the Yorkshire Dales, spreading the suffragette message. Florence Brookes, the daughter of a prosperous grocer, accompanies her, impassioned by the cause but seeking distraction from her own troubles. Appalled by their lack of domestic skills, Meg decides to flee her old life and joins the two women as their maidservant as they make their way to London.StrengthWhen Meg is reunited with her old flame, she is hesitant about her feelings for him - not least because of the rift this causes between her and Lady Alice. It''s not until Florence''s actions land them in jeopardy that Meg realises she must find theTrade ReviewHard-hitting and powerful . . . Catherine King has written a first-rate novel * Maureen Lee, author of After the War is Over *Gritty and realistic . . . A very satisfying read * Anne Bennett, author of If You Were the Only Girl *Compelling . . . An enlightening insight on the Women's Suffrage Movement * Discover Your History *A powerful and page-turning saga * Dee Williams, author of Sunshine After Rain *She writes with authority, skill and confidence * Elizabeth Gill, author of The Secret *

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Book SynopsisLinked through marriage to three brothers, the Underwood women prove time and again that they are a force to be reckoned with.Jodie has travelled a hard road to reach her own prosperity, despite her husband''s constant unreliability. Yet she can''t bring herself to fully sever ties with John. But now with a potential new love waiting nearby, Jodie must make a decision she has been avoiding for too long.Widowed at a young age, Lariane believes her marriage to Rick was perfect. He also left behind twin daughters, but is Lariane sacrificing their future happiness by looking for perfection? Will another man ever be good enough to fill Rick''s shoes?Dee has everything she ever wanted: a husband she adores and a beautiful little girl. But she knows that her family''s happiness is founded on half-truths. How long before she must come clean with those she holds most dear?Heartfelt and captivating, Three Brave Women is a story of loyalty, family and

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Book SynopsisFlame-haired beauty Chloe Collard watched her mother struggle through life, scraping together pennies in order to provide for her and her brothers, so Chloe promised herself something a long time ago: she would get a proper education and make something of herself. This vow would carry Chloe through her entire life.When Chloe is offered a job as a personal assistant in a prestigious firm, she finally feels that her hard work is paying off. And with romance knocking at her door, a happy and fulfilled life is just around the corner. But all is not as it seems and the decisions Chloe has to make may not be as straightforward as they first appear . . . From the East End of London to Brighton, this rags-to-riches romance is a story of how a little hope and a lot of determination will see you through the toughest of times. It''s the perfect read for fans of Maureen Lee, Annie Murray and Pam Weaver.Trade ReviewIf you like your heroines pure, beautiful and universally beloved . . . and sentiment rather than emotion, look no further * Historical Novels Review *Full of warmth and domestic detail * Keighley News *

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Book SynopsisThe BRAND NEW wartime saga from the much-loved author of THE TILBURY POPPIES. Perfect for fans of Annie Murray and Donna DouglasWill she sacrifice her dreams to care for her family?Essex, 1959.Keep the family together, that''s what her old mum always said. Put up and shut up. And that''s what everyone else did around there.Flo earns her money as a scrubber, cleaning the cruise ships and dreaming of a day when she might sail away from her life in the Dwellings, the squalid tenements of Tilbury docks. Then the Blundell family are evicted from their home.Fred, Flo''s husband, finds work at Monday''s, a utopian factory town. Suddenly, it seems like everything is on the up for Flo Blundell and her children. Even Jeanie, Flo''s sulking teenage daughter, seems to be thawing a little in her shiny new surroundings. But when Fred starts drinking again, he jeopardises the familyTrade ReviewPacked with drama, dark humour and shocking truths about life for working class women nearly 60 years ago, When My Ship Comes In is a compelling first novel, a gritty page-turner... Wilsher has produced a remarkable debut, a gritty, rollercoaster story of love and loss, hardship and hope, family and friendship and an eye-opening reality check for a new generation of women for whom such limited options in life are now, in the main, just a part of history. Her evocation of a past era, with its struggles and stresses, and her charismatic cast of assorted characters - from lovable Flo to her more complex daughter Jeanie - are beautifully portrayed and make this a must-read for all women's fiction fans, and for book clubs and discussion groups everywhere. -- Pam Norfolk * Lancashire Evening Post *

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Book SynopsisFor sixteen-year-old Lizzie McDougall, life in the Glasgow tenements comes as a culture shock after her sheltered upbringing in the Highlands. But for her father, who has just lost his job in the tiny town of Tomintoul, Glasgow offers employment. Her new life enables Lizzie to work in a factory as a seamstress - and it opens her horizons to new friends as well. Especially the spirited Pearl, who introduces Lizzie to her boyfriend Willie, and her cousin, the handsome, happy-go-lucky Jack - a real bobby-dazzler . . . It''s not just Lizzie who faces temptation in the big city. Her father Doogie, also working in a factory, is exposed to it in the shape of the buxom Daisy. He moved here for the sake of his family''s future, but now he''s in danger of throwing that future away. Praise for Emma Blair:''An engaging novel and the characters are endearing - a good holiday read'' Historical Novels Review''All the tragedy and passion you cou

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Book Synopsis THE FEEL GOOD NOVEL OF THE YEAR''I loved this funny, heartwarming read'' Libby Page, author of The Lido The Patron Saint of Plumbing is not answering Nino Speranza''s prayers.Without the thousands of euros in taxes that he could never bring himself to collect from his neighbours, the water board will cut the town off. All 212 inhabitants will be forced to leave.So, in a desperate bid to save his hometown, he starts a rumour that major movie star Dante Rinaldi is filming his next movie in the village. Soon, all the locals want to be involved: Speranza''s assistant has written a screenplay and the local butcher will invest - each of his fifteen enormous sons is given a role. It seems the only way to save the town is to actually make the movie. And Nino Speranza starts to think he might have created the second chance they all needed . . . until word of the production reaches Dante Rinaldi himself. Funny, chaTrade ReviewThe Patron Saint of Second Chances is a rare treasure: both hilariously funny and beautifully written. I was sad to say goodbye to these delightful, large-hearted characters when I turned the final page. Sequel, please. -- Julia Claiborne Johnson, author of Better Luck Next Time and Be Frank With MeA glorious romp of a book with a cast of characters to fall in love with. Gorgeous, hilarious and brimming with joy. Christine Simon's writing is just a delight. -- Helen Paris, author of Lost Property'The Patron Saint of Second Chances is the most charming, original and hilarious novel I have read in ages. I laughed out loud on almost every page. Simon is the master of creating lovable, quirky and relatable characters that feel like your best friends. All I want for Christmas is to meet Signor Speranza and have my vacuum cleaner repaired at his shop. And I'm desperate to be in the movie, with or without Dante Rinaldi. This novel is something special. Everyone with a sense of humor must pick this up immediately.' -- Elyssa Friedland, author of Last Summer at The Golden Hotel[A] sparkling, hilarious debut... Simon's wit pervades every page, with colorful portrayals of Speranza and the town's quirky inhabitants. This triumphant farce is a gem. * Publishers Weekly (starred review) *Full of slapstick humor (including a rescue from a wild goat) and a large cast of quirky characters, Simon's debut is brimming with heart... Fans of Fredrik Backman, Phaedra Patrick, and other chroniclers of small-town humour will savour this. * Booklist (starred review) *

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