For fans of Catherine Cookson comes Eileen Ramsay's tale of heartbreak, hope and family - the perfect read to curl up with this Christmas.

'He saw the intelligence in her eyes and the beauty and strength of character in her face . . . '

Since the death of her mother, Kate Kennedy has been parent, helper and house keeper to her large family. But life changes drastically as the young men leave the pits and head to the Great War.

Desolate to watch brothers and friends march into danger, Kate must stay at home to hold her family together.

Against all odds, Kate's baking skills create a path out of poverty. But as storm clouds gather over Europe again, the love, life and happiness she's fought so hard for may not survive - will she lose everything?

Set against the powerful backdrop of two world wars, canny heroine Kate sets her shoulder against a tidal wave of change and struggles to protect those she loves . . .

What you're saying about A Pinch of Salt:

'Absorbing story . . . Very realistic and very hard to put down'

'Extremely good read'

'Riveting story . . . highly recommend'

'A great holiday read'