London, 1918: the world is being torn apart by war, but for the girls of London’s Foyles bookshop, where there is friendship, there is hope… Perfect for fans of Rosie Clarke and Elaine Everest.

Ellen Beckford and her sister Mary are living under their father’s shadow. Before their beloved mother died, they had dreamed of bright futures, but torn apart by grief, Harold Beckford barely lets his daughters out of his sight. Then Harold is injured during a break-in at his office at London’s docklands, and can no longer work. And with prices rising and food scarce, Ellen has no choice but to defy her father’s rules and seek employment. She finds a position at London’s renowned Foyles bookshop, and the other shop girls quickly take her under their wing.

But there are dark times ahead. Ellen’s father is accused of gathering intelligence from the docklands for the enemy, and the police seem determined to see him shot for spying. With the help of her new friends, can Ellen clear her father’s name and save her family from destitution?

Praise for Elaine Roberts:

'A delightful story of friendship, love and hope during the dark days of WW1' Elaine Everest

'It’s great to be back at Foyles Bookshop in London during WW1. The shop girls stories have been told before so this time it’s the turn of the Beckford family. Ellen the eldest daughter has to take on more responsibilities as her Father is accused of spying. Lots of great characters as well as those you love to hate' Netgalley reviewer

'A book about working in a bookshop just what I love. This is another wonderful family saga in this series. A quick read but, very enjoyable' Netgalley reviewer

'Kept me enthralled from start to finish' Netgalley reviewer

'Offers a heart-wrenching insight into how hard life was for the women left at home and how emotions ran high as war continued. A highly recommended read that will pull at your heartstrings' Netgalley reviewer

'Was immediately drawn in to this story' Netgalley reviewer

'A real heart-warming read. Great story and characters, would love a sequel' Netgalley reviewer

'A strong start to what looks to be a trilogy of books about these women and I cannot wait to go back and see how they are all faring' Netgalley reviewer

'Skilfully crafted characters and an exquisite storyline all kept my attention from the first page to the last' Netgalley reviewer

'If you're looking for something to make you cry over your tea and warm your heart on a wintery morning, then this is a book you'll want to reach for' Netgalley reviewer

'The author did an outstanding job of finding a niche in the saga genre' Netgalley reviewer

'A richly drawn character study of different women coming of age during a time of much social and political upheaval' Netgalley reviewer

'Poignant ... A brilliant start to a series. I can certainly recommend this to any reader who enjoys this genre' Netgalley reviewer

'A phenomenal read ... A fantastic debut ... Rich in atmosphere and period detail and full of wonderful characters readers simply cannot help but care about!' Netgalley reviewer

'A lovely, original story ... The historical details create a lush setting ... If there will be a sequel, I look forward to it!' Netgalley reviewer

'The perfect book for book lovers who love to read about bookstores, those who love historical fiction set in WWI and those who enjoy stories of strong female friendships' Netgalley reviewer