Manchester, 1920. As a mannequin in an exclusive fashion salon, Kate Hunter lives for the moments she can step into a beautiful gown and leave her worries behind.

But when Kate is cheated out of her home and then suffers a terrible accident, she suddenly loses everything: her job, her independence and her future.

Miss Hawes, the well-to-do owner of Calico House, provides her with a chance beyond her wildest dreams. Could Kate use her eye for fashion to secure her future?

Meanwhile, ambitious young furniture dealer Finn Mercer is determined to expand his business – he and Kate could be a wonderful partnership. Maybe even more than that…

However, Miss Hawes’s aggrieved godson will not just stand by and let them triumph.

Can Kate, along with friends old and new, fight for the happiness – and love – she dreams of?

A richly evocative, uplifting saga of courage, resilience and romance, perfect for fans of Fiona Ford, Rachel Brimble and Lesley Eames.

Praise for Maisie Thomas:

'Brimming with warmth, courage and charm. The fabulous Maisie Thomas has woven a rich, emotional story of friendship and fresh starts and I can't wait for the next instalment.' Kirsty Dougal, author of The Poppy Girls

'A wonderful and uplifting tale' Eva Glyn, author of The Dubrovnik Book Club

'In this heartwarming saga, Maisie Thomas depicts the strength and resourcefulness of ordinary women in wartime, and evokes the world of early 1940s Manchester with affection and skill.' Rose Warner, author of The Teacher Evacuees

'Make yourself a cuppa and find a comfy spot on the sofa because you are not going to be able to put this down' Reader Review

''Dramatic, intriguing and sprinkled with plenty of wit and heart' Reader Review