From the New York Times bestselling author of Black Cake comes a stunningly beautiful tale about love, family and seeking a new life in the aftermath of tragedy
Ebby Freeman’s life has always been marked with tragedy. First, the death of her brother Baz, killed in an anonymous armed robbery when they were teenagers. Then her perfect fiance Henry deserting her on the day of their wedding, without an explanation.
When Ebby arrives in a sleepy French village, she believes she’s found an opportunity for healing and anonymity. Until Henry appears, staying at the neighbouring property with his beautiful new girlfriend in tow.
It’s the worst situation that Ebby can imagine. But might it give her a chance to piece together the fragments of her past – and finally embrace her future?
Review: A thoroughly researched and beautifully imagined family saga, with a moving and hopeful ending * New York TImes *
Wilkerson expertly tackles grief , trauma and the drive to live as you wish , in spite of your family’s expectations and your community’s barely concealed racism * Daily Express *
A remarkable exploration of family bonds, grief, heartbreak, friendship, and the deep scars of slavery and racism… Wilkerson’s prose is succinct yet richly evocative, masterfully delving into the minds and motivations of her characters and delivering a narrative that lingers long after the final page… This novel solidifies Wilkerson’s place as one of the great multi-generational storytellers of our time. — Abi Dare, bestselling author of The Girl with the Louding Voice
What a beautiful and masterfully crafted story. I’m in utter awe of Charmaine. I found Ebby’s story just heartbreaking, but ultimately it left me thinking deeply about the process of healing from unspeakable pain and building the muscle of resilience… Charmaine is the real deal – she has SUCH a talent for every aspect of storytelling. I fell in love with her characters; I was gripped by her plot; I adore her words. — Harriet Constable, author of The Instrumentalist
There are chapters that push your tear ducts to the limits * Scotsman *
Format: Paperback
Pages: 368
Imprint: Michael Joseph UK
Publication date: 11/02/2025
