Literature & Fiction

Twins born into misfortune: A tale of survival amid the Victorian shadows.

1880s Manchester

In the shadow of poverty, sisters Grace and Agnes struggle to cope with their father’s sudden death. Soon, the joy of a fleeting romance with a visiting sailor brings innocent Grace more than she bargained for.

With the birth of twins, Grace’s struggles amplify as her health crumbles. Angered by her sister’s folly, a resentful Agnes sees an opportunity for escape, plotting to use the twins and the lovestruck sailor as stepping stones. Alas, her selfish plan is threatened when one twin mysteriously vanishes in a bustling market square.

What becomes of the missing child in this treacherous web of deceit? Can the sailor decipher Agnes’s self-serving lies before it’s too late? Amidst mounting dangers, can Grace shield her children from peril and allow love to return to her life?

Escape into this heartrending Victorian saga of love tested, innocence betrayed, and a mother’s desperate fight against all odds. This engrossing tale of love, grit, and determination is a must-read for fans of evocative historical dramas and poignant, strong women’s saga romance. Don’t miss this tale that will tug at your heartstrings and keep you on the edge of your seat.

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Praise for the author:

“Emma’s ability to evoke raw emotions and weave a compelling narrative of Victorian Britain makes this women’s historical saga an absolute must-read for fans of heartfelt tales of survival and resilience.” – Mary P, US

“Hardwick is a true gem in the world of historical fiction. Her vivid descriptions and richly drawn characters transport me to the heart of Angel Meadow, captivating from the first page.” – Beryl F, UK

“Emma’s beautiful Victorian romance novels capture the essence of the era, making me feel as if I’m living alongside the characters. Utterly gripping. Her depictions of gritty stories about strong women are unmatched.” – Elsie J, UK

“Hardwick’s storytelling prowess makes this a truly unforgettable read. A must-read for fans of women’s historical saga fiction that explores the strength of the human spirit.” – Elizabeth M, UK

“If you love the Victorian romance of Catherine Cookson, Downton, Mimi Matthews, or Eliza Heaton, you’ll love this captivating tale of struggle and resilience. Emma’s skill in crafting narratives that resonate long after the last page is a testament to her talent. Well done, Emma!” – Patricia S, US

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In the oppressive shadow of the cotton mill, the Hopewell family’s spirit is nearly crushed. The grind of machinery and relentless hours weigh heavily on young Gwen and her sister, Roberta. The loss of their father to the mill’s clutches and their mother’s ruined legs are constant reminders of the high cost of survival. But when a tragedy befalls Teddy, their youngest, the family’s already fragile foundation shatters and a heart-wrenching decision by their mother propels them towards an even grimmer fate, the unforgiving doors of the workhouse loom large.

There, separated from their ailing mother, Gwen and Roberta cling to each other. It’s within these walls they meet Nick, a kind-hearted soul who seeks to help them and soon a sweet love begins to blossom. But behind the workhouse walls, treachery is rife and Gwen’s attempts to protect her sister come at a shocking price and Gwen, Nick and Roberta are cast to the streets.

Now the trio must brave the dangerous streets and alleyways, doing whatever they can to survive, but when Nick’s brave attempt to avoid arrest ends in a plunge into the dark waters, and Roberta vanishes, leaving behind only a haunting smear of blood, Gwen is heartbroken fearing them dead. Now Gwen must grapple with heartbreak once more and find her way in the unforgiving life of the London alleyways.

“In a world where loyalties are tested and bonds are shattered, will Gwen find the strength to move forward? Can she uncover the fate of her loved ones and rebuild the fragments of their broken family? Embark on a poignant journey of resilience, love, and one family’s battle against insurmountable odds.

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When Fiona McVey learns her father’s secret, she is astonished. Donal McVey has been playing the role of Father Christmas to the impoverished children of Old Town and Fiona’s eyes are opened to the despairing poverty that clings to the cobblestone streets.

Alistair, an orphaned street child, has long since adapted to the harsh realities of life, Transforming into a savvy thief, skilful and elusive, he’s built a life of shadows, constantly evading the clutches of the law. However, fate intervenes when he uncovers a nefarious plan to rob the workshop that makes Christmas magic for Old Town’s neediest. Lying in wait, Alistair becomes an unexpected saviour, rescuing Fiona from the clutches of a menacing gang.

Years later, their paths cross again, and the electric connection between them leaves an imprint on her heart. But when Alistair makes a choice that horrifies Fiona, her intervention triggers a catastrophic event that leaves her family shattered and her world in tatters. With no option but to tread the perilous streets of Old Town under a new identity, she dresses as a man, her path rife with danger and now in direct opposition to Alistair.

As Christmas approaches, and snowflakes blur the lines between right and wrong, Fiona must make a choice. Can Fiona and Alistair find the miracle that eludes them, or will the weight of their decisions extinguish all hope for a love?

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How do you fall in love with someone who can’t remember you from one day until the next?

‘Absolutely hilarious, engaging and fun’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader review

Newly single lawyer Gwen Baker needs a family Christmas to bury her woes, with festive films, country walks and a mountain of chocolate.

Her teenage crush Dev is back in their small village as well – and it turns out he’s just as kind, funny and good-looking as she remembers.

But then Gwen wakes up to discover it’s Christmas all over again. She’s trapped in a snowy Groundhog Day. But would repeat meet-cutes with Dev really be so bad for a heart that needs mending?

READERS LOVE LINDSEY KELK:

‘A festive romance with a twist . . . with plenty of funny moments and a whole load of emotion’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘The perfect antidote to these dark evenings, full of warmth, humour, deep insights and feel-good prose’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘If you read one Christmas book this year . . . let it be this one!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Everything you want for a Christmas read’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘Warm-hearted, funny and so enjoyable’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

’Romantic, festive fun and as irresistible as a tub of Quality Street’ Red

‘With laugh-out-loud moments, it’s another classic Kelk novel’ Woman and Home

Lindsey Kelk has hit the sweet spot with a festive romcom that’s Groundhog Day meets The Family Stone’ Stylist

’Fun and festive . . a witty, feelgood read’ Popsugar

‘Heartwarming and funny’ Heat

‘This brilliant, hilarious read is escapist fun’ Fabulous

‘With genuine laugh-out-loud moments, it’s another Kelk novel that will put a big smile on your face’ Woman’s Weekly

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You are cordially invited to your Happy Ever After…

Emma Love is a matchmaker who believes in old fashioned courtship, over swiping left or right. She’s inspired by Jane Austen, Bridgerton and a thousand and one perfect romance stories, where matches were made at elegant soirees and not by sliding into your intended’s DMs.

This year, Emma is inviting you to a very special social season, where a hopeful singleton might find their own Mr Darcy waiting under the mistletoe. At a series of glamorous, festive, and, most importantly, romantic events, Emma is making it her mission to find love for everyone this Christmas Season.

How will she fare trying to find perfect matches for the Price twins, both too busy trying to outdo the other to ever look for love? Can she encourage the sexy Season rake, Theo, to change his ways? And what of Hope Lucas, who Emma has failed to match before, but who still has faith that Mr Right is out there?

And with Emma so focused on finding everybody else’s happy ever after, is she at risk of letting her own perfect match slip away?

Welcome to the Christmas Season.

An uplifting, original and romantic read that fans of Lex Croucher and Lindsey Kelk will love.

Readers are loving The Christmas Season:

‘A heartwarming, magical romance guaranteed to give you the warm and fuzzies.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

‘Perfect for the upcoming holiday season. The cover is absolutely gorgeous…but the storyline is equally adorable.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

‘With an element of Bridgerton…this is a cute little romantic book about finding love but also finding yourself. Prefect winter read by the fire.’ Reader review

‘The concept is fantastic. I love the idea of a modern Regency season where people are encouraged to let go of the instant gratification of online dating and seek meaningful connections.’ Reader Review

‘A quick and cute read…I adore the concept of an old-fashioned season in modern times.’ Reader Review

‘This was a super lightweight, very quick read…gave me Love Actually vibes.’ Reader Review

Praise for Ally Sinclair:

‘I loved it! Clever, romantic, funny and completely different!’ Katie Fforde

‘I adored this witty, joyous romp of a tale.’ Liz Fenwick

‘Such a good book. I liked the characters, I loved reading their stories as they unfurled.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

‘What a fun read!…Three very modern romances occur against a backdrop of Regency recreation.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

‘Devoured this book…A modern-day must for lovers of Jane Austen. Cannot wait for the next book in the series. Highly recommend.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

‘I loved this book, the characters and the atmosphere. It was perfection.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

‘This was such a cute read! It takes readers back in time…Emma and Mr Knight were an irresistible combo.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

‘I loved the way Ally Sinclair brought elements of Jane Austen and flair of Bridgerton into a funny romance. I loved it.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

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