A family divided, a love tested, and a future hanging in the balance. In 1864 Nuneaton, after Nessie Carson's mother is murdered and her father abandons them, she must protect her family. Unprotected, she attracts the attention of her lecherous landlord. When her fragile brother's health fails, she meets the kind Dr. Oliver Dorsey, but they can never be together. Nessie finds herself in the darkest of times, but light and happiness await if she is brave enough to fight for them. Perfect for fans of Dilly Court and Catherine Cookson.