‘Ursula Bloom writes in a delightful way with a deep understanding of human nature and a quick eye for the humorous things in life’ Cambridge Daily News 1940s England. Schoolteacher Alice Marvin has always been a sensible woman. At forty she realises that somehow the exciting things in life have passed her by. A surprise windfall offers new possibilities. But her plans for a trip to the French Riviera are met with horror by the priggish folk of Brestonbury. Despite their disapproval, and a deep suspicion of all things foreign, Alice sets out on the adventure of a lifetime. A…

Jan has great ambitions for himself and his son. But will his dreams blind him to what matters most in life? Another sharply-observed, touching novel from 20th century bestseller Ursula Bloom. ‘She has always been able to tell a story.’ Everyman Through hard work and determination Jan escapes from humble beginnings. He is driven by his love for the beautiful but frail Josette and their son, Luis. When tragedy strikes, his loyal and dependable friend, Matina, is by Jan’s side. She recognises the child’s musical genius, and dedicates herself to it. Jan and Matina have great plans for young Luis.…

England, early 1900s. Carolyn Spinx knows that a mother is powerless to stop her sons from making mistakes in love. Especially when she has made the greatest blunder in her own life. Praise for Ursula Bloom: ‘… with every book she adds something to her reputation.’ Daily Telegraph Influenced by her social class, Carolyn chooses a “good marriage” over a love match, and lives to regret the decision. But her three sons provide comfort, as well as worry. Adam tries hard to do what is expected of him. But Carolyn would love him more if he didn’t seek to be…

Hugo Blair‘s dreams for his future are dashed by a stern father. Could the reason be connected to the death of Hugo’s mother in childbirth? Another perceptive, moving novel from 20th century bestseller Ursula Bloom. ‘She has always been able to tell a story.’ Everyman Hugo has always felt a passionate calling to a life at sea. But his father forces him into the family tea importing business. Monotonous office routine and setbacks in love are both bitter blows to the youth. Does James Blair‘s cold-hearted attitude stem from the death of his beautiful young wife? Despite Hugo’s pleas, James…

Late-Victorian England. For Mary, marriage offers a welcome escape from her suffocating home life. But the young bride discovers a stark difference between her romantic dreams and married life. Another sharply-observed, bittersweet novel from 20th century bestseller Ursula Bloom. Praise for Ursula Bloom: ‘… with every book she adds something to her reputation.’ Daily Telegraph George Carew seems ideal husband material to Mary. But the reality does not live up to the ideal. A chance meeting with naval officer Peter Lloyd shows Mary how different her life could be. Can she break free from convention and follow her heart’s desire,…

Lesley Saunders searches for love and meaning. Which of the men in her life can provide what she needs most? And will she recognise real love when she finds it? 70th anniversary edition of the bittersweet novel by bestseller Ursula Bloom. A perceptive and touching novel, perfect for readers who enjoy the works of Barbara Pym, Angela Thirkell and Elizabeth Taylor. PRAISE FOR URSULA BLOOM: ‘Ursula Bloom writes in a delightful way, with a deep understanding of human nature and a quick eye for the humorous things in life.’ Cambridge Daily News ‘… with every book she adds something to…