Mia is telling me a story. It’s about a princess, who lives on a street just like ours. I’m distracted for a moment by her little hand softly slipping into mine. My daughter. My angel.

But then she says something that snaps me back to reality. She says that there’s an old lady who’s a queen, and who’s kind. Except that she doesn’t treat the princess well. She punishes her and doesn’t let her eat anything…

Helen, my neighbour, has been so good to me. And more importantly, she’s amazing with the children, looking after them when I am struggling as a single parent, having escaped an abusive relationship. Surely this is just another story of Mia’s, just make believe?

But if it’s not, what if my own father was right, and I was never good enough to be a mother in the first place?

I tighten my grip on my sweet, trusting little girl’s hand. And vow I will do whatever it takes to protect her…

A heartbreaking and uplifting story about the choices a mother makes for the sake of her children, perfect for fans of Jodi Picoult, Emma Robinson and Kate Hewitt.

‘Loved this book!!!!!… Addictive. There was no way I was putting it down, I literally started reading the book around 10am and couldn't put it down until around 4am. Hahaha I'm so glad it was the weekend!!!!… I definitely recommend it!!!’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

‘A breathtaking novel about motherhood… I felt angst, tension, compassion, empathy, surprise and suspicion…. Do not miss this novel, especially if you enjoy reading about families and their realistic struggles and moments of joy…. Grabbed my heart… Phenomenally emotive.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

‘A masterpiece story of a family finding their way… Hit all the feels for me and I was invested in the story from the beginning to the brilliant end. My emotions ran wild throughout this story and I would love to see this become a Netflix hit.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

‘A remarkable tale depicting a family's journey through the complexities of emotional challenges. Norton's storytelling kept engrossed me from start to finish, leaving a lasting impact… Truly captivating.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

‘A really great read. I really enjoyed this story… Beautifully written and a mother’s love for her children shines throughout the book as Jess struggles to make a home for them all and keep them safe.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

‘I LOVED this book. I was so drawn in by the weird dynamics between Jess and the neighbours.’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review