An unforgettable, sweeping novel of war and its aftermath, self discovery and family drama through the ages.

' A gorgeous read . . . there are some authors who were just made to write . . . you step into the pages, you step into a family.' Reader review, 5 stars

'Will the war last long? People are going to suffer and will have to make sacrifices, and everything will have to be on hold. It's horrible to contemplate but I'm twenty-seven and I can't help wondering if by the time it's over it'll be too late for me.'

Since the house was built in 1810, the Danes have lived in the elegant, light-filled rooms of Woodspring, and walked in the fields and woods that surround the house. Over the years, and through the changing seasons, it has brought shelter, solace and joy.

But now it's 1940 and Europe is in the midst of war. Everything is changing, and nothing will be the same again.

The next three generations of Danes will live very different lives to their predecessors, at home and abroad. Yet they know they are forever tied to Woodspring.

Love and fortunes may come and go, no one is untouched by loss... But, throughout all this, Woodspring remains a constant.

'Buchan is a magical and tender writer.' Amanda Craig
'One of our greatest living novelists.' Peter James

Perfect for fans of Fiona Valpy, Kristen Hannah and Lucinda Riley, readers are falling in love with Elizabeth Buchan's tender and evocative story of one family through the ages:

'With Elizabeth Buchan you know you are getting a beautifully written and perfectly-constructed story. Add to that . . . a sweeping multi-generational family saga, a stunning home, engaging characters . . . what's not to like? ' Reader review, 5 stars
' Elizabeth Buchan always delivers . . . thoughtful, engaging and humane . . . I loved it.' Reader review, 5 stars
'The best insight into the human heart . . . with her trademark thoughtfulness, insight and generosity.' Reader review, 5 stars
'A real page turner and a joy to read, thoroughly recommended.' Reader review, 5 stars
'This was was absolutely amazing! Highly recommend for a very emotional read.' Reader review, 5 stars

Elizabeth Buchan was a fiction editor at Random House before leaving to write full time. Her novels include the prize-winning Consider the Lily, international bestseller Revenge of the Middle-Aged Woman, The New Mrs Clifton and Two Women in Rome. Buchan's short stories are broadcast on BBC Radio 4 and published in magazines. She has reviewed for the Sunday Times, The Times and the Daily Mail, and has chaired the Betty Trask and Desmond Elliot literary prizes. She is a judge for the Women's Prize for non fiction 2024, and was also on the judging panels for the Whitbread First Novel Award and the 2014 Costa Novel Award. She is a patron of the Guildford Book Festival and co-founder of the Clapham Book Festival.