Some houses won’t let go of the past. Some people won’t, either…

When single mum Libby is offered a life-changing sum of money to clear out an old cottage in the woods, she expects dust and decay. She doesn’t expect a house full of secrets, a room full of birds, and a woman who refuses to leave.

The handsome but stressed architect who hired Libby is also a puzzle. Why can't Ross empty Elm Cottage himself? What can he possibly see in Libby, who has been burned by love and is wary of attachment? How can they persuade the mysterious but kindly Isobel to move on?

As Libby is pulled into the cottage's story, she must face up to her own deepest fears. Can she help Isobel, fight the past that haunts her, and learn to open her own heart to love once more?

Jane Lovering’s new novel is a delicious, romantic mystery where secrets, love and healing weave through every page.

Praise for Jane Lovering:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Jane's books are always an autobuy for me - subtle, nuanced, and full of emotion… Beautifully done. There's vulnerability, learning to move on while not dismissing the past, and there's also a lot of humour as well as the bits that made me well up. Thoroughly recommended.’ Reader Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘This really was quite wonderful writing… Such an emotionally engaging read – and one I really couldn’t recommend more highly.’ Reader Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'Beautifully written and both heartbreaking and heartwarming' Jessica Redland

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'A funny, warm-hearted read, filled with characters you'll love.' Matt Dunn

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Another wonderful book from Jane Lovering… she draws me in every time and I feel so emotionally invested in her characters.’ Reader Review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘I’ve smiled and cried in equal measures, the loveliest of characters in a wonderful setting, the end of the story concludes beautifully with an unexpected ending… Just glorious!’ Reader Review