Lessons in Life

The Yorkshire village of Beddingfield is home to the wonderful women of the Allen family: teacher Robyn, wannabe chef Jess, teenage tearaway Sorrel and matriarch Lisa, who holds the whole family together. But underneath her warmth and brilliance, Lisa has a secret – she longs to know who she really is.

In Hudson House, the grand manor on the edge of Beddingfield which is now a care home, lives seventy-something Eloise Howard. With film star beauty but memories fading fast, Eloise is slowly taking one foot at a time back into her past. Born into a prestigious family, her father the owner of the local Hudson’s Mill, Eloise’s life was destined to be one of finishing schools and balls. But when her path crossed Junayd Sattar’s, the most striking and kindest man she had ever met, nothing would ever be the same again.

When Lisa begins to spend time at Hudson House and befriends Eloise, the two women form an unbreakable bond. But unbeknownst to them both, they share secrets that, once uncovered, will change everything they believed about their own lives.

In her unmatched warm and uplifting voice, Julie Houston’s funny and profoundly moving tale of forbidden love, friendship and family ties will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page... Perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan, Fiona Gibson and Cathy Kelly.

Readers LOVE Julie Houston:

‘The best yet from Houston. Such a great story with relatable characters honestly couldn’t put it down. Really made me giggle in places. Really looking forward to the next in the series.’

‘Ahhh, this was so good, I enjoyed it immensely... Loved all of the main characters. You always know it’s a goody when you miss them when you’ve finished reading.’

‘A rollercoaster of emotions with relatable characters and an intriguing plot. Julie expresses all aspects of humanity in this well-paced tale, with a host of memorable characters and a great sense of place. I thoroughly enjoyed this book: in my opinion, her best yet.’

‘This is the first book by Julie Houston I have read. A perfect book to read over the weekend. Absolutely loved it. Brilliant book. Can't wait to read more books by her very soon.’

‘Julie’s books never disappoint Lots of wonderful new characters and a great story with real life issues and concerns woven in, but keeping the humour and romance flowing! Can’t wait for your next book!’

Praise for Julie Houston:

‘Warm and poignant, brimming with heart and humour and filled with characters I was rooting for. Loved this class act!’ Fiona Gibson

'This is a gorgeous, warm-hearted read with a cast of characters that you can't help but root for. It's a beautiful depiction of the special bond between sisters - warts and all and I can't wait to see where we go next with the Allen family.' Freya Kennedy

‘There is too much to love about Julie’s latest book. This story of three sisters is funny, heart-warming and will keep you hooked to the final page.’ Carmen Reid

'Warm, funny and well written, with a page-turning plot, this book has everything! I loved it!' Katie Fforde

'Julie Houston at her best – heartfelt and hilarious' Sandy Barker

'Laugh-out-loud hilarious and heartwarming!' Mandy Baggot

'A tour de force of beautiful, funny and emotional storytelling' Fay Keenan

'A warm, funny story of sisters and the secrets they keep' Sheila O'Flanagan

'This book is an absolute gigglefest with characters you'll fall in love with!' Katie Ginger