A novel of secrets, memory, family, and forgiveness by the USA Today bestselling author of The Art of Enchantment.

Sophie Groenveld needs an escape from the tension at home as much as she needs answers. Armed with only a backpack, her boyfriend and a mysterious old photograph, Sophie escapes Port Hope for a summer in England, determined to uncover the secrets of her mother’s past. She’s certain that whatever she discovers about the missing half of her family will help her figure out where she belongs, and what to do with her own life, as well as somehow heal the heartache that plagues her mother.

Sophie didn’t expect her rebellious summer jaunt to leave her stranded in York without money, her passport or her travelling companion. When her boyfriend ditches her and she has to find work to survive, the photo leads her to an old rundown inn, its mysterious proprietor with a fractured past, and a collection of new friends who carry the clues to solve the mystery.

Thus begins Sophie’s journey of discovery about her family, her legacy, and herself. At twenty-three Sophie had yet to learn whom she could trust. With life spinning in unexpected directions Sophie anchors herself to the shabby but quaint Aviary Inn in York as the new night desk clerk, curious about its role in the old photo she brought from home, and her mother’s secret family history.

Navigating complexities and roadblocks, she applies her energy and spirit to the old-world hotel and the labyrinthine lives of the eccentric but lovable staff, guests, and intriguing locals, including possible new love interests. When a surprise hotel guest provides an important road sign, Sophie must decide if she needs a guiding hand, or whether she’s ready to chart her own course.

Tropes include:

• Dual timeline Historical (90’s & WWII 1945)
• Set in England (York & the Lake District)
• Cozy Mystery
• Coming of Age/New Adult
• Romance
• Family Saga
• Women’s Fiction

While you wait, check out MaryAnn’s other books here!