THE ENCHANTING NEW NOVEL BY THE AUTHOR OF THE 2022 WATERSTONES SCOTTISH BOOK OF THE YEAR, THE FAIR BOTANISTS.

A story of secrets, friendship and intrigue, set against the backdrop of subversive mid-19th century Glasgow, by the author of the critically acclaimed The Fair Botanists

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You wouldn't suspect it, but scandalous secrets are being kept on Blythswood Square...

1846. Glasgow is a city on the cusp of great social change, but behind the curtains, neighbours are watching, and rumours of improper behaviour spread like wildfire on the respectable Blythswood Square.

When Charlotte Nicholl discovers that the fortune she has been bequeathed by her father is tied up in a secret collection of erotic art, she is faced with a terrible dilemma: sell it and risk shaming her family's good name or lose her home.

An encounter with Ellory McHale, a talented working-class photographer newly arrived in Glasgow, leads Charlotte to hope she has found not only someone who might help her, but also an unlikely friend.

Yet Ellory is hiding secrets of her own - secrets that become harder to conceal as she finds herself drawn into Charlotte's world.

As the truth begins to catch up with both women, will it destroy everything they've fought to build - or set them both free?

PRAISE FOR THE FAIR BOTANISTS:

'Sheridan creates an evocative, enjoyable portrait of two women determined to lead independent lives' SUNDAY TIMES

'Completely enchanting and fascinating . . . a rollicking and immensely readable tale' SCOTSMAN

'Lush, seductive and scandalous, this is a gorgeous read' DAILY MAIL

'A cracking good read' VAL MCDERMID

'Dazzling, original, full of wonderful characters' KATIE FFORDE

'What a beautiful, immersive gem of historical fiction' GOOD HOUSEKEEPING

'An absolute treat for fans of historical fiction and rich storytelling' RED

(P)2024 Hodder & Stoughton Limited