Wiltshire, 1910.
With her stepfather threatening her with a forced marriage, Mattie Willitt flees home in search of a better life. She is soon lost and at the mercy of the elements until her life is saved by Jacob, a widower who takes her in and nurses her back to health. Finding consolation in each others troubled pasts, the pair soon grow close.
But when pressure is put upon them to marry, and Matties stepfather discovers her whereabouts, they must face their fears and stand up to those who threaten their future happiness.
Discover a captivating historical romance and family saga with Anna Jacobs' "Cherry Tree Lane (The Wiltshire Girls)," a heartwarming tale of resilience, love, and finding hope in the face of adversity. Set in the picturesque Wiltshire countryside of 1910, this compelling novel introduces us to Mattie Willitt, a young woman on the run from a bleak and oppressive situation. Faced with the imminent threat of a forced marriage orchestrated by her cruel stepfather, Mattie makes the courageous decision to flee her home in search of a life where she can determine her own destiny. Her journey is fraught with danger, and she quickly finds herself lost and vulnerable, exposed to the harsh elements of the unforgiving landscape. Just as despair begins to set in, fate intervenes in the form of Jacob, a kind-hearted widower who discovers Mattie in dire need of assistance. Jacob, still grieving the loss of his wife, offers Mattie shelter and nurses her back to health. As they spend time together, a deep connection begins to form between them. They find solace and understanding in each other's troubled pasts, forging a bond built on shared experiences and a mutual desire for happiness. However, their burgeoning romance is threatened by external pressures. The local community, steeped in traditional values, begins to exert pressure on them to marry, raising eyebrows and whispering judgments about their unconventional relationship. Adding to their woes, Mattie's vengeful stepfather, determined to control her life, discovers her whereabouts and sets out to bring her back home by force. Mattie and Jacob must now confront their fears, summon their courage, and stand united against those who seek to tear them apart. Will their love be strong enough to overcome the obstacles in their path and secure a future filled with happiness and freedom? "Cherry Tree Lane" is more than just a romance; it's a richly textured portrayal of life in rural England during the early 20th century. Anna Jacobs masterfully weaves together themes of family, community, social injustice, and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to challenge societal norms. Readers will be captivated by the vividly drawn characters, the evocative descriptions of the Wiltshire landscape, and the emotionally resonant storyline. This book is perfect for fans of historical fiction, family sagas, and heartwarming romances that leave a lasting impression. It will resonate with readers who appreciate stories of strong women overcoming adversity and finding love in unexpected places. Published by Allison & Busby, this paperback edition of "Cherry Tree Lane" contains 384 pages of engaging storytelling that will transport you to another time and place. Anna Jacobs is a well-known author for her historical fiction novels and she is praised by her readers for her ability to develop characters you actually care for.