Phoebe Giamatti lives with her boisterous Italian family in the heart of London’s East End. Phoebe’s father was killed in gang warfare and she and her family share a deep hatred for the Paxman brothers – whose lawless ways strike terror into the whole community. Despite her English mother’s feckless ways, Phoebe is fiercely protective of Annie. Then just as the family are about to go to Italy for the winter, Phoebe discovers Annie is in trouble – and the Paxmans are involved. Phoebe is determined not to betray her mother’s trust and, giving up her own chance of happiness, she stays behind to care for her. But when Phoebe and Annie are forced to leave London and Annie falls dangerously ill, Phoebe has little choice but to turn to the man she holds responsible for all her family’s troubles…
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of London's East End with Dilly Court's compelling novel, *Mother's Trust*. This sweeping family saga, published by Arrow in 2012, delves into the lives of the Giamatti family, an Italian clan grappling with loss, loyalty, and the ever-present shadow of a bitter feud. Phoebe Giamatti is the heart of this turbulent story. Following the tragic death of her father in gang warfare, she carries the weight of responsibility for her family, especially her vulnerable sister, Annie. The Paxman brothers, notorious for their lawless grip on the community, are the embodiment of everything Phoebe despises, holding them responsible for the family's misfortunes. Just as the Giamattis are preparing for their annual winter escape to Italy, a devastating secret threatens to unravel their fragile peace. Annie finds herself entangled with the dreaded Paxmans, placing her in grave danger. Torn between her own dreams of a brighter future and her unwavering devotion to her family, Phoebe makes a heartbreaking decision. She sacrifices her chance to leave, remaining behind in the gritty East End to protect Annie. But the streets of London offer little refuge. Forced to flee, Phoebe and Annie face hardship and illness. Desperate and with nowhere else to turn, Phoebe must confront her deepest convictions and seek help from the very man she holds accountable for her family's pain. Will she be able to put aside her hatred and trust the one person she swore she never would? Dilly Court, a beloved author known for her richly detailed historical sagas, masterfully weaves a tale of resilience, sacrifice, and the enduring power of family bonds. *Mother's Trust* is a gripping read, packed with drama, emotion, and unforgettable characters. It's a story that will resonate with fans of historical fiction, family sagas, and anyone who appreciates a tale of courage in the face of adversity. The novel has been praised for its authentic portrayal of East End life and its emotionally charged narrative. Readers have described it as "unputdownable" and "deeply moving," praising Court's ability to create vivid characters and storylines that stay with you long after you've finished reading. At 512 pages, this paperback edition offers hours of immersive reading. Experience the grit, the love, and the unwavering strength of a mother's trust.