Sometimes the only way forward… is to go back.

When Rowan Bellamy’s marriage collapses in spectacular style, she retreats with her two children, Bella and Theo, to the last place she ever wanted to return—her windswept Cornish hometown of Port Agnes. Taking the headteacher role at the local primary school is the easy part. Facing village gossip, curious neighbours, and old flames? Not so much.

Especially when one of those flames turns out to be Nathan Lark — the boy who broke her heart and the man who now has a reputation as bruised as her own. With his young nephew Leo a pupil in Rowan’s school, she and Nathan are thrown into each other’s lives once more. And whether she likes it or not, the chemistry between them is impossible to ignore.

As salty sea air begins to soothe old wounds and Port Agnes slowly feels like home again, Rowan must decide if she’s brave enough to let go of the past and open her heart one more time.

A heartwarming, emotional story of second chances, seaside charm and the healing power of coming home. Let top ten bestseller Jo Bartlett sweep you away with an uplifting, emotional read —perfect for fans of Veronica Henry, Sarah Morgan and Cathy Bramley.

Praise for Jo Bartlett:

'Stunning setting, wonderful characters, and oozing with warmth. A triumph from Jo Bartlett' Jessica Redland

'Perfectly written and set in the beating heart of a community, this story is a wonderful slice of Cornish escapism' Helen J Rolfe

‘Jo Bartlett writes books full of heart, hope, and humour. A delightful read.' Bestselling author, Kim Nash

‘A dream of a Cornish setting and a cast of fascinating characters that will warm the heart. I loved it!’ Bestselling author, Celia Anderson

'I was drawn in from the first word, I’ve laughed and cried, what a really lovely story' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

'I would highly recommend this book for a bit of fantastic escapism and love conquering all' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

'A heart-warming tale which I enjoyed reading very much' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

'I really loved this book and look forward to the next in the series' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

'I love books from Jo Bartlett you can always get involved with all the characters they feel like your family and friends' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review