One lost suitcase. Two strangers. And a notebook that will change lives.

For almost fifty years, sisters Dolly and Greta have lived together – getting each other through the good times and the bad.

Except this year, Greta isn’t there and Dolly is feeling lost and alone. In memory of her sister, Dolly heads to the lost luggage auction where she and Greta go each Christmas. But her bid reveals a gift she never imagined.

Amongst the clothes is the notebook of a reclusive woman who has hardly been outside for an entire year, but who isn’t ready to give up on life. The notebook’s contents resonate with Dolly. With the support of her neighbours, retired Leroy and eleven year old Flo, Dolly decides to take on the year of firsts Phoebe had planned.

But, can you have a year of firsts when you’re seventy-two? And is Dolly ready to discover the notebook’s secrets, or are some secrets better left lost at the airport?

Praise for Samantha Tonge:

‘Such a joy of a book’ Faith Hogan

‘Family stalemates are unravelled in this moving novel about three strong women told with Samantha’s warmth, humour and empathy’ Zoe Folbigg

‘Heartwarming tale of family rifts and reunions. A lovely read!’ Ruth Hogan

An achingly perceptive, beautifully written exploration of the complicated bonds between mothers and daughters. I adored it’ Shari Low 'A gorgeous tale of a divided family facing the past via a treasure hunt, beautifully written and full of fabulous 80s nostalgia.' Jessica Redland

‘An uplifting, yet emotional story about what it means to be family. You’ll laugh and you’ll cry’ Sian O’Gorman

‘I found this book tender, moving and intensely honest’ Celia Anderson

'Warm, wise and wonderfully nostalgic' Alex Brown

‘A heartfelt and thought-provoking read’ Sarah Bennett