An orphan with no prospects, Charlie Matters’ life has always been a fight for survival. He emerged miraculously unscathed from the Blitz, but there’s no telling when the next bomb will fall, or whether it will be the one to end his life.

Molly Wakefield’s dreams of a joyful homecoming are all she’s had to hold on to after being evacuated to the countryside five years ago. But when she finally returns, Molly faces a London changed beyond recognition, and the devastating news that neither of her parents are there.

Charlie’s and Molly’s paths converge at The Book Keep, where they find an unexpected ally and protector in the bookshop’s owner, widower Ignatius Oliver. But the trio’s newfound peace is jeopardized as past secrets catch up with them. Can they help one another survive this turbulent time? Or will they be ripped apart from the last remaining people they hold dear?