Will achieving independence mean forgoing happiness?

Scotland, 1918

As the war ends, Jenny Gillespie plans a new life in Glasgow, eager to escape her domineering, alcoholic father. But when her brother Maurice is reported missing in action, she must remain in the Clydeside town of Ellerslie, working at a shipyard tracing office to help support her struggling family—including her parents, grandmother, younger sister, and Maurice’s unmarried partner and child.

Frustrated by her stalled future, Jenny is unsettled by the return of her former beau, Robert Archer, now her supervisor. Though married, his wife is absent, and Jenny resists his influence. Instead, she accepts a proposal from a local widower, hoping for stability rather than love.

Marriage proves difficult, as she navigates a cold husband, a rebellious stepson, and concern for her infant daughter’s wellbeing. When tragedy strikes, Jenny’s world shifts, forcing her to confront difficult choices about her future and the life she wants for her child.

Previously published as A Handful of Happiness

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‘Evocative, beautifully rich, brilliantly detailed and meticulously researched - this story transported me and kept me up way past my bedtime - a triumph of a story. I very highly recommend Evelyn Hood’ – Renita D’Silva

'Faultless historical detail and emotionally complex characters make these engrossing and intelligent Evelyn Hood's sagas deeply satisfying' - Maisie Thomas