The first of a new Yorkshire trilogy of novels by the bestselling author of SHODDY PRINCE and A COMPLICATED WOMAN.

Flamboyant and fun-loving, Kit Kilmaster rebels against the constraints of Victorian society and pursues her dreams. But as Kit is to learn, there is a high price to pay for happiness...

While her brothers and sisters shoulder the burdens of poverty and resign themselves to a life of drudgery, the voluptuous Katherine Kilmaster yearns for better things. Though her kin try to curb her buoyant nature and instil in her a sense of duty, Kit's craving for the good things in life is too strong.

Dismissed from one job after another, she promises to reform but never does. And when her generous heart tempts her into dangerous situations with young men above her station, the family are scandalized by Kit's brazen attitude - although that doesn't prevent them accepting a share in the material rewards. For a time Kit revels in the life of a courtesan, launching herself upon London Society, until an unexpected consequence of her free-and-easy lifestyle stops her in her tracks.

Thrust back into claustrophobic village life, Kit falls prey to malicious gossip, and then to tragedy. Overwhelmed by events, she finally heeds the advice of her well-meaning family, and is almost destroyed in the process. But then a chance encounter promises to deliver the husband and children she has always wanted - provided her shameful secret is not revealed...