For Zoe Zalum, a has-been artist and reformed drug addict, it’s been an eight-year sabbatical from motherhood. But she returns on the day of her father-in-law’s funeral and she wants her boys. Chris and Max, however, have only known two parents: grandparents Noel and Naomi. They’re the ones who’ve loved and nurtured them over the years. Now widowed and alone, Naomi is confronted with the reality of losing everything.

There’s already a huge rift between the two women. Naomi resents Zoe for the death of her own sons, Ben and Jesse, in a car accident. She’s not prepared to relinquish the only living link to her children. A period of legal proceedings will see Naomi marginalised and the boys awarded to their mother. The three will move into the colourless surroundings of a housing commission flat on the wrong side of town – a change which will expose the boys to the crime and vulnerability that comes with destitution. Love, however, conquers all. Old wounds are healed and bonds are renewed.

A very pertinent novel about tolerance and forgiveness. Moving and beautifully written.