The war is over but her story has just begun

It is 1948 and the young and beautiful Marguerite Carter has lost her parents and survived a terrifying war, working for the SOE behind enemy lines. She returns to England to be one of the first women to receive a degree from the University of Cambridge. Now she pins back her unruly auburn curls, draws a pencil seam up her legs, ties the laces on her sensible black shoes, and sets out towards her future as an English teacher in a girls’ grammar school. Outside the classroom Britain is changing fast, and Miss Carter finds herself caught up in social upheaval, swept in and out of love and forging deep, enduring friendships.

"The book is terrific and shining through it is the spirit of Sheila herself: brave, indomitable and full of a desire to change the world for the better." - Judy Finnigan, Daily Express

"There is more than a touch of The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie about the book … Carter is an original and convincing character, and Hancock would be perfect for the part in a film of the book" - Daily Mail

"A novel of love, loss, politics, history and most importantly the power of friendship. A rich and absorbing story you won’t want to put down ****" - Daily Express

"Sheila Hancock has created an inspiring character – and a compelling portrait of Britain *****" - The Lady

"‘[Hancock] is a naturally gifted writer and Marguerite is an appealing heroine" - Sunday Times

"A sweeping story ... Well written and rich in historic detail" - Sunday Mirror

"Powerful ****" - Daily Telegraph