A charming and romantic historical novel for 2026 from the internationally best-selling author

The brand new novel from the author of Netgalley's Historical Fiction Book of 2025 The Lamplighter's Bookshop

Two locked hearts. One secret that could set them free …

He can't bear to remember. She is desperate to forget …

From the stage of the Penny Farthing Theatre, Ava Adams uses hypnotism to draw long-buried memories from the lost and the lonely. Taught by her late mother, Ava once believed in her gift — until heartbreak shattered her confidence.

Damien Carter is running from disaster when he sees Ava’s face on a faded poster. It feels like he’s been waiting for her all his life.

But as dark forces conspire to break them, can they reach beyond the prison of their memories to find redemption together?

Readers love Sophie Austin! What's not to love?! Nineteenth century York, bookshops and brilliant characters!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'Spellbinding and romantic’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'A beautifully told historical novel’ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐