The story you tell the world isn't always the truth you hold in your heart ...
Accountant Beth is 30, recently divorced and at a crossroads. She knows she should be trying to move on with her life; but it's much easier to work from her rented flat as much as possible and hide away. And when she does venture out, it's because she's hoping to 'accidentally' bump into her ex.
Except, on a trip to the dentist, it's her ex-mother-in-law she bumps into instead - quite literally, because Martine collapses on the street in front of her. Rushing her home, Beth discovers pillar-of-the-community Martine is hiding her health woes from the rest of her family. What Martine really needs to do is move to the care home in the village - except everyone knows it is awful there.
On a visit to the home, Beth meets Lewis, the new owner who is resolved to turn around its reputation and facilities in time for a make-or-break inspection. Lewis has started a scheme called The Story of Your Life, encouraging residents to share their life history with others as a way of keeping memories alive. On the spur of the moment, Beth enrols Martine to this, but she is unprepared to learn the truths Martine has kept hidden from everyone. And are Beth's growing feelings for the residents of the home, and Lewis, a sign that she is finally moving on? Or will the inspection crush all their dreams?
Your favourite authors love Lucy Dillon:
'Bittersweet, lovely and ultimately redemptive; the kind of book that makes you want to live your own life better' JOJO MOYES
'This vibrant and uplifting novel has not only entertained me hugely, but made me change the way I look at life' KATIE FFORDE
'I always find Lucy Dillon's books so overflowing with wit and wisdom' JENNY COLGAN
