The wonderful new novel from the Sunday Times bestselling author of Ralph's Party.
When she was nine years old, Melody Browne’s house burned down, taking every toy, every photograph, every item of clothing and old Christmas card with it. But not only did the fire destroy all her possessions, it took with it all her memories – Melody Browne can remember nothing before her ninth birthday. Now in her early thirties, Melody lives in a council flat in the middle of London with her seventeen-year-old son. She hasn’t seen her parents since she left home at fifteen, but Melody doesn’t mind, she’s better off on her own. She’s made a good life for herself and her son and she likes it that way.
Until one night something extraordinary happens. Whilst attending a hypnotist show with her first date in years she faints – and when she comes round she starts to remember. At first her memories mean nothing to her but then slowly, day by day, she begins to piece together the real story of her childhood. Her journey takes her to the seaside town of Broadstairs, to oddly familiar houses in London backstreets and to meetings with strangers who love her like their own. But with every mystery she solves another one materialises, with every question she answers another appears. And Melody begins to wonder if she’ll ever know the truth about her past…
About the Author
Lisa Jewell was born and raised in north London, where she lives with her husband and two daughters. Her first novel, Ralph's Party, was the bestselling debut of 1999. She is also the author of Thirtynothing, One-Hit Wonder, Vince & Joy, A Friend of the Family and 31 Dream Street, all of which have been Sunday Times bestsellers.
Industry Reviews
"For anyone who hasn't picked up a Lisa Jewell novel since her chick-lit classic Ralph's Party, it might be time for a re-acquaintance ... Jewell's writing proves as punchy and fresh as ever. Her lively depiction of inner-city London living and dating still rings true" Independent "Lisa Jewell's writing is like a big warm hug and this book is a touching, insightful and gripping story which I simply couldn't put down" -- Sophie Kinsella "Lisa's best book yet. I loved it" -- Jane Fallon "The Truth about Melody Browne perfectly illustrates the truth about Lisa Jewell. She writes like a dream, creates characters that you really care about and tells a story so compelling that it will still be with you long after you've read the last page" -- Mike Gayle "Classic storytelling" Elle
