Can she escape the dark shadows of the coalfields to build a brighter future for the sister she loves?
Leeds, 1857
Nineteen-year-old Mary-Anne Wild and her younger sister, Eliza, have always known the hardships of life on Pit Lane, living under the shadow of their cruel, drunken stepfather. But when a sudden family tragedy leaves them entirely alone and penniless, Mary-Anne finds herself at the mercy of the ruthless mine owner, Edmund Ellershaw. Forced into a desperate sacrifice to keep a roof over her sister's head, Mary-Anne’s world is shattered by a devastating secret.
When John Vasey, a kind-hearted Irish dockworker, enters her life, he offers a glimmer of hope and the promise of a fresh start across the Atlantic. But with a heartbreaking predicament growing daily and secrets threatening their hard-won livelihood, Mary-Anne is torn between love, loyalty and survival.
Can Mary-Anne find the courage to reclaim her destiny? Or will the secrets of Pit Lane destroy her chance at true happiness?
Diane was born in Leeds but now lives in the Yorkshire Dales with her family. She previously worked in publishing at Magna Large Print Books but now works full-time writing. She writes historical sagas for Award Winning publisher Boldwood Books.