Gleam of Gold — Tessa Barclay

A compelling saga of love, loss and independence

Flame-haired Gwendolen Whitechurch is bright. The daughter of a respected cabinet-maker, Gwen has been brought up as her father's right-hand woman. When the Great War brings tragedy, the death of her beloved father means tremendous change. Usurped as the head of the firm Gwen readily escapes to Paris to become one of the darlings of the Art Deco movement.

In Paris 1920, Gwen wins the love and admiration of Tamaki Hayakawa, a renowned lacquerist. When Tama is summoned home to Tokyo, the lovers can't bear to be parted. Quickly married, life in Japan is not easy for the beautiful and independent European.  Her in-laws are suspicious and unfriendly, and Tama increasingly reverts to Japanese customs.

As natural disasters cause further tragedy and loss, can Gwen survive in a world in which she has no home? Follow Gwen's endeavours until the advent of the Second World War: a momentous event that threatens her career, her spirit and ultimately, her life…

Gleam of Gold is perfect for fans of Pam Howes, Katie Flynn and Anna King