When her father retires from the British Army, Evie Davenport and her family leave their home in India to return to England, Evie's home of birth. However, tragedy strikes and Evie and her father finally settle in a new home in rural England which is a far cry from her beautiful India. She doesn't have the same freedoms in England that she had in India and it takes her time to get used to a different lifestyle. She becomes close friends with young Sophie Bellingham and her life is once again thrown into a spin when she meets the man that is destined to be Sophie's betrothed. Alexander has an effect on her like nobody has before and Evie must fight every desirous thought she has. She loves her friend too much to hurt her.

This is a really enjoyable novel with lots of things going on for Evie and lots of dilemmas on top of her feelings for Alexander to contend with. The widow Mrs Myer has her sights set on Evie's very vulnerable father whose grief for the loss of his wife is all consuming and poor Evie is desperate to do anything to bring him back to his old self. As well as Mrs Myer's casting a shadow over Evie's life there is also the son of her cook causing her despair and fear. There's just so much happening to throw Evie's world into one of confusion, worry and fear.

Evie is a brilliant character. A free spirit who refused to conform to what was expected of a woman of her station. She did her own thing and stood up for herself. She had real grit and took no nonsense from anyone though would do anything to protect her father. She also has a great sense of social justice, not afraid to voice her views on slavery for example.

I really enjoyed the story and thought it was interesting and well paced with lots of historical context to give the reader a real sense of time and place. Clearly lots of research has been undertaken to ensure historical accuracy.  There are lots of themes covered in the book, ranging from domestic violence to grief and women's rights. A recommended read from me.