The Ragged Runaway

Wakefield, 1901 Emmeline Ashworth has never known real want. As the grocer’s daughter, she has warm meals, a solid roof, and a father who dotes on her. She’s always understood she is luckier than most, but nothing prepares her for the day a half-starved young woman runs into the shop, desperate for help. The girl – Lily - is bruised and ragged from the slums that sprawl at the edge of town and opens Emmie’s eyes to the harsh realities of life for some in Wakefield. Determined to offer her friendship and a lifeline, Emmie faces resistance from her beau, Rupert, who insists Emmie must keep her distance. Then Emmie meets Sebastian Fraser, a passionate local councillor fighting to improve conditions in the slums. His compassion mirrors her own—and awakens feelings she can’t ignore. Feelings she’s never had for Rupert. As Emmie risks everything to protect Lily from the dangers she’s fled, she must choose between the safe life she’s always known and the braver, kinder world she longs to buil