The war may be nearing the end, but it's the coldest winter in memory and Londoners are getting tired of the struggle of it all.

Vee is congratulating herself on her way home from a successful shopping trip, when she witnesses a road accident.

At first traumatised by what she's witnessed, she's then fearful of what might be revealed as she's called as a witness in court.

Will this close scrutiny of her life, and that of her charge, teenager Noel, tear things apart?

It's another beautifully atmospheric, nostalgic and delightfully amusing novel from Lissa Evans. The period is vividly evoked in a wry observation of resourceful and pragmatic characters living in the wartorn capital. And the characters are charming, warm and uplifting. Noel with his animal dissection, language studies and fascination with architecture, as well as his slightly resigned take on the adult behaviour around him, is wonderful.