What sylvie says

Alan, don’t you think it’s time you got cleaned up? Grantham’s coming to tea.” Helen looked at her sixteen-year-old son’s filthy overalls and grease-streaked arms. “I wish you wouldn’t get quite so di

JENNA had a length of Christmas-themed fabric. She had used it previously to cover the table of her market stall, and was willing to sacrifice to help beautify Santa’s Grotto. It was patterned with al

LITERALLY no jobs come in over the Christmas period,” Jenna said. Lola Everett looked into her sister’s face, which was like her own but six years younger. “But is that true?” she asked. Jenna had a h

I’VE had an idea!” Amanda charged into the living room, shiny brown ponytail swinging. “Oh, no.” Dylan, his bearlike frame packed into an armchair, slid down an inch. Ignoring his reaction, she pointe

OK? Ready?” “Yep.” Fi smiled at Brand. She then picked up the bags full of presents, hoping her face had been convincing. There had been a time when she’d loved these family gatherings at Christmas bu

WHAT’S that racket?” Rae looked around. “It’s Jake. Your son,” she called, smiling. “He’s bought a second-hand drum kit.” Leo winced as another loud crash echoed down the stairs, then he took off his