Based on a true story, a tale of love and survival against all the odds set in Hong Kong at the start of the Pacific War.

Can love conquer all?

Spring 1939 - dashing young William Burton and the beautiful Constance Han set sail from London on the same ocean liner to Hong Kong.

Connie is intrigued by Will’s talent for writing poetry, and as romance blossoms she offers to give him Cantonese lessons to help him with his new job — a cadet in the colonial service.

But once in Hong Kong, Connie is constrained by filial duty towards her Eurasian parents, and their wish for her to marry someone from her own background.

When war breaks out, Connie and Will find themselves drawn into a wider conflict than their battle against prejudice. Can they survive and achieve a future together? Or will forces beyond their control keep them forever apart?

A sweeping tale of love and perseverance, perfect for readers of Dinah Jefferies, Fiona Valpy and Ann Bennett

Previously published as The Flame Tree

''Five stars without a moment’s hesitation, highly recommended if you enjoy historical romance.'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

''Wow! Just WOW! What a completely absorbing read... I absolutely lapped up every single word.'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

''It was a real page turner, and so engrossed was I, that I read it in one sitting! A good read!'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

''This is a wonderfully rewarding read with vivid characters and settings. I''d give it more stars if they were available.'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

''A convincing and very moving romance, a fascinating slice of history. Coupled with the most wonderful story-telling, this book delivered everything I could have possibly wanted.'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

PRAISE FOR SIOBHAN DAIKO

''Reading Siobhan''s Daughters of Tuscany was like meeting an old, dear friend after a long absence. What a poignant, emotional, thoroughly enjoyable read this was! ... such beautiful prose and such a brilliant story that completely transported me.'' Renita D''Silva

''... wonderfully fast-paced and readable... I would recommend this book to anyone who loves to be transported to a different place and time and wants a thoroughly absorbing read, Ann Bennett

''A fantastic story, so evocative of both time and place,'' Jo Bartlett

Based on a true story, a tale of love and survival against all the odds set in Hong Kong at the start of the Pacific War.

Can love conquer all?

Spring 1939 - dashing young William Burton and the beautiful Constance Han set sail from London on the same ocean liner to Hong Kong.

Connie is intrigued by Will’s talent for writing poetry, and as romance blossoms she offers to give him Cantonese lessons to help him with his new job — a cadet in the colonial service.

But once in Hong Kong, Connie is constrained by filial duty towards her Eurasian parents, and their wish for her to marry someone from her own background.

When war breaks out, Connie and Will find themselves drawn into a wider conflict than their battle against prejudice. Can they survive and achieve a future together? Or will forces beyond their control keep them forever apart?

A sweeping tale of love and perseverance, perfect for readers of Dinah Jefferies, Fiona Valpy and Ann Bennett

Previously published as The Flame Tree

''Five stars without a moment’s hesitation, highly recommended if you enjoy historical romance.'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

''Wow! Just WOW! What a completely absorbing read... I absolutely lapped up every single word.'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

''It was a real page turner, and so engrossed was I, that I read it in one sitting! A good read!'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

''This is a wonderfully rewarding read with vivid characters and settings. I''d give it more stars if they were available.'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

''A convincing and very moving romance, a fascinating slice of history. Coupled with the most wonderful story-telling, this book delivered everything I could have possibly wanted.'' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Reader Review

PRAISE FOR SIOBHAN DAIKO

''Reading Siobhan''s Daughters of Tuscany was like meeting an old, dear friend after a long absence. What a poignant, emotional, thoroughly enjoyable read this was! ... such beautiful prose and such a brilliant story that completely transported me.'' Renita D''Silva

''... wonderfully fast-paced and readable... I would recommend this book to anyone who loves to be transported to a different place and time and wants a thoroughly absorbing read, Ann Bennett

''A fantastic story, so evocative of both time and place,'' Jo Bartlett