1910, Bath, England – Hardworking and whip smart, Elizabeth Pennington is the rightful heir of Bath’s premier department store, Pennington’s. But her father, Edward Pennington, believes his daughter lacks the business acumen to run his empire. He is resolute a man will succeed him.

Determined to break from her father''s hold and prove she is worthy of inheriting Pennington’s, Elizabeth makes two lifelong friends in Esther and Cornelia – who both work in the store.

She also forms an unlikely alliance with ambitious and charismatic master glove-maker Joseph Carter. They have the same goal: bring Pennington''s into a new decade while embracing women’s equality and progression. But, despite their best intentions, it is almost impossible not to mix business and pleasure…

Can Elizabeth, her friends, and the man she’s increasingly falling in love with, thwart Edward Pennington’s plans for the store? Or will Edward prove himself an unshakeable force who will ultimately ruin them all?

What readers are saying about Rachel Brimble’s gorgeous historical sagas!

‘Heart-warming yet gritty and gripping… Compelling reading.’ Lizzie Lane

‘I absolutely loved this book…. I couldn’t put it down.’ Fenella J Miller

‘Fantastic!’ Rosie Clarke

‘Heartwarming! … It was hard to put down!’ Patricia McBride

‘Skilled and vivid storytelling… I can’t wait to read more.’ May Ellis

‘Absolutely 10/10! Amazing storyline and loved the characters and setting, loved how the girls forged a friendship and stuck by each other, can’t wait to read more about these ladies.’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

‘A hopeful story about friendship and learning to trust. I love stories about women who strive for their own goals in life independent of men and who understand the joy and security of close female friendships. I’m looking forward to more books in the series!’ Reader Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Previously published as A Shop Girl in Bath.