In the swinging sixties, two women are united by friendship yet tested by a devastating secret...
By the much-loved author of In the Dark Streets Shining and The Apple of Her Eye , Pam Evans creates a gripping world of secrets, fashion and romance, and tests a friendship to its outer limits. Perfect for fans of Sheila Newberry and Nadine Dorries.
In 1963 Eve Peters has it young, beautiful and fashionable, she also has a gorgeous husband, Ken. She dreams of owning a house in Ealing where they can start a family. But a horrific tragedy leaves Eve a widow, with Ken's baby on the way.
But then Eve meets Meg - blonde, vivacious and also single. Meg's baby is due soon after Eve's and the two women strike up a deep friendship. Meg owns a successful boutique and when she learns that Eve is also passionate about clothes, she offers her a job and they become business partners. And when handsome Bart Baxter walks into her life, Eve starts to believe that once again she can find love and happiness. But then Meg reveals a devastating secret that has the power to destroy one of the most rewarding relationships in Eve's life...
What readers are saying about A Smile for All Seasons :
' Great book that you can pick up at any time. Love all books by Pamela Evans'
Resilience, Style, and Friendship — A brilliant, empowering family saga
[The Empowering Core] This is a family saga at its absolute best. Set against the rapidly changing backdrop of the 1960s onwards, the story beautifully highlights the quiet, everyday bravery of women. Watching Eve and Meg find their true independence, take immense pride in their careers, and run successful boutiques to earn enough money to support their loved ones was incredibly inspiring and joyful to read.
[The Characters & Relationships] The book doesn’t shy away from the complex realities of relationships, testing deep loyalties while showing what it truly means to survive life's seasons—the good, the bad, and the deeply painful. The characters face their fair share of heartbreak, but their sheer resilience is what sticks with you. Apart from Bea, who is a genuinely horrible mother, the cast is wonderful. It was deeply satisfying to watch Eve, Meg, and Frank all stand up to Bea and put her in her place, though it would have been even better to see Bea forced to keep working rather than letting Frank become the breadwinner again!
[The Setting & Drama] The historical setting is brilliant, and the detailed focus on 1960s fashion and boutique life adds a gorgeous, vivid layer to the plot. While the book is packed with plenty of drama and high-stakes moments, at its very heart is a moving reminder of the power of community and family togetherness—people who unconditionally show up for each other in both the good times and the bad.
[The Verdict: A Must-Read] A beautiful, triumphant story of female independence, friendship, and the strength it takes to keep going through the changing seasons of life.