A scullery maid. A forbidden friendship. A love that defies class boundaries, and a hideous Christmas crime that changes everything.

Penniless and alone in Victorian London after her father’s death, Margaret Wilshire finds refuge as a servant at Madame Boynton’s School for Girls. But behind the school’s respectable façade lurks a web of deadly secrets—and the cruel headmistress Winifred holds them all.

When Margaret forms an unlikely bond with Ruth Braddock, a wealthy student whose kindness offers a glimpse of a brighter future, she dares to dream of escaping her life of drudgery. But Winifred will stop at nothing to maintain her iron grip on the school, even murder.

Framed for a crime she didn’t commit, Margaret flees into London’s merciless winter streets. Her only hope lies with Timothy Braddock, Ruth’s brooding brother, who sees beyond Margaret’s accusations to the truth in her heart. Together, they must expose Winifred’s dark deeds before she can destroy more innocent lives.

From the shadows of debtor’s prison to the glittering ballrooms of high society, this sweeping Christmas tale of love, betrayal, and redemption will keep awake until the final page.

Perfect for fans of Victorian saga romance who love their happily-ever-afters hard-won by their courageous heroines and heroes.