Beautiful, heartbreaking, often very funny and entirely unforgettable, The Beginning of Everything is the irresistible new novel from the bestselling author of The Bookshop of Second Chances. 'Raw, real and highly relatable, The Beginning of Everything is a keen observation on humanity and the tenuous nature of modern life. Jess and Gethin's gentle, layered friendship is at the wonderful heart of a warm, witty story about courage, kindness and love in all its forms. Uplifting, engaging and extraordinarily insightful!' JULIETTA HENDERSON 'Equal parts hilarious and sobworthy, it's a poignant tale of what it means to rebuild after losing everything' JESSICA RYN 'Hugely enjoyable' KATIE FFORDE For fans of The Keeper of Stories, The Wisdom of Sally Red Shoes and A Thousand Roads Home, The Beginning of Everything is the story of Jess and Gethin, whose paths cross in the most unexpected way. Jess is running, leaving all she knows and everyone she loves behind her, with just a few treasured belongings in her rucksack. She's escaping from the pain and trauma of a bad relationship with a bad man, gone very badly wrong. Gethin's kindness and care takes her breath away. They become friends. But with so much hurt in her past, can Jess learn to love and live again?