Sappho was so happy when she married Gavin. But she hadn't considered his daughter, Isobel. Isobel is a delightful, charming girl who spends her school holidays caring for the elderly and who is the apple of Gavin's eye. Now cast in the role of Wicked Stepmother, Sappho tries all she can to befriend Isobel and find her place in the new family. It's not easy, but no one had promised it would be. Sappho perseveres. But she has a history, and the history works against her. When it becomes clear that Isobel is stealing Gavin's love and attention, Sappho must fight for his affection. But how can she win her husband back?

With warmth, wit and her unique insights into the workings of the female mind, Fay Weldon has written a brilliant, unsettling new novel about family life today.

Fay Weldon is one of Britain's most respected and best-loved authors. She lives in Dorset with her husband, has four sons, three stepsons and six grandchildren.

Jan Francis has starred in numerous theatre, film and TV productions. She co-starred as Penny in Just Good Friends and she has also made many guest appearances on TV in series such as Heartbeat, My Family and Micawber. Other notable roles include Sally Hardcastle in Stay Lucky, Maggie Perowne in Under the Hammer and Kathryn Lewis QC in Verdict.