ANNA Jacobs grew up in Lancashire before emigrating to Australia and the influence of this early heritage shows in her books.

Her latest Our Mary Ann (Hodder & Stoughton £18.99) chronicles the hard life of a young illegitimate lass. Abused by her stepfather and sent away at 15 to have his baby, she meets Gabriel Clough who helps her escape to Blackpool after the birth.

But, while the Great War brings the blossoming woman great opportunities, it takes Gabriel away and circumstances change dramatically to keep them apart.

Anna Jacobs knows how to tell a heartwarming tale involving real characters to enthrall the reader. Her fans will welcome this new novel, and new readers will vow to search out her others.