In an instant, their lives will be changed forever

A thrilling saga inspired by the real events of the Great Sheffield Flood, The Ragged Valley follows the fortunes of three people caught up in one of the worst industrial disasters of the Victorian era.

Determined not to waste his life toiling for his cruel brother, Silas, the second son of a farmer, arrives in town to seek his fortune. Harriet has reconciled herself to being in domestic service for her strict uncle. And John Gunson, chief engineer at the Sheffield Waterworks Company, has just completed his crowning glory – the Dale Dyke dam.

But one stormy night, the unthinkable happens. The dam bursts. A wall of water is unleashed, destroying everything in its path.

Fatefully brought together, Silas and Harriet must contend with their families as new love blooms. Meanwhile, Gunson faces a court of inquest looking for a scapegoat.

Can any good come from the disaster, and will justice be served for those who lost everything?

PRAISE FOR THE RAGGED VALLEY

‘A fabulous debut by a new saga author!’
Anne Marie Brear

‘A powerful and absorbing story and an impressive debut. Her passion for the era and area in which she writes shines through.’
Emma Hornby

‘A story both tragic and inspiring.’
Libby Ashworth

‘Terrific characters and an exciting storyline kept me turning the pages, eager to find out what happened next.’
Lesley Eames

‘A gorgeous debut… written with passion and attention to detail, Clague leaves no stone unturned.’
Andie Newton, USA Today bestselling author of The Girls from the Beach