The Rag Maid - Catherine Cookson

When Millie’s mother abandons her one late afternoon in 1854, fate brings the seven-year-old to Aggie’s door – and life will never be the same for either of them.

Known locally as ‘Raggie Aggie’ for her business of trading rags and old clothes, the older woman knows the dangers waiting for such a strikingly pretty girl left alone in their rough area of Newcastle, and sees no other option but to take her in.

The unlikely pair soon form an unexpectedly strong bond. But there will be obstacles in their paths – will their friendship survive? Whatever happens, their relationship will change their lives for ever…