Kate Benning and Tom Cole, both members of neighbourly households known locally as The Three Families, had always known they would marry each other. However, Tom was stifling her, and Kate was determined to free herself of these marital expectations before the New Year began. She dreamed of getting herself a new hero in the New Year. And a dog. She'd always wanted a dog. But nothing ever goes according to plan... * * * * * JILL MANSELL: "Susan Alison has written a lovely, quirky romp packed with off-the-wall characters - original, intriguing and great fun " * * * * *