“This is a hauntingly beautiful novel. The painful story of Judith and Jimmy is told with deep sensitivity in lyrical prose that was a joy to absorb, and the plot unfolds at a pace that keeps you turning the pages – such a winning combination.” —Imogen Clark, million copy selling author of Impossible to Forget

“Evocative, emotional and original, every word has been expertly crafted.” —Catherine Isaac, author of The World at My Feet

“When I First Held You is a wonderful kaleidoscope of passion, love, grief and misunderstandings. Heart-breaking and yet hauntingly beautiful... A stunning book – one to read and re-read many times.” —Celia Anderson, bestselling author of 59 Memory Lane

“I loved this gorgeous, poignant novel about loss and love and how over time we are both broken and mended.” —Sara Sheridan, author of The Fair Botanists

“Compelling...A story of broken dreams and unexpected healing. You'll want to read this.” —Sarah Ward, author of The Shrouded Path

“It is brilliantly written, so many brilliant phrases which made me smile…I shall keep my fingers crossed that it is a huge hit. It ought to be, it’s marvellous. I shall be recommending it to all.” —Lesley Pearse, #1 bestselling author of The Woman in the Wood

“Anstey Harris never disappoints. When I First Held You, is gripping, heart rending and extremely satisfying, from start to finish.” —Katie Fforde, bestselling author of A Wedding in Provence

“A powerful, compelling and affecting read.” —Heidi Swain, bestselling author of The Summer Fair

“This book has a very big heart. Full of hope and so beautifully observed.” —Samuel Burr, author of The Fellowship of the Puzzlemakers