Two of Beryl Matthew’s novels, HOLD ON TO YOUR DREAMS and THE FORGOTTEN FAMILY were published in the UK yesterday by Allison & Busby. The books are available as paperbacks and ebook. Beryl has previously published 12 novels in hardback with Severn House.

Beryl Matthews is an accomplished novelist, writing in the genre that Catherine Cookson made her own, but with stories set in London. As a young girl her ambition was to become a professional singer but lack of funds drove her into an office, where she worked her way up from tea-girl to credit controller. After she retired, she began to pursue her dream of becoming a published author.

HOLD ON TO YOUR DREAMS is the story of Gertrude Melrose. She is concerned for her brother, Edward, who seems intent on squandering his inheritance at the gaming tables. Her fears are justified when Edward's debts threaten to destroy the Melrose family's prosperity.

THE FORGOTTEN FAMILY is set in Whitechapel, London 1890. Queenie Bonner is only two when she is taken from her large family in the slums to a big house in the country. She is frightened and confused, begging to be taken back, but she is told that this is now her home. As time passes Eleanor forgets about her other family. But fifteen years later, she sets about tracing her forgotten family. The search holds pleasure, distress and even danger as she discovers what has happened to her siblings over the years. Eight are traced, but one remains missing. She knows she will never rest until he is found.

Allison & Busby are giving these re-issued novels a fresh cover style, and are committed to publishing at least 4 more titles.