Gordon and Maxine's dreams of a blissful life of gardening, pub lunches and quiet retirement in the charming market town of Little Woodford are ruined when three very demanding members of their family come home.

First up is daughter Abi and her unassuming partner Marcus. Abi is determined to move back to Little Woodford and only the perfect house will do. What could be better than parking with Mum and Dad, while she drives local estate agents and builders mad?

Then comes Judith, Maxine's high-flying sister. A crisis has driven her, sobbing, to Little Woodford. Surely Gordon and Maxine have room for her to stay while she sorts things out?

Lastly, the mother-in-law from hell, Anthea, has a fall in her rambling old house. After a spell in hospital, it looks as if there is only one place she can go...

Never mind bliss, there is no peace to be had! Can Gordon and Maxine find a way to restore harmony in their home?

Catherine Jones lives in Thame, where she is an independent Councillor. She is the author of eighteen novels, including the Soldiers' Wives series, which she wrote under the pseudonym Fiona Field.