Book excerpt: In the haunting era of the Second World War, Mary Wood’s stirring saga, Brighter Days Ahead, follows the journey of two courageous women, Molly and Flo, who brave the storms of life and war. Molly, hardened by the streets of London's rough East End, is kidnapped by a gang and forced into their underworld . . . her future seems bleak. Flo, an orphan turned teacher, receives an intriguing job offer – a chance to be part of the British war effort at Bletchley Park. When the threat of war looms, will the girls' friendship be enough to weather the hard times ahead? From the author of In Their Mother’s Footsteps, with Brighter Days Ahead, immerse yourself in a gripping exploration of friendship and survival during history's darkest hour.