Careful who you mess with!

This pacy debut novel by G.I. James revolves around the perspective of a mixed-race adoptee growing up in the North West of England during the 1970s. Our hero, Harriet Bush, grapples with the scars of her trans-racial adoption; a catastrophic betrayal that stifles her trust in others and precludes any sense of her belonging. A narrative that will resonate with adoptees and an eye-opening story for those who are not.

“A compelling force of nature that kept me turning the pages.” 📖

The Cambrian News

Entering adulthood, Harri’s quest for love and happiness has already spiralled into tragedy and chaos. However, unexpected hope emerges in her controversial business, in her friendships, and in her family relationships. But can Harriet really succeed in finding love or happiness without first confronting the unrelenting grief and bubbling anger that have so defined her existence?

Love and Happiness is a poignant exploration of the destructive nature of adoption, the relentless pursuit of identity, and the struggle to find a place in a world that feels untrustworthy and unwelcoming. Will Harriet be able to reclaim her sense of self and find the affirming love she so desperately seeks, or will the shadows of her past consume her?

Order Love and Happiness from your favourite book retailer or download a Kindle Edition.

ISBN: 978-1-0681765-0-0

Ebook ISBN: 978-1-0681765-2-4

Art belongs to humans. 🎨

When we began preparing Love and Happiness for publication, we knew a stock image or an AI algorithm wouldn’t suffice. Harriet’s traumatic journey through 1970s and 80s Britain, marked by the complexities of adoption and sibling loyalty, demanded original authentic soulful cover art. We turned to the craft of the incredible Jasmine Violet Art.

As an artisan press, we believe the relationship between author and artist is sacred. Jasmine’s commission captures the precise tone of Harriet’s bookish isolation, providing a tactile invitation to the reader before they turn the first page.

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Bookshops, libraries, and retailers can secure copies of Love and Happiness from M2M Books’ distributor, the Books Council of Wales: