The joyful, uplifting book club read for 2026 from Sunday Times bestseller Ruth Hogan
A heartwarming, redemptive story from the bestselling author of The Keeper of Lost Things and The Phoenix Ballroom, perfect for fans of Ruth Jones.

'LIFE-AFFIRMING AND FULL OF LOVE' CELIA ANDERSON
'WARM, COMPASSIONATE, WITTY' MIKE GAYLE
'HEARTWARMING' Woman's Own

A TOP TEN KINDLE BESTSELLER

Every flame tells a story.

George McGlory has been struggling since the death of his beloved wife, Audrey. But when he witnesses a public health funeral - with no flowers and no mourners - he is inspired to create The Light a Candle Society.

As George and his friends join together to celebrate forgotten lives, their care, compassion, humour and friendship become gifts not only to the people they are remembering, but to each other.

And the kindness of strangers gives them strength to confront the secrets of their own histories, forging joyful and unexpected new connections.

Praise for Ruth Hogan:
'Magical . uplifting ' ANTON DU BEKE
'Told with wit and heart' BETH MORREY
'Every page is a joy' PIP WILLIAMS
'Delightfully uplifting' WOMAN'S OWN
'Full of hope' PRIMA

Readers LOVE The Light a Candle Society
'Wow . this book is so emotional, uplifting and powerful' *****
'The story just grips you. Read it.' *****
'Such a powerful read. It will stay with me forever' *****
'A poignant, heartwarming story' *****