Precious Time

An Uplifting Journey of Second Chances

Precious Time by Erica James (2002, Orion) is a touching novel about love, loss, and the courage to embrace life’s unexpected moments. Set against the rolling hills of the English countryside, this story follows three characters whose lives intersect in ways they never imagined.

Three Lives, One Moment

Fiona, a successful magazine editor, seems to have it all—until a sudden health scare forces her to reevaluate her priorities. Owen, a brooding landscape gardener, is haunted by grief and convinced he’s beyond redemption. And Lily, a bright fourteen-year-old coping with her own family upheaval, is desperate for stability. When their paths cross at an inherited rural retreat, each discovers that healing often arrives in the most unexpected company.

Themes of Renewal and Connection

Erica James explores the fragility of time and the power of human connection. Through moments of laughter, heartbreak, and quiet reflection, she shows how opening your heart can turn regrets into precious opportunities.

A Celebration of Life’s Simple Joys

From early-morning dewdrops on wildflowers to evenings by the wood-burning stove, James’s vivid descriptions ground this tale in sensory detail. Readers will savor the warmth of newfound friendships and the thrill of romance rediscovered.

Why You’ll Love It

Perfect for fans of heartfelt women’s fiction and serene countryside settings, Precious Time reminds us that every moment counts—and that sometimes the greatest gift is the time we share.