A compelling story set between Ireland and America. I particularly enjoyed the blend of fact and fiction with its links to real life past events, namely the Titanic. We all know what happens on that fateful maiden voyage with the Titanic, however this story focuses on the aftermath and devastation of the Titanic and how that impacted on the two sisters.
I particularly liked the alternating first person point of view between Nora and Delia and reading more about each character. Sisters Nora and Delia Sweeney are diametrically opposed characters partly due to their mothers overbearing influence and dislike for Delia. As a result, the two sisters did not have much a relationship with each other or sisterly bond due to Nora wanting to stay in her mother’s favour. Initially, Nora comes across as a spoilt and self-centred individual with only a self-interest in marrying a rich husband and wearing pretty dresses. Whereas Delia appears shy and timid, studious and has compassion for others. I strongly resonate with Delia’s character and felt compassion towards her and her mother’s constant criticisms.
They are both given a chance of a lifetime to start a new life out in America and escape their humble dwellings. Nora is to become a governess for a rich family, whilst Delia is to be a lowly maid. However, when tragedy strikes and the titanic sinks, Nora is presumed missing. This results in a small misunderstanding and a case of mistaken identity leading to Delia taking Nora’s place.
I liked how the characters developed throughout the book and especially how both sisters were changed in different ways after the trauma of titanic sinking and surviving it. It was interesting seeing this impact on their relationships with each other and others afterwards. I found this book very emotive and had lots of feelings towards each character.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading historical fiction or who likes a story about the complexities of relationships and finding one’s true self in the face of adversity.
I particularly liked the alternating first person point of view between Nora and Delia and reading more about each character. Sisters Nora and Delia Sweeney are diametrically opposed characters partly due to their mothers overbearing influence and dislike for Delia. As a result, the two sisters did not have much a relationship with each other or sisterly bond due to Nora wanting to stay in her mother’s favour. Initially, Nora comes across as a spoilt and self-centred individual with only a self-interest in marrying a rich husband and wearing pretty dresses. Whereas Delia appears shy and timid, studious and has compassion for others. I strongly resonate with Delia’s character and felt compassion towards her and her mother’s constant criticisms.
They are both given a chance of a lifetime to start a new life out in America and escape their humble dwellings. Nora is to become a governess for a rich family, whilst Delia is to be a lowly maid. However, when tragedy strikes and the titanic sinks, Nora is presumed missing. This results in a small misunderstanding and a case of mistaken identity leading to Delia taking Nora’s place.
I liked how the characters developed throughout the book and especially how both sisters were changed in different ways after the trauma of titanic sinking and surviving it. It was interesting seeing this impact on their relationships with each other and others afterwards. I found this book very emotive and had lots of feelings towards each character.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading historical fiction or who likes a story about the complexities of relationships and finding one’s true self in the face of adversity.