A novel based on the loss of the steamship Forfarshire, which struck the Fern Islands on her voyage to Dundee, on the night of the 7th September 1938, and the heroic conduct of Grace Darling in rescuing the survivors.

From The New York Times bestselling author of The Girl Who Came Home comes a historical novel inspired by true events, and the extraordinary female lighthouse keepers of the past two hundred years. “They call me a heroine, but I am not deserving of such accolades. I am just an ordinary young woman who did her duty.” 1838: Northumberland, England. Longstone Lighthouse on the Farne Islands has been Grace Darling’s home for all of her twenty-two years. When she and her father rescue shipwreck survivors in a furious storm, Grace becomes celebrated throughout England, the subject of poems, ballads, and plays. But far more precious than her unsought fame is the friendship that develops between Grace and a visiting artist. Just as George Emmerson captures Grace with his brushes, she in turn captures his heart. 1938: Newport, Rhode Island. Nineteen-years-old and pregnant, Matilda Emmerson has been sent away from Ireland in disgrace. She is to stay with Harriet, a reclusive relative and assistant lighthouse keeper, until her baby is born. A discarded, half-finished portrait opens a window into Matilda’s family history. As a deadly hurricane approaches, two women, living a century apart, will be linked forever by their instinctive acts of courage and love.

The Life of Grace Darling (Illustrated) has been lovingly created over several years and features an original full size watercolour with every section of the story. 28 works in total have been created by Goldsmith's post-graduate, Moira Pagan. Moira also happens to be a relative of Grace Darling! Aimed at older children and adults alike, this factual account of the life of Grace Darling covers new areas of the story that reach way beyond just the famous sea rescue.In 1838 Grace Darling achieved worldwide acclaim for an act of outstanding courage. With her father she saved the lives of nine people on rocks off the Northumberland coast. Overnight she was declared a heroine. Awards and gifts were showered on her. .This beautifully illustrated book tells the true story of the first media celebrity, her childhood, the dramatic sea rescue, her rejection of fame, her decline in health and withdrawal from the world.This inspirational and timeless story of great courage still captures the hearts and minds of people all over the world.