Thursday, April 11, 1912RMS Titanic arrives at Queenstown, Co Cork, Ireland to collect those returning to America and those who wish to start a new life. On board, Gerry Walker, a stoker from Wexford heads up on deck to say a quick hello to the old country. He swears he will bring his fiancé, Jean, to Ireland to see his mam.Newlyweds, Delia and Conor Brennan are convinced they have left their … left their problems behind them.
Four young friends from Ballinasloe, Co. Galway are all set for their new adventure. Except Kate Maloney doesn’t want to leave Ireland. Cathy Madden wants to go on stage, something her serious minded brother, Seamus, will never allow. Daniel Donnelly loves Kate and intends to convince her to marry him and move to Wyoming before ship arrives in New York.
The Titanic leaves Queenstown with a ship full of dreams. All too soon, those dreams turn to nightmares.
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I’ve been a longtime fan of Rachel Wesson even since I discovered her WW2 novels. She writes fabulous historical fiction and never fails to transport you into the past with her compelling plots and unforgettable characters. “Heart of Disaster” was one of such incredibly touching, deeply tragic yet uplifting stories. In her latest work, Ms. Wesson follows the tragic voyage of the Titanic through the eyes of several different characters, which made the story even more fascinating. As the disaster strikes, she explores the depths of the human spirit and demonstrates how differently people act in times of mortal danger – some turn into heroes, some would stop at nothing to save their own lives. I also enjoyed the last few chapters in which the aftermath of the tragedy is brought to light, namely the White Star’s attempts to shift the guilt onto someone else’s shoulders. Vivid and beautifully written, “Heart of Disaster” is a true must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction. Highly recommended! (Prepare some tissues though – most likely you’ll be crying)
Heart of Disaster by Rachel Wesson
5 Stars
Mar 7
I just love Rachel’s writing! I stayed up all night reading this book. I couldn’t put it down. I fell in love with the plight of these characters as they seek a brighter future in America.
This book is based on the sinking of the Titanic, so it’s enthralling and emotional, devastating and hopeful! I could envision many of the scenes and hear the sounds as they fought to survive!
I loved how we got an epilogue, so to speak, for each of the major players at the end.
I would have liked to learn more about Cathy’s updated situation.
I enjoyed the court room scenes at the end, because it kind of settles the issues a bit.
Knowing things changed because of this incident gives you hope. Knowing people struggled to tell the truth or obey orders and keep their jobs is human!
I hope there’s a sequel! And I would love for this one to someday become an audiobook!
This is a great Titanic story. It is written from the point of view of a couple of different characters. There are Kate, Cathy, Daniel and Seamus who wants to leave Ireland to build a new life in America. And Delia who got married to her true love Conor and they are running away from her horrible aunt . And Jerry who is one of the workers on the Titanic. You know by forehand not everyone will survive. You will sympathize with them all while asking yourself What would I have done if I was on the Titanic.
I loved the story, it was romantic and dramatic and I couldn’t put it down.
Want to read a gripping story about the lives of those involved in the era of the Titanic? This is the book for you. Kate Maloney was headed for a new life in America; her friend, Cathy Madden was going with her; and, friends Daniel and Seamus, were sailing too. Some of those boarding the ship, had friends and family in America who had gone years before. This was a comfort to the families left behind in Ireland. The trip, it’s pitfall, the heartaches, and the people met on the journey is the story in this book. The writing is excellent and I felt I was on the trip with the group of immigrants that looked forward to a better life. Extremely interesting and informational Authors Notes at the end were perfect. Thanks for a great read.