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The Irish Orphan's Secret

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Book 1 of The Irish Orphan Series

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Pub Date Mar 17 2026 | Archive Date Mar 17 2026


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Description

With trembling hands, Caitlin’s beloved grandmother presses a faded photograph into her palm. “I need answers before I die,” she whispers. “Will you go to Ireland, and find out the truth?”

Ninety-one-year-old Bridget has spent her life believing she was unwanted, abandoned as a baby by a mother who never loved her. Now, she has learned she had a brother she never knew existed—and the nuns lied about everything.

Unable to deny her Grammy’s emotional plea, Caitlin travels to the windswept Irish coast, a place of breathtaking beauty and painful history. There she begins to unearth Bridget’s mother’s story—a tale more heartbreaking than she could ever have imagined.

A century earlier, Ellen McGrath walks a dangerous line as Ireland’s turbulent fight for independence intensifies. When her best friend and brothers are drawn into the struggle, Ellen is forced to choose between protecting those she loves and preserving her own future—a choice that will tear her family apart.

A heart-wrenching tale of betrayal, family secrets and the bonds that connect us across the decades by USA Today bestselling author Rachel Wesson. Set against the backdrop of the Irish War of Independence and delving into the dark history of the infamous Mother and Baby homes, this gripping dual-timeline novel is perfect for fans of Jean Grainger and Ellen Marie Wiseman.

With trembling hands, Caitlin’s beloved grandmother presses a faded photograph into her palm. “I need answers before I die,” she whispers. “Will you go to Ireland, and find out the truth?”

...


Advance Praise

What readers say about Rachel Wesson’s novels:

“One of my favourite authors… she can make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Hands down the best book I’ve read all year… I found myself holding my breath… Please read this book… you won’t be sorry.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“A must-read. A story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“A riveting novel that beautifully captures the essence of bravery, compassion, and resilience.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Wow, what a read. Full of emotion, excitement and sadness.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Beautiful… I could not put this book down… an inspiration.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

What readers say about Rachel Wesson’s novels:

“One of my favourite authors… she can make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Hands down the best book I’ve read all year…...


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ISBN 9781837002931
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