The Irish Orphan’s Prayer

When a frail elderly woman with tears in her fierce grey-blue eyes whispers “find my girl”, former detective Caitlin O’Shea can’t walk away.

Aileen has spent a lifetime inside Ireland’s institutions, declared delusional by every doctor who ever treated her. But Aileen knows the truth: her baby didn’t die. She was taken.

In 1963, as a young American president waved to cheering crowds outside a convent wall, a midwife named Christina made a promise she would spend the rest of her life trying to keep. Her story – and Aileen’s – will prove more devastating, and more extraordinary, than Caitlin could ever have imagined. A story of breathtaking cruelty, quiet courage, and a love so fierce it survived six decades of silence.

This powerful tribute to stolen children, heartbroken mothers, and the women who refuse to forget them, is based on real events and will captivate fans of Jean Grainger, Rhys Bowen and Ellen Marie Wiseman.

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, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“What an amazing story... exciting and page-turning. I urge you to read it.” 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, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“A beautifully written historical novel that inspired and deeply moved me.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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

“Incredibly moving... I loved this.” Reader review, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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