Reviewed by: Barbara Buhrer, MyShelf.Com
Buy a Copy

Young Esther Doyle becomes pregnant and is abandoned by her lover. Her family finds her in disgrace and sends her to the Holy Saints Convent in Dublin. She is put to work in the convent's laundry. Observing the mistakes of the other unwed mothers, she determines to rise above this world and seek a better life for herself and her illegitimate child. She must make a heart-wrenching decision.

This is a powerful story of a young Irish woman's struggle against prejudice, intolerance and the deeds done in the name of piety and religion. It delves into her mind and thoughts as she struggles to become her own woman and to decide what is best for her baby. It is a dilemma which confronts not just her but many women worldwide. This has all been treated with sympathy and thoughtfulness and sensitivity. A beautifully written book.