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:

“The saddest story ever, I defy you to read it without tears! It will stay with you long after it’s finished. I loved it, read long into the night.” Reader review, 5 stars

“The first book in the series was so amazing I didn’t think I would love another book more. I was wrong. What an emotional journey.” Reader review, 5 stars

“An incredibly powerful and emotional read that completely pulled me in from the very first page. The characters felt so real that I experienced every heartbreak, every moment of hope, and every triumph right alongside them. The author’s portrayal of the unimaginable suffering endured by mothers in Ireland’s Mother and Baby Homes was heartbreaking, and knowing the story is rooted in real events made it even more impactful.” Reader review, 5 stars

“This is an emotional, powerful, and thought-provoking read that broke my heart.” Reader review, 5 stars

“One of my very favorite authors, Rachel Wesson has produced another amazing and riveting story which exposes the unimaginable cruelty of these homes, and the enduring resilience of the human spirit.” Reader review, 5 stars

“One of the most compelling books I have read in a long time. I couldn’t put the book down.” Reader review, 5 stars

“Such a moving story of heartbroken mothers and stolen children. It is a beautifully written story of compassion, bravery, strength, and love. I highly recommend this book.” Reader review, 5 stars

“A heart-wrenching storyline. Yes, I cried and yes there are moments of smiles... it will remain on your mind and in your heart for quite some time.” Reader review, 5 stars

“Heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time... The dual timeline pulls the story together beautifully. An amazing story, have the tissues handy, you will need them.” Reader review, 5 stars