The world was catching its breath from a war that had redrawn borders and left too many empty chairs at too many tables. It was the 1950’s. Girls donned poodle skirts; boys sported crew cuts. People sought comfort in familiar routines, traditional roles, and black and white images from a box called television.
Not Cate Clark.
Restless and searching for something more, Cate leaves behind an Ireland still scarred from its struggle for independence and steps into the promise of New York City. But before she finds her footing, word from home calls her back to Dublin-her mother is gravely ill.
Returning to the world she thought she’d left behind, Cate is confronted by the heartbreak of love and loss for her country, her family, and a man she can never forget. When her mother dies, Cate returns to New York.
It’s on that voyage across the Atlantic that she meets survivors of Ireland’s Magdalene Laundries-women whose pain, courage, and strength spark something deep within her. Inspired by their stories, Cate sets out to create a sanctuary for young women silenced by injustices hidden behind the veils of religion and politics.
Spanning the decade and two cities separated by an ocean, Finding Herself is a sweeping tale of love, loss, and redemption. It is a story of resilience, friendship, and the courage it takes to lead your life and shape your own destiny.
It is Cate’s story.
ISBNs
978-1-63777-792-3
978-1-63777-793-0 / 978-1-63777-794-7
Genres
Historical Fiction – Ireland mid 20th century
Women’s Fiction
392 pages
Imprint: Emperor Books
Language: English
Following a career that led her from managing colleges to Fortune-500 companies, to major international law firms, award winning author Maureen Reid began writing the kind of novels she loves to read. Blending fiction with historical facts, Maureen is inspired to write about strong women who by sheer will and spirit become the best that they can be. A storyteller, Maureen’s characters have been described as flawed but determined as they try to make a difference in their lives and in the lives of others. The issues they confront are as current as today’s headlines.
Reviews
Finding Herself swept me away from the first page. Cate Clark’s story of courage, love, and loss between Ireland and New York is both intimate and epic. The historical detail is vivid, but it’s the emotional truth that lingers. I couldn’t put it down.
This book captures a moment in history with grace and authenticity. Cate’s determination to forge her own path, even when heartbreak calls her home, is deeply inspiring. The writing is lyrical and the characters feel utterly real. A must-read for fans of strong female protagonists and historical fiction.
From the cobblestone streets of Dublin to the bustling promise of New York, Finding Herself takes readers on a journey of self-discovery that resonates long after the last page. Cate’s compassion and resilience—especially her response to the Magdalene survivors—moved me to tears.