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A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice
Based on the remarkable true story of the Carpathia-- the only ship and her legendary captain who answered the distress call of the sinking Titanic . Just after midnight on April 15, 1912, the passenger steamship Carpathia receives a distress signal from the largest passenger liner ever built, RMS Titanic, which is on its maiden voyage from Southampton, England, to New York. Captain Arthur Rostron is awakened to an enormous maritime emergency with little information to guide his actions in answering the call for help. Is the dire threat to the unsinkable Titanic accurate? His ship is more than four hours away; will Carpathia hold together if pushed to never-before-tested speeds? What if his ship also strikes an iceberg? How many of Titanic 's 2,200 passengers will the Carpathia be able to accommodate? And with the freezing temperatures, will there be any survivors by the time the Carpathia arrives? Kate Connolly is excited to join her sister in America and proud to be traveling on the grand Titanic , which was built in her Irish homeland. As a passenger in third-class accommodations, she is among the last to receive instruction and help after Titanic hits an iceberg. Among the chaos of abandoning ship, the chances of her securing a spot in a lifeboat appear grim. With the help of several men, also from Ireland, Kate finally reaches the upper decks and feels lucky to board Lifeboat 13, although no one knows if or when a rescue ship will come. She fears the icy water and wonders if they'll all freeze to death. After seeing their magnificent ship submerge into the abyss, and hearing the cries of hundreds of fellow passengers drowning, it is almost too much to bear and Kate fleetingly thinks succumbing to her ordeal is the easiest escape. Told in alternating chapters from the perspective of Captain Rostron on the Carpathia and Kate Connolly on the Titanic , this historical novel is a compelling, heart-pounding account of two eyewitnesses to an epic disaster. Rostron's heroic and compassionate leadership, his methodical preparations for rescue, and his grit and determination to act honorably and selflessly to save lives and care for the survivors, sets the course for this awe-inspiring story.
320 pages, Paperback
First published April 5, 2022
546 people are currently reading
14311 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Connolly
91 books1,244 followersI was born once upon a time, and I started making up stories right away. Eventually, I started writing them down, and never stopped! I have a day job, which gets in the way of my writing, but it pays the bills so I CAN write, so I guess that's okay! I am a bookworm, which I think is key to being a writer, and I am always looking for inspiration! I live in Indiana, am obsessed with hot chocolate, and I am on track to be the best aunt in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,180 reviews
April 6, 2022
4.5 ⭐
Everyone has heard about the tragedy of the Titanic. How many knew about the ship and crew who bravely rush towards the sea of ice to rescue her passengers?
A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice features Captain Arthur Rostron of RMS Carpathia. The Carpathia was traveling eastbound from New York to Liverpool. In the early hours of April 15, 1912 as Harold Cottam was about to rest he heard a distress signal that the Titanic hit an iceberg and was quickly sinking. The Captain who was already asleep got everyone to their post. They were four hours away and everyone gave their all that night to reach the Titanic fast without hitting any ice themselves.
Kate Connelly was a twenty-three-year-old single third-class passenger who's the "eye" of what happened on the Titanic and on lifeboat #13. What she witnessed while drifting in the frigid dark sea was something we heard before but it's agonizing all the same.
It's so difficult to put into words how much I enjoy this novel. It evokes so many emotions. The dedication of Captain Rostron and his crew is very inspirational and will stay with me for a long time.
PS. Since I can't stop thinking about Carpathia and her crew two days later, I'm bumping to it 5⭐! I changed my mind Ms. Connolly.
Thank you Shadow Mountain Publishing and NG for this ARC.
Available April 5, 2022
Everyone has heard about the tragedy of the Titanic. How many knew about the ship and crew who bravely rush towards the sea of ice to rescue her passengers?
A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice features Captain Arthur Rostron of RMS Carpathia. The Carpathia was traveling eastbound from New York to Liverpool. In the early hours of April 15, 1912 as Harold Cottam was about to rest he heard a distress signal that the Titanic hit an iceberg and was quickly sinking. The Captain who was already asleep got everyone to their post. They were four hours away and everyone gave their all that night to reach the Titanic fast without hitting any ice themselves.
Kate Connelly was a twenty-three-year-old single third-class passenger who's the "eye" of what happened on the Titanic and on lifeboat #13. What she witnessed while drifting in the frigid dark sea was something we heard before but it's agonizing all the same.
It's so difficult to put into words how much I enjoy this novel. It evokes so many emotions. The dedication of Captain Rostron and his crew is very inspirational and will stay with me for a long time.
PS. Since I can't stop thinking about Carpathia and her crew two days later, I'm bumping to it 5⭐! I changed my mind Ms. Connolly.
Thank you Shadow Mountain Publishing and NG for this ARC.
Available April 5, 2022
May 6, 2022
On April 15, 1912, Arthur Rostron, the captain of the Carpathia, is awakened and notified of a distress call from the Titanic, which has struck an iceberg and is in grave trouble. Rostron immediately begins to strategize the response of his ship, which is over four hours away. Although he is not sure of the amount of damage, he is determined to get the Carpathia to the aid of the Titanic’s passengers. Braving icebergs himself, he pushes the Carpathia to the limit in order to assist.
On the Titanic, Kate Connolly is enjoying her time in third class with newfound friends. But in the middle of the night, strange sounds lead her out into the corridor looking for answers. She eventually finds the ship is in trouble, and she has very little time to escape. Although third-class passengers are not warned or helped in any way, she manages to make it to a lifeboat, from which she watches the Titanic sink. Will rescue come in time?
In alternating chapters, we follow Captain Rostron as the Carpathia attempts a heroic rescue, and Kate Connolly as the survivors try to stay alive, praying for help. We learn of heroes like the captain, and then of others who did little or nothing to help. We suffer with the freezing and cry with the bereaved. But we also salute a man who did what he could to bring others to safety. Although there is much historical fiction out there about the sinking of the Titanic, this is a unique and inspiring look at the rescuers from the Carpathia, who managed to bring over 700 people to safety. It is also a tragic and heartbreaking look back at that terrible night. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via the Historical Novel Society. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
On the Titanic, Kate Connolly is enjoying her time in third class with newfound friends. But in the middle of the night, strange sounds lead her out into the corridor looking for answers. She eventually finds the ship is in trouble, and she has very little time to escape. Although third-class passengers are not warned or helped in any way, she manages to make it to a lifeboat, from which she watches the Titanic sink. Will rescue come in time?
In alternating chapters, we follow Captain Rostron as the Carpathia attempts a heroic rescue, and Kate Connolly as the survivors try to stay alive, praying for help. We learn of heroes like the captain, and then of others who did little or nothing to help. We suffer with the freezing and cry with the bereaved. But we also salute a man who did what he could to bring others to safety. Although there is much historical fiction out there about the sinking of the Titanic, this is a unique and inspiring look at the rescuers from the Carpathia, who managed to bring over 700 people to safety. It is also a tragic and heartbreaking look back at that terrible night. Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book from the publishers via the Historical Novel Society. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
March 7, 2022
The ship Carpathia was forever noted in history, because it was the one that picked up the survivors of the Titanic disaster and delivered them safely to New York. In this novel, the reader will be drawn into the story of what happened that April night in 1912, when the Carpathia’s Marconi operator burst into Captain Rostrom’s cabin and informed him of a distress message from Titanic. You will be inside this man’s head as he makes momentous decisions about how to best reach the Titanic. You will inwardly cheer for the crew members who follow his commands immediately without reservation.
Another voice you will hear will be that of Kate Connelly, a Third-Class passenger from the Titanic, who was among the few from steerage that made it onto a lifeboat. The reader will tour the lower compartments of the Titanic and marvel at the wonders along with her. You will share her agony from Lifeboat 13 as the Titanic sinks, and feel the urge to be busy and do something, anything, to help those survivors who have lost loved ones.
*Three weeks ago, I was standing at the very pier where the Carpathia docked, and where the Titanic was destined to do so. Reading the details of that arrival from this wonderfully written book made the memories of being in that historic place ever so special.*
No spoilers, but I learned many things about that day that I had never known before. Thanks to the author for writing this incredible novel!
*I received a digital copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*
Another voice you will hear will be that of Kate Connelly, a Third-Class passenger from the Titanic, who was among the few from steerage that made it onto a lifeboat. The reader will tour the lower compartments of the Titanic and marvel at the wonders along with her. You will share her agony from Lifeboat 13 as the Titanic sinks, and feel the urge to be busy and do something, anything, to help those survivors who have lost loved ones.
*Three weeks ago, I was standing at the very pier where the Carpathia docked, and where the Titanic was destined to do so. Reading the details of that arrival from this wonderfully written book made the memories of being in that historic place ever so special.*
No spoilers, but I learned many things about that day that I had never known before. Thanks to the author for writing this incredible novel!
*I received a digital copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.*
September 8, 2022
A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice by Rebecca Connolly. I did not enjoy this book as much as other books about the Titanic I have read. The singing was lovely though. Part of my issue is I have read it all before. There are only so many parts of this tragic accident that can be covered. It has all been covered before. There was nothing new that I noticed in the book. This is NOT a criticism to the author. She did a great job writing her book. It is me -I have read too much previously! I will look forward to reading other books by this author.
February 10, 2024
*Libby app *
Narration: pretty good 👍🏼 👌
-----
This was a good story... I knew of course Carpathia rescuing the passengers but hadn't given much thought to it.
It's hard to put my feelings into words. I really enjoyed this book and had a hard time putting it down, listening every chance I could (a break happened when my cat child died 💔).
The captain and the crew of the Carpathia deserve all the praise and I'm in awe of their actions and how everyone came together.. even giving up their own rooms and clothes for the survivors.
I did have a laugh though how the Captain handled the press on two occasions.
I would highly recommend this one. Listen to the afterword as well.
Side note: this is Christian fiction but it wasn't ever preachy.
Narration: pretty good 👍🏼 👌
-----
This was a good story... I knew of course Carpathia rescuing the passengers but hadn't given much thought to it.
It's hard to put my feelings into words. I really enjoyed this book and had a hard time putting it down, listening every chance I could (a break happened when my cat child died 💔).
The captain and the crew of the Carpathia deserve all the praise and I'm in awe of their actions and how everyone came together.. even giving up their own rooms and clothes for the survivors.
I did have a laugh though how the Captain handled the press on two occasions.
I would highly recommend this one. Listen to the afterword as well.
Side note: this is Christian fiction but it wasn't ever preachy.
February 28, 2022
April 1912
What a wonderful introduction to a new to me author!
In A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice, there are dual threads that ultimately converge. One thread is focused on the captain of the passenger steamship Carpathia: Captain Arthur Rostron. The other thread is centered on four Irish young adult women aboard the maiden voyage of the Titanic. And be still my history loving heart...so much of what is in the pages of the novel is based upon historical facts!
There are multiple novels about the Titanic. This novel provides details about the fated passenger ship, but is more focused on the Carpathia and its crew. So many fascinating details emerged in the pages. And the emotions of the passengers and crew of both ships are well described adding to the tension of the rescue.
I am so glad the author has a back list of novels. A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice is highly recommended for fans of historical fiction.
My gratitude to publisher Shadow Mountain for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
What a wonderful introduction to a new to me author!
In A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice, there are dual threads that ultimately converge. One thread is focused on the captain of the passenger steamship Carpathia: Captain Arthur Rostron. The other thread is centered on four Irish young adult women aboard the maiden voyage of the Titanic. And be still my history loving heart...so much of what is in the pages of the novel is based upon historical facts!
There are multiple novels about the Titanic. This novel provides details about the fated passenger ship, but is more focused on the Carpathia and its crew. So many fascinating details emerged in the pages. And the emotions of the passengers and crew of both ships are well described adding to the tension of the rescue.
I am so glad the author has a back list of novels. A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice is highly recommended for fans of historical fiction.
My gratitude to publisher Shadow Mountain for a complimentary NetGalley copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
October 30, 2022
An emotional read about the sinking of the Titanic, but told from the point of view of the Carpathia and 3rd class Titanic passengers. It took 2 hours and 40 minutes for the Titanic to sink, but 3.5 hours for the Carpathia to reach it. What awaits them is vividly described and I can't imagine the enormity of the undertaking it took to help the survivors. It is a story of hope and people coming together to help one another. Well written and researched.
November 21, 2022
April 15, 2022 marked the 110th annniversary of the sinking of Titanic. Perfect timing for the publication of this book. It's a good one! The author has written a heavily-researched, riveting tale that includes a re-telling of events on Titanic and - more importantly - the Carpathia, the ship that sailed to Titanic in her hour of need and rescued all the people in lifeboats.
The Titanic is firmly embedded in the minds of the masses as THE example of ocean disaster. We are forever fascinated by this tragedy. I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that her owner, the White Star Line, and her captain, John Smith, publicly claimed Titanic to be "unsinkable". Ah yes, we humans love cocky hubris chased by a shot of comeuppance. Unfortunately in this case, hubris led to (in my opinion) unforgiveable lapse of reason and the deaths of 1500+ people on Titanic. That's two-thirds of the ship's passengers.
Okay I digress. In this novel we get the perspective of Kate Connolly, a third-class passenger on Titanic and Arthur Rostron, Captain of the Carpathia - a ship who somehow received Titanic's distress call at what should have been outside the range of the Marconi radio and the ONLY ship who raced to her rescue. The author accurately describes events through each character's eyes. The characters are based on real people. The story is well told. I really liked all the characters and became emotionally invested in their stories. From beginning to end, the story pulled me in and kept me. I listened to the audiobook and the two narrators were fantastic!
The story of the Carpathia is often overlooked, and the author pays homage to her brave and effective crew and passengers during the rescue. Captain Rostron takes no responsibility at all for the success of the rescue. Instead he repeatedly praises his radio operator and crew for identifying the call, taking it seriously and doing everything necessary to bring the survivors to safety. He also refused to throw Captain Smith under the bus for Titanic's sinking, saying he could not know what happened and would not speculate. A true, modest hero whose story is often lost in the sensationalism of Titanic.
Anyway, enough of my boringness. Is that a word? If you are as fascinated by the Titanic story as I am - read this book! You'll love it!
The Titanic is firmly embedded in the minds of the masses as THE example of ocean disaster. We are forever fascinated by this tragedy. I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that her owner, the White Star Line, and her captain, John Smith, publicly claimed Titanic to be "unsinkable". Ah yes, we humans love cocky hubris chased by a shot of comeuppance. Unfortunately in this case, hubris led to (in my opinion) unforgiveable lapse of reason and the deaths of 1500+ people on Titanic. That's two-thirds of the ship's passengers.
Okay I digress. In this novel we get the perspective of Kate Connolly, a third-class passenger on Titanic and Arthur Rostron, Captain of the Carpathia - a ship who somehow received Titanic's distress call at what should have been outside the range of the Marconi radio and the ONLY ship who raced to her rescue. The author accurately describes events through each character's eyes. The characters are based on real people. The story is well told. I really liked all the characters and became emotionally invested in their stories. From beginning to end, the story pulled me in and kept me. I listened to the audiobook and the two narrators were fantastic!
The story of the Carpathia is often overlooked, and the author pays homage to her brave and effective crew and passengers during the rescue. Captain Rostron takes no responsibility at all for the success of the rescue. Instead he repeatedly praises his radio operator and crew for identifying the call, taking it seriously and doing everything necessary to bring the survivors to safety. He also refused to throw Captain Smith under the bus for Titanic's sinking, saying he could not know what happened and would not speculate. A true, modest hero whose story is often lost in the sensationalism of Titanic.
Anyway, enough of my boringness. Is that a word? If you are as fascinated by the Titanic story as I am - read this book! You'll love it!
April 2, 2023
A dual timeline chronicling the Titanic and RMS Carpathia.
After receiving the distress call from Titanic, RMS Carpathia rushes to the aid of rescuing the stranded occupants taking on as many as they can. Captain Arthur Rostron and his crew work diligently to save the tragedy weary, keeping them warm, feeding them, and having funeral services for their lost loved ones at sea.
Kate Conolly is a third-class survivor of the Titanic. She has lost friends but she is very grateful for all that the crew is doing for her, and she is very aware and grateful.
A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice was an eye-opener for me as I have never heard of the RMS Carpathia and I suspect was overshadowed because of the tragic tragedy that was the Titanic. At times, I thought I could feel the dampness of the sea as they rowed through the darkness of the night and didn’t know (and feared) if anyone would save them, or if they too would find a grave in the sea, like the others who weren’t so fortunate.
Kate Connolly and Captain Rostron were the two main characters and though they don’t indirectly interact with each other, it clearly shows both sides. The choices they made because of this tragic incident changed so many lives. Recommended. My gratitude to Shadow Mountain and Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
After receiving the distress call from Titanic, RMS Carpathia rushes to the aid of rescuing the stranded occupants taking on as many as they can. Captain Arthur Rostron and his crew work diligently to save the tragedy weary, keeping them warm, feeding them, and having funeral services for their lost loved ones at sea.
Kate Conolly is a third-class survivor of the Titanic. She has lost friends but she is very grateful for all that the crew is doing for her, and she is very aware and grateful.
A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice was an eye-opener for me as I have never heard of the RMS Carpathia and I suspect was overshadowed because of the tragic tragedy that was the Titanic. At times, I thought I could feel the dampness of the sea as they rowed through the darkness of the night and didn’t know (and feared) if anyone would save them, or if they too would find a grave in the sea, like the others who weren’t so fortunate.
Kate Connolly and Captain Rostron were the two main characters and though they don’t indirectly interact with each other, it clearly shows both sides. The choices they made because of this tragic incident changed so many lives. Recommended. My gratitude to Shadow Mountain and Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
January 18, 2022
This was one of those books that I plowed through in the course of a night when I really settled down to read it. Have read many Titanic accounts and but I have been waiting for a book like this from the perspective of the Carpathia, so I was very excited to spot this and it was truly what I have been waiting for.
Told through the eyes of Captain Rostron who navigated the RMS Carpathia on that fateful night the Titanic went down, the story is a mix of emotions, sadness and determination of a man who was powerless to help many more of the victims of Titanic as he risked the lives of his own crew and passengers to assist in the rescue. Also told is the story of Titanic passenger Catherine Connolly, a young woman who left Ireland to meet up with her sister in New York and start a new life. Kate tells the tale of befriending another group of young women on their way to start anew when tragedy strikes and their hopes and dreams quickly turn into terror and fighting to survive. Most of us know about Titanic's tragic end and of all the people who perished but this book had a depth of emotions that you can feel through the eyes of Captain Rostron and young Kate at least for me it did, I was totally immersed in the storyline that I had to finish it last night. This was totally awesome. Recommended!
Thanks so much to author Rebecca Connolly and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this fantastic book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Told through the eyes of Captain Rostron who navigated the RMS Carpathia on that fateful night the Titanic went down, the story is a mix of emotions, sadness and determination of a man who was powerless to help many more of the victims of Titanic as he risked the lives of his own crew and passengers to assist in the rescue. Also told is the story of Titanic passenger Catherine Connolly, a young woman who left Ireland to meet up with her sister in New York and start a new life. Kate tells the tale of befriending another group of young women on their way to start anew when tragedy strikes and their hopes and dreams quickly turn into terror and fighting to survive. Most of us know about Titanic's tragic end and of all the people who perished but this book had a depth of emotions that you can feel through the eyes of Captain Rostron and young Kate at least for me it did, I was totally immersed in the storyline that I had to finish it last night. This was totally awesome. Recommended!
Thanks so much to author Rebecca Connolly and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this fantastic book in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 14, 2022
110 years! That’s how many years it has been since the fateful and tragic sinking of the unsinkable Titanic. I loved that author Rebecca Connolly and her publisher released this beautifully powerful book around the anniversary of that sorrowful and unbelievable night.
If you enjoy historical fiction, especially because of all that you can and will learn about historical moments and facts, this book is or you. The author did an amazing job researching and studying and learning about the people involved in this tragic moment. Make sure that you read her author’s notes at the end of the book. So fascinating. And now I want to go visit this Titanic memorial/museum that she talked about.
I’ve always been fascinated and held in reverence what happened to these people, especially the survivors. Unfortunately, I honestly never thought about the ship, captain, passengers, crew of the ship that answered the call for help from the Titanic. Sitting here, writing this review and my thoughts and thinking back on this book and what I read about these many individuals, I have chills and tears. None of us can truly understand or imagine what happened. But we can have a better understanding through their words and the records kept. How Rebecca Connolly wrote and portrayed them in this novel was truly moving, inspirational and very emotional. It made me think about and hope that someday whatever I am faced with, I can rise to the need of those around me and that we can rally and support and help and care and be better for what we experience.
I had tears throughout the book, but nothing moved me more than the scene when the Carpathia comes into port in New York City. Oh my heart! The tears were flowing, there were some sobs. My heart ached for these families waiting and hoping against all hope that their loved ones had been returned among the survivors. The reverence for those lost. The sorrow. The unity. So many emotions.
I would love to tell you so much more about this book. I’m sure everyone has their own knowledge of the Titanic but this is something you need to read to experience and understand and feel. I’m so grateful to the author for all the time and research and writing and emotions and understanding that she put into this powerful, poignant and inspiring book.
Let us not forget that we all need compassion and love and strength from each other throughout our struggles and trials and sometimes tragedies in life.
Content: Clean. We all know what happened to the Titanic and the loss of many lives. This book portrays in a very respectful way, the sinking of the ship, the deaths of passengers (not graphic), the rescuing of freezing individuals, the emotions and grief and despair.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
If you enjoy historical fiction, especially because of all that you can and will learn about historical moments and facts, this book is or you. The author did an amazing job researching and studying and learning about the people involved in this tragic moment. Make sure that you read her author’s notes at the end of the book. So fascinating. And now I want to go visit this Titanic memorial/museum that she talked about.
I’ve always been fascinated and held in reverence what happened to these people, especially the survivors. Unfortunately, I honestly never thought about the ship, captain, passengers, crew of the ship that answered the call for help from the Titanic. Sitting here, writing this review and my thoughts and thinking back on this book and what I read about these many individuals, I have chills and tears. None of us can truly understand or imagine what happened. But we can have a better understanding through their words and the records kept. How Rebecca Connolly wrote and portrayed them in this novel was truly moving, inspirational and very emotional. It made me think about and hope that someday whatever I am faced with, I can rise to the need of those around me and that we can rally and support and help and care and be better for what we experience.
I had tears throughout the book, but nothing moved me more than the scene when the Carpathia comes into port in New York City. Oh my heart! The tears were flowing, there were some sobs. My heart ached for these families waiting and hoping against all hope that their loved ones had been returned among the survivors. The reverence for those lost. The sorrow. The unity. So many emotions.
I would love to tell you so much more about this book. I’m sure everyone has their own knowledge of the Titanic but this is something you need to read to experience and understand and feel. I’m so grateful to the author for all the time and research and writing and emotions and understanding that she put into this powerful, poignant and inspiring book.
Let us not forget that we all need compassion and love and strength from each other throughout our struggles and trials and sometimes tragedies in life.
Content: Clean. We all know what happened to the Titanic and the loss of many lives. This book portrays in a very respectful way, the sinking of the ship, the deaths of passengers (not graphic), the rescuing of freezing individuals, the emotions and grief and despair.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
May 16, 2022
Very very low 2 stars. As someone who's read a ton on the Titanic and been to the Belfast museum that inspired this book, I was so excited to read it especially getting a new perspective from the Carpathia. However, it felt like this was written by someone in middle school with no emotions, characterization, or plot building. The author used real life passengers as her characters, but there was no distinguishing any one person from another. Additionally I found it very hard to believe that a group of third class women were able to very easily just walk up to the deck and get right on a life boat - where was the fear, the struggle, the panic? Titanic was such a horrible tragedy and this book showed none of that.
I loved the idea of this book but am extremely disappointed by the execution.
I loved the idea of this book but am extremely disappointed by the execution.
April 6, 2022
Another fantastic historical fiction book for the WIN! Historical fiction is honestly one of my favorite genres because I love learning about events in history in a more story like fashion. Everyone knows about the Titanic, but not everyone knows about the Carpathia and it's captain and crew who saved the survivors of the Titanic. I surely didn't but I'm so glad I had this opportunity to learn about it here. Captain Rostron and his crew were ordinary people who did an extraordinary thing. It deserves being known and remembered.
I loved the alternating perspectives of Arthur Rostron and Kate. Kate was on the Titanic and having her viewpoint was so important to the story. It gave both sides to this story feeling and depth.
After finishing this book my husband asked me how it was. Boy, did he get an earful because I wanted him to know all about the Carpathia too. I know the story of the Titanic is horrific but it was nice to read about the good people who worked so hard to help and make a difference in the lives of the survivors. Just over 700 of them.
The author does a follow up after the story so we know what happened to the main characters, who were based off real people. That was fun to read too.
I really loved this book. Can you tell?! 😁 This is one I will be recommending to historical fiction lovers. I love the cover too.
Content: death, peril.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I loved the alternating perspectives of Arthur Rostron and Kate. Kate was on the Titanic and having her viewpoint was so important to the story. It gave both sides to this story feeling and depth.
After finishing this book my husband asked me how it was. Boy, did he get an earful because I wanted him to know all about the Carpathia too. I know the story of the Titanic is horrific but it was nice to read about the good people who worked so hard to help and make a difference in the lives of the survivors. Just over 700 of them.
The author does a follow up after the story so we know what happened to the main characters, who were based off real people. That was fun to read too.
I really loved this book. Can you tell?! 😁 This is one I will be recommending to historical fiction lovers. I love the cover too.
Content: death, peril.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 8, 2022
4.5 Stars
He never hesitates….. In A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice, Captain Arthur Rostron is decisive and never hesitates to do the right thing.
Some people run toward danger. On April 15, 1912, Arthur Rostron, captain of the Carpathia, hears a distress call from the Titanic. The captain answers the call at great risk to his ship and his passengers’ discomfort and doesn’t hesitate to order a change of course and prepare for a rescue. This is not without risk because he will be heading into the same icy waters that damaged the Titanic. Kate Connolly is a third-class passenger on the Titanic and among the last to secure a spot on a lifeboat. She watches in horror as the Titanic sinks and hears the cries of people in the water. Kate and other rescued passengers board the Carpathia. A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice is told from both their perspectives in alternating chapters.
The story of the sinking of the Titanic is a familiar story, and most of us have probably seen the movie. However, I have never read a story about the ship that rescued the survivors until now. Told from two perspectives (a passenger on the Titanic and the captain of the Carpathia), the rescue was the most compelling and fascinating part of the story for me. It took a great deal of courage for Captain Rostron to attempt a rescue in the same dark, frigid, icy waters that damaged the Titanic. I appreciate hearing about the risk it involved and about his loyal and competent crew. Unsung heroes.
It’s not a coincidence that the author’s surname matches that of a rescued passenger, Kate Connolly. The author, Rebecca Connolly, deliberately chose a name from the survivor’s list that matched her own.
I love that the author explores the captain’s inner turmoil as he weighs his moral and ethical choices and leans heavily on his faith. For me, this is the most compelling part of the story. I understand why we needed a passenger’s perspective, but I was always eager to return to the Carpathia’s perspective as the passengers sacrifice heat (turned off to give more coal to the engines), share their own clothing, give up their leisure space, etc. Captain Rostron manages to balance the logistics of the rescue as well as his own passengers’ physical and emotional concerns. I love that his crew members are loyal and perform as a team, It’s truly an example of leadership and doing the “right thing.”
I only wish that the author hadn’t dropped the storyline of the boy that Julia took with her in the rescue boat. She promises his dad that she will look after him and after they boarded the Carpathia, this thread is dropped. I think that is a missed opportunity for a poignant storyline, and it distracted me a bit because I kept wondering about him.
I’m enthusiastically recommending this compelling account of the Titanic tragedy from the rescue perspective. Fans of stories about inspirational people and unsung heroes will find the story riveting. Book clubs might enjoy this unique perspective of a familiar event and rich discussion possibilities.
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
He never hesitates….. In A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice, Captain Arthur Rostron is decisive and never hesitates to do the right thing.
Some people run toward danger. On April 15, 1912, Arthur Rostron, captain of the Carpathia, hears a distress call from the Titanic. The captain answers the call at great risk to his ship and his passengers’ discomfort and doesn’t hesitate to order a change of course and prepare for a rescue. This is not without risk because he will be heading into the same icy waters that damaged the Titanic. Kate Connolly is a third-class passenger on the Titanic and among the last to secure a spot on a lifeboat. She watches in horror as the Titanic sinks and hears the cries of people in the water. Kate and other rescued passengers board the Carpathia. A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice is told from both their perspectives in alternating chapters.
The story of the sinking of the Titanic is a familiar story, and most of us have probably seen the movie. However, I have never read a story about the ship that rescued the survivors until now. Told from two perspectives (a passenger on the Titanic and the captain of the Carpathia), the rescue was the most compelling and fascinating part of the story for me. It took a great deal of courage for Captain Rostron to attempt a rescue in the same dark, frigid, icy waters that damaged the Titanic. I appreciate hearing about the risk it involved and about his loyal and competent crew. Unsung heroes.
It’s not a coincidence that the author’s surname matches that of a rescued passenger, Kate Connolly. The author, Rebecca Connolly, deliberately chose a name from the survivor’s list that matched her own.
I love that the author explores the captain’s inner turmoil as he weighs his moral and ethical choices and leans heavily on his faith. For me, this is the most compelling part of the story. I understand why we needed a passenger’s perspective, but I was always eager to return to the Carpathia’s perspective as the passengers sacrifice heat (turned off to give more coal to the engines), share their own clothing, give up their leisure space, etc. Captain Rostron manages to balance the logistics of the rescue as well as his own passengers’ physical and emotional concerns. I love that his crew members are loyal and perform as a team, It’s truly an example of leadership and doing the “right thing.”
I only wish that the author hadn’t dropped the storyline of the boy that Julia took with her in the rescue boat. She promises his dad that she will look after him and after they boarded the Carpathia, this thread is dropped. I think that is a missed opportunity for a poignant storyline, and it distracted me a bit because I kept wondering about him.
I’m enthusiastically recommending this compelling account of the Titanic tragedy from the rescue perspective. Fans of stories about inspirational people and unsung heroes will find the story riveting. Book clubs might enjoy this unique perspective of a familiar event and rich discussion possibilities.
For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.
April 7, 2022
Based on the true story of the Carpathia who rushed to save the Titanic and the survivors. Told in 2 person perspective the book follows the captain of the Carpathia and a woman who is in the third class on the Titanic and their experience through this ordeal. I listened to the book on audiobook and the narrators were so boring I fell asleep a few times trying to listening to it. The stories were important but this book as a whole was very dry and flat. I hate to say I was glad when it was done and I almost DNF the book, maybe I should have? If you are interested in the Titanic stories than this is the book for you. Be ready for a slow read but I think you will learn a lot, to bad I really didn't like it.
March 10, 2022
I don’t think there are too many people who haven’t seen the movie Titanic nor who haven’t read Walter Lord’s ‘A Night To Remember.’ Many people know what happened on April 15, 1912, but few know about the ship that responded to the Titanic’s plea for help and the rescue mission. I caught the Titanic Fever in Grade 9 English because my teacher taught Lord’s book with such passion and I’ve continued to ride on that memory and search out other Titanic novels. What intrigued me about this book is that it’s uniquely told in alternating chapters from the perspective of two eyewitnesses to the epic maritime disaster; the captain of the Carpathia and a passenger from steerage aboard the Titanic.
The author writes to allow us into Captain Arthur Rostron’s mind as he delegates and organizes the rescue mission. Readers discover the leadership and the methodical rescue preparations the captain and his crew undertook to save lives and care for the survivors. When asked about his crew’s actions that fateful night he reported that “There was not a soul among them who had given less than his or her all, from the stokers in the bowels of the ship to the lookouts high above.” I was in awe at the respect he commanded and the swiftness with which the orders were carried out by his crew during what would be a night they’d never forget.
Readers also travel alongside 3rd class passenger, Kate Connolly, and feel her angst as she watches the Titanic sink from her lucky #13 lifeboat. From Kate’s perspective we read about other passengers prior to the collision, their scramble into the lifeboats, their rescue and their stay in hospital. The author was able to bring this POV alive for us by filling in blanks and offering new facts in this tragic event where we already knew the final outcome.
In the epilogue the author highlights each crewmember previously mentioned and the legacy they left.
“Soon Kate would find her own way. A permanent home built on the strength born of a night on icy waters, buoyed by a new appreciation of life and health, and a determination to live for those who could not do so themselves.”
This book will be published just a few days short of 110 years since that fateful night. What the author wants us to remember is not the tragedy, but the humanity. Race, class, sex, and religion were set aside as those on the sea that night helped each other to survive.
“A loss for one was a loss for all.”
I was gifted this advance copy by Rebecca Connolly, Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
The author writes to allow us into Captain Arthur Rostron’s mind as he delegates and organizes the rescue mission. Readers discover the leadership and the methodical rescue preparations the captain and his crew undertook to save lives and care for the survivors. When asked about his crew’s actions that fateful night he reported that “There was not a soul among them who had given less than his or her all, from the stokers in the bowels of the ship to the lookouts high above.” I was in awe at the respect he commanded and the swiftness with which the orders were carried out by his crew during what would be a night they’d never forget.
Readers also travel alongside 3rd class passenger, Kate Connolly, and feel her angst as she watches the Titanic sink from her lucky #13 lifeboat. From Kate’s perspective we read about other passengers prior to the collision, their scramble into the lifeboats, their rescue and their stay in hospital. The author was able to bring this POV alive for us by filling in blanks and offering new facts in this tragic event where we already knew the final outcome.
In the epilogue the author highlights each crewmember previously mentioned and the legacy they left.
“Soon Kate would find her own way. A permanent home built on the strength born of a night on icy waters, buoyed by a new appreciation of life and health, and a determination to live for those who could not do so themselves.”
This book will be published just a few days short of 110 years since that fateful night. What the author wants us to remember is not the tragedy, but the humanity. Race, class, sex, and religion were set aside as those on the sea that night helped each other to survive.
“A loss for one was a loss for all.”
I was gifted this advance copy by Rebecca Connolly, Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
December 19, 2022
I loved how there were subtle references to the Titanic movie in this book. Not only in the activities that were going on (example: the dance in Third Class), but also in the lines of conversation. There were occasionally moments in the conversations where a memorable quote from the movie was tossed in.
It is sad to think how little concern the employees and officers on the Titanic took the emergency at first. Yeah, they may have been told that this ship was well made and would be hard to sink, but many of them laughed at their passengers' concerns about what was happening. They should have at least been more respectful towards your guests then that.
I’ve never read a book that has made me cry until this one. Those last 50 pages especially. Reading about the survivors of the Titanic docking in New York and being reunited with their loved ones, as well as the heartbreak of those that were lost at sea. It really got to me.
I am so glad that at the end, the captain of the Carpathia, Arthur Rostron, gave Harold Cottam most of the credit for their rescue of the passengers on the Titanic. Harold very easily could have missed that SOS message as he was getting ready for bed. Not only that, but he acknowledged everyone of his crew members and what tasks they did to help ensure not only the rescue attempt, but caring for the survivors once they were on board.
It was interesting to get the perspective of the sinking of the Titanic from people that didn’t live through it on the ship. Seeing everything play out from Captain Arthur Rostron’s perspective was a different twist on these events.
It is sad to think how little concern the employees and officers on the Titanic took the emergency at first. Yeah, they may have been told that this ship was well made and would be hard to sink, but many of them laughed at their passengers' concerns about what was happening. They should have at least been more respectful towards your guests then that.
I’ve never read a book that has made me cry until this one. Those last 50 pages especially. Reading about the survivors of the Titanic docking in New York and being reunited with their loved ones, as well as the heartbreak of those that were lost at sea. It really got to me.
I am so glad that at the end, the captain of the Carpathia, Arthur Rostron, gave Harold Cottam most of the credit for their rescue of the passengers on the Titanic. Harold very easily could have missed that SOS message as he was getting ready for bed. Not only that, but he acknowledged everyone of his crew members and what tasks they did to help ensure not only the rescue attempt, but caring for the survivors once they were on board.
It was interesting to get the perspective of the sinking of the Titanic from people that didn’t live through it on the ship. Seeing everything play out from Captain Arthur Rostron’s perspective was a different twist on these events.
April 5, 2022
Reading A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice made me realize that the full story of the tragedy of the unsinkable Titanic hasn't been shared yet. Captain Rostron's decisive and heroic actions as he prepared his crew for what they were about to encounter was inspirational and heartrending. I've found a new hero in a man who never hesitated in doing the right thing
April 5, 2022
Rating: 4.5/5⭐️
Pub day: 4-5-2022
This was intricate look at the days surrounding the sinking of the Titanic, told from the perspectives of a woman aboard the Titanic and the captain of the Carpathia, the ship that came to the rescue.
Wow, I literally couldn’t stop reading this until I was 70% in, and that was only because I had to sleep! I saw @booksandchicks rave about this and requested it immediately. I’m so glad I did!
I know I’m not alone in being fascinated by the Titanic, but this was more exceptional than I expected because it showed multiple points of view as the events unfolded.
The characters in this novel are based on real people and follow as much of a real timeline as was possible. This is broken up into specific moments, making it fast paced and hard to put down. Thanks to the intricate details, I felt like I was truly in those moments experiencing the fear and trepidation of the people we were following.
Highly recommend for anyone wanting to know more about the Carpathia and the Titanic!
Thank you Netgalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for this digital arc in exchange for an honest review!
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May 31, 2022I confess I am a little Titanic-ed out in that I won't actively search any more books or fiction where it is featured. But when I stumbled upon this well-reviewed tale that includes the perspective of the Carpathia ( the ship that received a distress signal from the fated Titanic ). Here, Captain Arthur Rostron of the Carpathia and Kate Connolly, third class passenger who survives in one of Titanic's life boats, are given alternating viewpoints to paint witness on one of the most infamous man-made tragedies in history.
As a historical writer, I'm fascinated by how authors breathe respectful voice into real personages -turned-characters --- as Connolly does. I'm also beguiled by authors who wonderfully pace real events into a sequence that metes out action in close to real time. I know how the story ends but darnit it I didn't forget watching this fictionally realized world come to life in genius detail.
I respect @author.rebecca.connolly so much. This project cannot have been an easy endeavour. But it is a fascinating one. ♥️📚
With my thanks to @shadowmountainpub for the review copy
As a historical writer, I'm fascinated by how authors breathe respectful voice into real personages -turned-characters --- as Connolly does. I'm also beguiled by authors who wonderfully pace real events into a sequence that metes out action in close to real time. I know how the story ends but darnit it I didn't forget watching this fictionally realized world come to life in genius detail.
I respect @author.rebecca.connolly so much. This project cannot have been an easy endeavour. But it is a fascinating one. ♥️📚
With my thanks to @shadowmountainpub for the review copy
April 13, 2022
First things first: This book brought me out of my reading slump and I am forever grateful.
With that said, I didn't expect to like this book so much. After all, months of reading and getting annoyed with one's own book selections makes one rather cynical. But I read this book in ONE SITTING and yes, I can confirm it's a beautiful and *CLEAN* story.
I love how the author didn't shy away from the pain of that night many years ago, in fact, she only made it so much more real. Painful, yes, but also real. The author skillfully threaded the emotion through the pages, but rather than letting it bog the story down with darkness, she chose to weave a story of hope from the shattered pieces. Through the eyes of Kate, a passenger on the Titanic, and Arthur, the captain of the Carpathia, we see a story of great pain, but we also see a story of hope, of people coming together in the end to uplift and serve one another.
Guys. Not gonna lie, we need more books like this.
Disclaimer: I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an HONEST review.
With that said, I didn't expect to like this book so much. After all, months of reading and getting annoyed with one's own book selections makes one rather cynical. But I read this book in ONE SITTING and yes, I can confirm it's a beautiful and *CLEAN* story.
I love how the author didn't shy away from the pain of that night many years ago, in fact, she only made it so much more real. Painful, yes, but also real. The author skillfully threaded the emotion through the pages, but rather than letting it bog the story down with darkness, she chose to weave a story of hope from the shattered pieces. Through the eyes of Kate, a passenger on the Titanic, and Arthur, the captain of the Carpathia, we see a story of great pain, but we also see a story of hope, of people coming together in the end to uplift and serve one another.
Guys. Not gonna lie, we need more books like this.
Disclaimer: I received a free e-copy of this book in exchange for an HONEST review.
February 14, 2022
This book follows the Titanic disaster from the point of view of the captain of the Carpathia, the ship that rescued Titanic survivors, and one of the survivors, Kate Connolly. While the book started out strong, it quickly became repetitive and uninteresting.
I enjoyed hearing about Titanic in the first days, the excitement of the passengers, meeting new friends and exploring the ship. When the ship started to sink halfway through the book I thought, hmm, what's the second half going to be about? Well, it was mostly about the shock of the passengers and their sorrow. Repeated over and over and over.
I also couldn't get scenes from the movie out of my head and was picturing that the whole time while reading. Overall this book was not very original and could have used a bit more substance. I do like that the author tried to bring to light the role of Carpathia and its crew. I had hoped this would be a much better book. Thanks @netgalley for the ARC!
I enjoyed hearing about Titanic in the first days, the excitement of the passengers, meeting new friends and exploring the ship. When the ship started to sink halfway through the book I thought, hmm, what's the second half going to be about? Well, it was mostly about the shock of the passengers and their sorrow. Repeated over and over and over.
I also couldn't get scenes from the movie out of my head and was picturing that the whole time while reading. Overall this book was not very original and could have used a bit more substance. I do like that the author tried to bring to light the role of Carpathia and its crew. I had hoped this would be a much better book. Thanks @netgalley for the ARC!
April 6, 2022
It was a brilliant night of stars and ice, it was a night of death.
Almost 110 years ago, a catastrophe occurred, the greatest unsinkable ship Titanic sank.
I enjoyed reading this book, especially the part of Captain Arthur Rostron's story, his actions to rescue passengers of Titanic, his work with the crew of Carpathia.
Another great thing of this book is the excerpts from the memories of passengers, giving between the chapters.
But Kate's story did not work for me, I couldn't say that I like that part. Many characters with the same names were not good for my understanding.
A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice would be attractive to read by people who love historical fiction and also who are fans of Titanic.
Thanks to Rebecca Connolly, Shadow Mountain and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!
Almost 110 years ago, a catastrophe occurred, the greatest unsinkable ship Titanic sank.
I enjoyed reading this book, especially the part of Captain Arthur Rostron's story, his actions to rescue passengers of Titanic, his work with the crew of Carpathia.
Another great thing of this book is the excerpts from the memories of passengers, giving between the chapters.
But Kate's story did not work for me, I couldn't say that I like that part. Many characters with the same names were not good for my understanding.
A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice would be attractive to read by people who love historical fiction and also who are fans of Titanic.
Thanks to Rebecca Connolly, Shadow Mountain and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!
May 3, 2022
Loved it! A satisfying tale of those who survived the Titanic & those who hurried to the rescue. I appreciated the details of the Carpathia’s response & the poignant scenes of separation & sacrifice from the Titanic. Also very touching was the tribute to the Titanic when the Carpathia docked in NYC. The narrators complimented the story telling. This was a great listening experience.
Every year on the anniversary of 9/11, I find someone’s story to share with my students. We’ve watched riveting videos of private boaters who picked up trapped folks from the tip of Manhattan & carried them to the mainland, a pilot who narrowly missed being on one of the doomed planes, survivors who praised the brave folks who saved them from burning buildings, etc. This story had the same feel for me & I really enjoyed it!
Every year on the anniversary of 9/11, I find someone’s story to share with my students. We’ve watched riveting videos of private boaters who picked up trapped folks from the tip of Manhattan & carried them to the mainland, a pilot who narrowly missed being on one of the doomed planes, survivors who praised the brave folks who saved them from burning buildings, etc. This story had the same feel for me & I really enjoyed it!
February 23, 2024
This was very good. In all honesty, I had never thought about the ship that came to rescue passengers of the Titanic. And reading about it actually prompted me to go back and look up several details throughout the book. It's told from the perspectives of the Captain of the ship that rescued passengers-the Carpathia, as well as a passenger from the Titanic. Although it was detailed and descriptive, I was thankful it didn't have many gruesome parts. I really loved how the author inserted into conversations in the book how one day, no one would even remember the Carpathia or the heroic thing the crew members did in rescuing the passengers. She's right. I think it's fantastic she wrote this book, giving honor to the crew.
January 14, 2023
This is a historical fiction account of passengers on the Titanic and the crew of the Carpathia, the ship that rescued Titanic passengers. Swipe for goodreads synopsis.
I loved how this included an illustration/map and a character chart! However, I found it a little cheesy and not gripping with enough tension/feeling, especially for the subject matter. The Titanic hit ice at the 18% mark I feel like it could have benefitted from more buildup.
I though the discussions on class distinctions and issues on Titanic including the poor design were especially interesting. I also loved the Molly Brown cameo.
I didn’t really get the fascination with the characters who had the same names and was a little confused by some of their motivations. However, I thought this was an interesting account of a story we aren’t as familiar with, the ship that saved passengers.
⚠️: death, grief, classism
I loved how this included an illustration/map and a character chart! However, I found it a little cheesy and not gripping with enough tension/feeling, especially for the subject matter. The Titanic hit ice at the 18% mark I feel like it could have benefitted from more buildup.
I though the discussions on class distinctions and issues on Titanic including the poor design were especially interesting. I also loved the Molly Brown cameo.
I didn’t really get the fascination with the characters who had the same names and was a little confused by some of their motivations. However, I thought this was an interesting account of a story we aren’t as familiar with, the ship that saved passengers.
⚠️: death, grief, classism
April 6, 2022
A gripping story of the events surrounding the sinking of the Titanic in April 1912, but told from a perspective you may never have read before--that of the Carpathia, the ship that strained every limit to reach the sinking ship but simply could not make it in time. The Carpathia did, however, rescue all of the survivors in the lifeboats.
I had not been terribly interested in reading a Titanic book at this point in my life; after all, when one has read Walter Lord's 1955 novel, and seen the occasional movie or documentary, one's threshold for Titanic mania may seem to have been reached. It's an emotionally exhausting event to contemplate.
But this book, involving a much lesser known perspective, and following a Titanic survivor who has no lost loved ones to lament, struck a balance of being sobering but still bearable to read.
The characters in this novel are all based on their real-life counterparts. The characterizations aren't particularly memorable, but I can see how difficult it would be to make this story character-driven, when in reality it is 100% event-driven.
It held my interest the entire way through.
Thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for the digital review copy! This book is on sale as of today.
I had not been terribly interested in reading a Titanic book at this point in my life; after all, when one has read Walter Lord's 1955 novel, and seen the occasional movie or documentary, one's threshold for Titanic mania may seem to have been reached. It's an emotionally exhausting event to contemplate.
But this book, involving a much lesser known perspective, and following a Titanic survivor who has no lost loved ones to lament, struck a balance of being sobering but still bearable to read.
The characters in this novel are all based on their real-life counterparts. The characterizations aren't particularly memorable, but I can see how difficult it would be to make this story character-driven, when in reality it is 100% event-driven.
It held my interest the entire way through.
Thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for the digital review copy! This book is on sale as of today.
May 9, 2023
Always love a good Titanic book but the writing in this was more “tell” than “show.” I also think the book would’ve been more interesting without the POV of the Titanic passenger Kate and focus only on Captain of the Carpathia.
But I did appreciate the efforts taken to be historically accurate and to highlight the less heard of story of Capt Rostron
But I did appreciate the efforts taken to be historically accurate and to highlight the less heard of story of Capt Rostron
August 8, 2023
Loved this perspective of the courageous Carpathia crew as they rushed to Titanic's aid. The author serves history well by shining light on the forgotten story of what they did, and on the hand of Providence along the way.
August 20, 2022
Whenever I think about the Titanic I picture the upper-class passengers traveling in luxury. I think of a single glacier and open water. I don't think about the ship that came to the rescue, the Carpathia.
Rebecca Connolly dug deep in research to write this book. The story is told from two perspectives. The first was Kate Connolly, who was a third-class passenger. She was fortunate to board Life Boat 13. Her POV is heart-wrenching. She vividly describes the men who helped women to board the boats, only to remain behind and go down with the ship. I really can't imagine how hard it was to listen to the unfortunate people who wore life jackets and floated in the freezing water. She also describes the cries of anguish as many women realized that they had just become a widow.
The Carpathia was a new story for me. There were many miracles that allowed the ship to get to the survivors shortly after the Titanic sank. The Titanic was supposed to be unsinkable Captain Rostron and his crew were stunned to discover that she had already gone down. Their actions were heroic and I have great respect for them.
This book was everything that I didn't know that I wanted. My expectations were exceeded.
Source:. I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rebecca Connolly dug deep in research to write this book. The story is told from two perspectives. The first was Kate Connolly, who was a third-class passenger. She was fortunate to board Life Boat 13. Her POV is heart-wrenching. She vividly describes the men who helped women to board the boats, only to remain behind and go down with the ship. I really can't imagine how hard it was to listen to the unfortunate people who wore life jackets and floated in the freezing water. She also describes the cries of anguish as many women realized that they had just become a widow.
The Carpathia was a new story for me. There were many miracles that allowed the ship to get to the survivors shortly after the Titanic sank. The Titanic was supposed to be unsinkable Captain Rostron and his crew were stunned to discover that she had already gone down. Their actions were heroic and I have great respect for them.
This book was everything that I didn't know that I wanted. My expectations were exceeded.
Source:. I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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