Secrets at the Irish Adoption House

by Michelle Vernal, Jennifer Fitzgerald (Narrator)

Ireland, 1920. Tears fill my eyes as I hear the whispers of the other girls in the dark of the night. But I won’t let them see me cry. I won’t let my secrets out. The family I’m hiding from could find me, and take my baby away....

To the other girls at St Patrick’s Mother and Baby Home, Cecelia is just another fallen woman. But they don’t know her father is a penniless lord with an English title. And Cecelia is determined that they never will. She came here alone, in if her family knew she was pregnant, the life of her baby could be on the line.

Despite herself, the kind act of stolen bread being pressed into her hands when she’s in most need sees her confiding in the other women. Then the worst Cecelia’s family find her and take her precious newborn. Was she betrayed by another girl in the home?

She’s determined to find her child…but with all her family’s connections, she can’t do it by herself. She hears whispers of a network of women working to unite mothers and babies. But with the baby’s father dangerously caught up in the unrest brewing across Ireland, will Cecelia or her darling daughter ever see him again?

This tear-jerking and unforgettable historical novel, full of family secrets, betrayal, and friendship in the darkest times, is perfect for fans of Jean Grainger, Lisa Wingate, and Sandy Taylor.

Audible Audio

Published October 21, 2025

About the author

Michelle Vernal is a bestselling author of warm, witty, and uplifting Irish fiction. Born in England to parents from Liverpool – often called “Little Ireland” – she grew up on her mum’s tales of Iocal families, music, and humour. Later, she lived, worked, got engaged, and travelled extensively in Ireland, experiences that inspire her much-loved novels, including the hilarious Guesthouse on the Green series. Her stories, filled with heart, humour, and unforgettable characters, have earned her a loyal readership worldwide.

For updates on Michelle's latest book releases you can follow her here: https://www.amazon.com/author/michell...

Reviews

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Ireland 1920, a young woman is pregnant and goes to a house for unwed mothers. She is also hiding from family. Richly written characters. The story gripped my heart. A must read.