Introduction to ‘Last Port of Call’

‘Last Port of Call’ is an evocative novel authored by Jean Grainger that transports readers to Queenstown, County Cork, Ireland, in April 1912. The story centers around twelve-year-old Harp Delaney, a young girl whose intelligence and introspection set her apart from her peers. Instead of engaging in the usual games of childhood, Harp prefers the quiet refuge of her home’s library, making her journey all the more poignant.

The Characters and Their World

The narrative intricately weaves the lives of Harp, her mother Rose, and the enigmatic Henry Devereaux. Rose, who works as a housekeeper at the Cliff House, embodies grace and quiet strength, often catching the envy of local women and the admiration of men. Their unorthodox family dynamic creates a unique atmosphere at the Cliff House, filled with acceptance of each other’s quirks. This peaceful existence is shattered when tragedy strikes with the Titanic’s ill-fated maiden voyage, marking a turning point in their lives.

Thematic Depth and Historical Context

Grainger’s novel captures not only the personal struggles of Harp and Rose but also reflects on broader themes of loss and adaptation. The shock of the Titanic disaster reverberates through the small port town, resonating with the dreams of those who sailed from Queenstown, the last sight of Ireland for many. As the mother-daughter duo confronts long-held secrets and seeks solutions, they exemplify the resilience of the human spirit in times of turmoil.