The River Maid

London, 1854: Twenty-year-old Essie Chapman lives with her father in poverty stricken Limehouse, working on the river as a boatman. Then, one night, she must transport a mysterious man from a foreign ship to the banks of the Thames, a man who ends up renting a room in Essie’s house, identifying himself only as ‘Raven’. When curiosity gets the better of her, Essie follows him and finds herself on a ship bound for the penal colonies in Australia.  Book 1 of series.

When Carrie Manning’s father dies her mother, Esther, is heartbroken and leaves London to convalesce. It is down to Carrie to take charge of the shipping company that her father has left behind. But the company is in dire straits and Carrie’s journey is as unpredictable as the waters that link rival shipping companies. But will her determination be enough to preserve the legacy of her family’s name?  Book 2 of series.

Rose Munday is on the way back to the city she was born in, but expecting to be met by her sweetheart, she is left alone on the docks, surrounded by whistles and scornful glances. How could Max have abandoned her? With no money left, Rose must go to work. Finding herself a position as a typist, Rose’s future begins to take shape. But London is a treacherous place for a young woman, and what initially seemed a brave decision, might just be a dangerous one…  Book 3 of series.