Kirkus Best Book Chicago Public Library Best Book "I hold my breath while reading Sarah Crossan's books. Every word is filled with so much love, the book is practically throbbing. A beautiful, perfect, moving read." --Cecelia Ahern, bestselling author of P. S. I Love You In 1847, everything in Ireland was falling apart--but sixteen-year-old Nell was falling in love. Carnegie Medal winner Sarah Crossan's first historical novel-in-verse is a suspenseful and heartbreaking story of love, family, and the forces that can destroy us or bind us forever. For fans of Joy McCullough, Elizabeth Acevedo, Malinda Lo, and Ruta Sepetys.

Ireland is starving, and a poor Irish scullery maid falls in love with the British heir to the land. Can their romance stay hidden during the devastating famine? The potatoes are black, people are dying, and in the midst of it all, Nell must do everything she can to keep her family together and everyone she loves alive. It is hard to tell a love story and also the story of a people being torn apart. Can love survive when the world is falling apart? Forbidden Romance: Nell is a poor Irish scullery maid and Johnny is the English heir to the land she works. Their love is a betrayal to both their worlds, and a secret that could cost them everything. The Great Hunger Setting: Set against the backdrop of 1840s Ireland, where the potato blight has brought starvation and despair, forcing families to make impossible choices. Lyrical Novel in Verse: Told through stunning, accessible poetry that captures Nell's intimate voice, making this historical epic a quick, unforgettable read. A Heartbreaking Story of Survival: As her family and neighbors face eviction and death, Nell is torn between her love for Johnny and her duty to her people.