The Irish Potato Famine of the mid-19th century brought devastation to thousands of families. John and Kathleen Murphy fled to England - to tragedy, their lives cut short by an outbreak of flu. Their 6-year-old daughter, Elizabeth, falls ill herself and is cared for by a family friend. Unaware that her parents have died, she is eventually taken in by a wealthy doctor in London who raises her with his own daughter, Isabella. Elizabeth's long-lost next of kin in Ireland welcome her back over the years and she spends many happy holidays there. As she becomes a young lady, well educated and introduced into society and the sensitive issues of class, she finds love - but heartbreak is to come... Elizabeth Murphy is a heartwarming, moving and engaging tale - a joy to read.