Stepping Stones

**Delve into a Heart-Wrenching Family Saga of Survival, Secrets, and the Relentless Pursuit of Happiness: Discover Maureen Lee's *Stepping Stones*** Experience a sweeping and emotionally charged journey through generations of hardship and resilience with Maureen Lee's captivating novel, *Stepping Stones*. Set against the gritty backdrop of Liverpool, England, and the dazzling lights of Hollywood, this epic family saga explores the enduring bonds of family, the devastating impact of trauma, and the unwavering human spirit's capacity for hope and healing. *Stepping Stones* introduces us to Kitty O'Brien, a mother driven to desperate measures to provide for her starving children in a world riddled with poverty and despair. Her life takes a dark turn when she is forced to make impossible choices on the Liverpool docks. The story intensifies as Kitty's daughter, Lizzie, becomes entangled in a web of unimaginable circumstances. At just thirteen, Lizzie faces a life-altering event that sets in motion a chain of events that will haunt her for years to come. A desperate act of violence leads to a devastating sacrifice, forever shaping Lizzie's destiny and forcing her to confront the darkest corners of her past. Driven by a relentless desire to escape her past, Lizzie embarks on a remarkable journey that takes her far from the streets of Liverpool to the glamorous world of Hollywood. There, she finds success, fortune, and the camaraderie of newfound friends. But even amidst the glittering faade of fame, Lizzie remains haunted by the ghosts of her past. Relationships falter, and even marriage cannot bring her the peace she so desperately seeks. Ultimately, Lizzie is drawn back to her roots, compelled to confront the unresolved traumas that have shaped her life. It is in her final marriage, and its subsequent turbulent aftermath, that she is finally forced to face her past, unearth long-buried secrets, and find the path towards the elusive happiness and peace of mind that have always been just beyond her reach. Maureen Lee masterfully weaves a tale of profound emotion, exploring themes of sacrifice, survival, and the enduring power of family. With richly drawn characters and a vividly rendered setting, *Stepping Stones* will transport you to another time and place, leaving you deeply moved and utterly captivated. This is a book that will stay with you long after you turn the final page, prompting reflection on the complexities of human relationships and the enduring quest for belonging. Fans of historical fiction, family sagas, and stories of strong women overcoming adversity will find *Stepping Stones* an unforgettable read. Don't miss this poignant and powerful novel by a beloved storyteller. This edition has 592 pages and was published in 2003 by Orion Publishing.