A Light on the Rocks

By Helen Edwards

Reviewed by Jenny Ruge

A Light on the Rocks is a magical historical novel from award-winning author Dr Helen Edwards. Her earlier works include Legend of the Lighthouse Moon and On Gallant Wings, both published by Riveted Press.  Her latest offering, A Light on the Rocks, is a duel timeline story that interweaves an actual historical event with a vividly imagined story of two children, each facing challenges in their own ways.

In 1859, fourteen-year-old Daisy and her family embark on a short voyage aboard the steamer SS Admella, bound for Melbourne. When the Admella founders on rocks, splitting in two and stranding passengers and crew onboard the wreck, a heartbreaking struggle for survival begins. Though the stricken ship is tantalisingly close to shore, the wild ocean thwarts all rescue attempts for almost a week, with tragic consequences. One hundred years later, Max and his sister Rosemary are spending their holidays at the remote Cape Jaffa Lighthouse with their father. After hearing the fascinating story of the SS Admella, Max encounters a mysterious whale, a ghostly horse, and the image of a deckhand entrusted with the care of horses on the ill-fated steamer. With the help of these strange apparitions, Max overcomes his lack of confidence when he is suddenly called upon to keep the lighthouse operating.

While not shying away from the devastating historical loss of life, Edwards doesn’t sensationalise the events, instead focussing on Daisy’s relationships with her family and her courage in extreme circumstances. Fear and suspense are key aspects of the story, but never become overwhelming. In a similar way, Max’s difficulties with reading and Rosemary’s health challenges are portrayed in subtle ways, helping to present them as believable and authentic characters.

Edwards has shown in her earlier works that she is particularly adept at bringing little-known historical facts and events to light in engaging and relevant stories, and this novel is no exception. As always, her extensive research is clearly evident in the text and will fascinate readers. The inclusion of the lists of names of victims and survivors of the SS Admella included at the end of the book adds to the poignancy of the story.

Recommended for middle-grade readers, ages 8-12, although older readers and adults interested in shipwrecks may also find the novel intriguing.

Riveted Press, 2026

Helen Edwards