I was given this book for Christmas and frankly did not think that the subject would interest me. However, to my amazement I was fascinated. Ann Victoria is a superb writer who draws the reader into this historical piece with great dexterity. I found myself fascinated by the descriptions of the early ships and their times leading finally to the Titanic. I thought that I knew enough about this ill-fated ship but I was intrigued to the bitter end. Well done.