Book excerpt: Brigit, an Irish colleen, was orphaned at birth. This was a difficult and mysterious way to start life. But thanks to the kindness of her adoptive parents Brigit learnt that love conquers all. The family risked their lives sailing on the high seas to begin a new life in New Zealand. It was 1815. Life was hard for the settlers. Brigit learnt to become a teacher, wife, and mother. Life dealt her cruel blows. Brigit was widowed. Grief is married to joy as Brigit was brave. Walking on in life, Brigit was lucky. She was blessed with more children. The husbands in Brigit’s life adored her. They made her heart sing the secret of real happiness.