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On the Edge of Daylight
"Beautifully crafted . . . this expertly characterized and tautly plotted story is an extremely impressive debut." — Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)
When Esther Bailey boards the RMS Titanic as its first female officer, her welcome is lukewarm—and no one is more unwelcoming than her own mentor, Officer Wyndham Murdoch.
His cool dismissal only turns colder once they set sail, with Esther’s short temper challenging his own. But as they begin to earn one another's respect, blurring the line between duty and attraction, she and Wynn find themselves questioning what matters most: their careers . . . or the feelings they’re hiding from each other. As the tragic fate of Titanic unfolds around them, will they overcome the odds together and live to see daylight?
Blending fact with fiction, On the Edge of Daylight is a slow burn, heart-wrenching historical love story between two officers who were never supposed to fall for each other.
When Esther Bailey boards the RMS Titanic as its first female officer, her welcome is lukewarm—and no one is more unwelcoming than her own mentor, Officer Wyndham Murdoch.
His cool dismissal only turns colder once they set sail, with Esther’s short temper challenging his own. But as they begin to earn one another's respect, blurring the line between duty and attraction, she and Wynn find themselves questioning what matters most: their careers . . . or the feelings they’re hiding from each other. As the tragic fate of Titanic unfolds around them, will they overcome the odds together and live to see daylight?
Blending fact with fiction, On the Edge of Daylight is a slow burn, heart-wrenching historical love story between two officers who were never supposed to fall for each other.
474 pages, Hardcover
First published April 18, 2018
92 people are currently reading
2002 people want to read
About the author
Giselle Beaumont
1 book31 followersGiselle Beaumont works in software and loves writing and drawing in her spare time. On the Edge of Daylight, which is her first published novel, features her own cover artwork and character illustrations.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
May 14, 2025
An expertly crafted historical romance that explores the enemies-to-lovers trope, focusing on First Officer William Murdoch and the fictional Seventh Officer Esther Bailey. My admiration for Murdoch, along with Fifth Officer Harold Lowe and Sixth Officer James Moody, was sparked by the 1997 film, and they remain equally captivating in this narrative.
Upon discovering The Sea That Binds Us by This_lonely_coil and Beneath A Constant Star by sailaway on Archive of Our Own, I realized that I had to read this book, which similarly focuses on a romance involving a Titanic officer.
On the Edge of Daylight is clever, filled with engaging dialogue, and provides an intriguing glimpse into the lives of the Titanic's crew. While the author took some creative liberties, she conducted thorough research to ensure the narrative's realism. Although I occasionally had to suspend my disbelief, this emotional historical romance will linger in my memory for years to come.
Upon discovering The Sea That Binds Us by This_lonely_coil and Beneath A Constant Star by sailaway on Archive of Our Own, I realized that I had to read this book, which similarly focuses on a romance involving a Titanic officer.
On the Edge of Daylight is clever, filled with engaging dialogue, and provides an intriguing glimpse into the lives of the Titanic's crew. While the author took some creative liberties, she conducted thorough research to ensure the narrative's realism. Although I occasionally had to suspend my disbelief, this emotional historical romance will linger in my memory for years to come.
October 1, 2018
I've never had a book touch my heart and soul like this. I was in tears for the last few chapters because I knew what was coming. Giselle has the talent of making it all come to life in such detail that it's like you are there. I couldn't put it down and it's one that you read slowly holding onto every detail. They had a love that everyone dreams of even when they were battling each other. I loved that others wanted them together if it meant he was happy. I normally don't talk about the love scenes very much, but their first one was powerful after all the build-up and it made me believe they were soulmates. Thy did everything they could to help the others and wouldn't leave each other. With a book like this with such a tragic ending overall, it does have a happy ending in its own way.
Esther was a strong woman with the mouth of a sailor that really proved herself. She overcame some terrible things in her past and while on the ship, but she never gave up. I loved her spark from the beginning and how bold she was in everything. She was willing to take the risks.
Will tried his best to treat her like any other officer and hide his feelings. He is one you have to get to know and understand but will love. When he finally let his feelings take over he was like another man. He would do anything for her and she was all he thought about.
I normally don't comment on covers, but this one makes the story come to life even more. It gives you face to put with the people. Same goes for the artwork at the end. I also love that she includes notes about facts and fiction in the story and more info. It inspires me to research on my own.
copy provided for an honest and voluntary review
Esther was a strong woman with the mouth of a sailor that really proved herself. She overcame some terrible things in her past and while on the ship, but she never gave up. I loved her spark from the beginning and how bold she was in everything. She was willing to take the risks.
Will tried his best to treat her like any other officer and hide his feelings. He is one you have to get to know and understand but will love. When he finally let his feelings take over he was like another man. He would do anything for her and she was all he thought about.
I normally don't comment on covers, but this one makes the story come to life even more. It gives you face to put with the people. Same goes for the artwork at the end. I also love that she includes notes about facts and fiction in the story and more info. It inspires me to research on my own.
copy provided for an honest and voluntary review
May 13, 2018
I actually first read this story when the author had published it on a website for fanfiction. Initially, I was hesitant. I'm not a huge fan of fanfiction as I often find it to go over the top and the stories aren't very well developed. However, this one proved me wrong. The story itself follows more of the story of the movie Titanic that the actual sinking itself, though, as someone who has studied Titanic for a long time, it is mostly accurate to what actually happens. There are times in the book where you can see where the author borrowed ideas from the James Cameron movie, but she changes it enough to where the reader doesn't really mind and it fits in well with the story.
However, the main premise of the story is one that the author created on her own. It follows Esther Bailey, who is making history as the first female officer at the White Star Line. In light of the way many thought during this time, her male counterparts aren't very thrilled, especially the man in charge of her training, First Officer William Murdoch. While most of the officers seem to warm up to Esther, the relationship between Murdoch and Esther is difficult even though there appears to be some underlining feelings between the two.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and it was fun reading it through a second time, as Ms. Beaumont made several changes from when she initially posted it online. I loved how she portrayed the characters and she did a good job building up the relationship between Esther and Murdoch. Nothing felt forced, or too slow, or too quick. The ending itself was also very satisfying. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the Titanic. It's a nice addition to the vast cannon of Titanic literature and, even if you aren't big into the Titanic, it's a great love story.
However, the main premise of the story is one that the author created on her own. It follows Esther Bailey, who is making history as the first female officer at the White Star Line. In light of the way many thought during this time, her male counterparts aren't very thrilled, especially the man in charge of her training, First Officer William Murdoch. While most of the officers seem to warm up to Esther, the relationship between Murdoch and Esther is difficult even though there appears to be some underlining feelings between the two.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and it was fun reading it through a second time, as Ms. Beaumont made several changes from when she initially posted it online. I loved how she portrayed the characters and she did a good job building up the relationship between Esther and Murdoch. Nothing felt forced, or too slow, or too quick. The ending itself was also very satisfying. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the Titanic. It's a nice addition to the vast cannon of Titanic literature and, even if you aren't big into the Titanic, it's a great love story.
January 22, 2022
It was the most beautiful and tragic book I've ever read. At the end, I was completely in tears and drooling, because the fact that it was all really hits even harder.
Esther. an icon of feminism and the first female officer. I won't lie, I didn't really like it at the beginning, but the way it was revealed... how much she's been through is too much to take. how much she deserves a happy ending, she dreamed so much of traveling the world and died so young. she was so lucky that she managed to feel real and sincere love. what she probably didn't deserve was a bullet at the end. the author was very cruel to her.
William. at first I didn't like how he behaved towards Esther, but then he revealed himself as such a devoted and gentle man. the fact that he died with guilt breaks my heart. the only consolation is that he died by the hand of the love of his life and under her voice.
Esther and William. No, but their love thread hits so hard that I cried half the night because of them. they deserved so much, they literally spent less than a week with each other and were able to feel so much??? to die like this in the middle of the ocean by the hand with the love of your life frozen, I can't imagine. this love was more tragic than any Romeo and Juliet, because they wanted to live.
and they didn't have a chance.
song:1 step forward 3 steps back by olivia rodrigo
similar book: stalking jack the ripper by kerri maniscalco
Esther. an icon of feminism and the first female officer. I won't lie, I didn't really like it at the beginning, but the way it was revealed... how much she's been through is too much to take. how much she deserves a happy ending, she dreamed so much of traveling the world and died so young. she was so lucky that she managed to feel real and sincere love. what she probably didn't deserve was a bullet at the end. the author was very cruel to her.
William. at first I didn't like how he behaved towards Esther, but then he revealed himself as such a devoted and gentle man. the fact that he died with guilt breaks my heart. the only consolation is that he died by the hand of the love of his life and under her voice.
Esther and William. No, but their love thread hits so hard that I cried half the night because of them. they deserved so much, they literally spent less than a week with each other and were able to feel so much??? to die like this in the middle of the ocean by the hand with the love of your life frozen, I can't imagine. this love was more tragic than any Romeo and Juliet, because they wanted to live.
and they didn't have a chance.
song:1 step forward 3 steps back by olivia rodrigo
similar book: stalking jack the ripper by kerri maniscalco
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2018
On the Edge of Daylight: A Novel of the Titanic by Giselle Beaumont
I need to begin by mentioning the fact that I did not see the movie Titanic.
Therefore I can't say the novel "borrowed " from the film.
The author did supply an initial list of characters, an afterward
to her narrative, artwork, Titanic diagrams, timelines etc.
The historical notes explained the "creative liberty" the author exercised.
Some characters were fabricated, including our main female character (Esther Bailey, seventh officer in training).
Her love interest (William McMaster Murdoch, first officer of the Titanic) has been resurrected from the actual tragic crew and depicted as single to suit the love affair.
I appreciated a look at the probable daily routine of officers,
the opulence of passengers and the functions correlated for their pleasure.
I didn't think torrid displays of passion were necessary and it limits the audience to whom I would suggest the novel.
That is my personal feeling.
The historical fiction is imaginative, occasionally intense but the reader with limited knowledge of the tragedy (that would include me) need remember this is a fictional extension of an actual event.
beautiful cover choice
ARC rec'd thoughtfully packaged as a gift
3.5 *
I need to begin by mentioning the fact that I did not see the movie Titanic.
Therefore I can't say the novel "borrowed " from the film.
The author did supply an initial list of characters, an afterward
to her narrative, artwork, Titanic diagrams, timelines etc.
The historical notes explained the "creative liberty" the author exercised.
Some characters were fabricated, including our main female character (Esther Bailey, seventh officer in training).
Her love interest (William McMaster Murdoch, first officer of the Titanic) has been resurrected from the actual tragic crew and depicted as single to suit the love affair.
I appreciated a look at the probable daily routine of officers,
the opulence of passengers and the functions correlated for their pleasure.
I didn't think torrid displays of passion were necessary and it limits the audience to whom I would suggest the novel.
That is my personal feeling.
The historical fiction is imaginative, occasionally intense but the reader with limited knowledge of the tragedy (that would include me) need remember this is a fictional extension of an actual event.
beautiful cover choice
ARC rec'd thoughtfully packaged as a gift
3.5 *
June 9, 2018
It's almost unbelievable that something - what started as a simple listing through fanfiction one bored day - ended in actual printed story. I have read the story on fanfic page already twice before news about it coming as a book reached me, and I'm glad for it.
One could argue that a crowd about heroines added to Cameron's story about Titanic already exists there and that nothing is worth anything more than zeroes and ones on some almost-forgotten site. Well, I must oppose. Beaumont's writing has something that I hardly find in other 'ordinary' fan-written fiction. Let's say there is some genius in it that is even more pronounced now when I can actually read a physical copy of the story. And boy, I fell in love with Esther Anna Bailey instantly. Strong heroine? Sure, but there is also a glimpse of her weakness - something profusely lacking in other fanfics (and I have read my lion share of them, believe me). Nothing is strictly black or white here, and - my goodnes - the bickering between her and Murdoch lad? It brought me to my knees in uncontrollable laughter. Well, many side glances people gave me in the bus when I burst into laughing all of sudden were worth it.
I adore how Giselle Beaumont maintained historical accuracy of the story. I imagine it took a lot of time to do a proper research - I myself know about the doomed ship perhaps more than is healthy for an individual. Yet she kept the story in a pace that convinces the reader "to read one more chapter" even though it's two in the morning. Also, her portrayal of other officers is more than accurate (in a sense what we can learn about their true characters nowadays), and possible little deviations here and there cannot disturb the reader from enjoying it profoundly.
I absolutely love it.
One could argue that a crowd about heroines added to Cameron's story about Titanic already exists there and that nothing is worth anything more than zeroes and ones on some almost-forgotten site. Well, I must oppose. Beaumont's writing has something that I hardly find in other 'ordinary' fan-written fiction. Let's say there is some genius in it that is even more pronounced now when I can actually read a physical copy of the story. And boy, I fell in love with Esther Anna Bailey instantly. Strong heroine? Sure, but there is also a glimpse of her weakness - something profusely lacking in other fanfics (and I have read my lion share of them, believe me). Nothing is strictly black or white here, and - my goodnes - the bickering between her and Murdoch lad? It brought me to my knees in uncontrollable laughter. Well, many side glances people gave me in the bus when I burst into laughing all of sudden were worth it.
I adore how Giselle Beaumont maintained historical accuracy of the story. I imagine it took a lot of time to do a proper research - I myself know about the doomed ship perhaps more than is healthy for an individual. Yet she kept the story in a pace that convinces the reader "to read one more chapter" even though it's two in the morning. Also, her portrayal of other officers is more than accurate (in a sense what we can learn about their true characters nowadays), and possible little deviations here and there cannot disturb the reader from enjoying it profoundly.
I absolutely love it.
August 18, 2021
Pure fanfic heaven with a unique blend of fiction, real life and details from the blockbuster film. The Titanic obsessed teen in me gobbled this up. I've always enjoyed reading about the officers on the ship so a book that not only details their on-ship life but also creates a romance is *chefs kiss*
I also super appreciate the author including so much information after the story. There's art, diagrams, a fake watch schedule, glossary and even a resolution for what happens to all the characters. It enriches and completes the story: I wish more books did this!
I also super appreciate the author including so much information after the story. There's art, diagrams, a fake watch schedule, glossary and even a resolution for what happens to all the characters. It enriches and completes the story: I wish more books did this!
December 22, 2019
"On the Edge of Daylight" is a novel that left a bad taste in my mouth. Once posted on FanFiction.net as fanfiction of the 1997 movie "Titanic," the published version does little to disguise it from what it really is: fanfiction. From using dialogue and scenes taken directly from the movie to using the very obvious likeness of Ewan Stewart - the actor who played Will Murdoch in the film - on the cover, it is extremely difficult to separate this book from the movie.
Callum Lockerbie is a very ill-disgused Plan B of movie villain Cal Hockley, right along with his unwilling fiancée and his formidable, gray-haired valet. The novel even goes so far as to have his fiancée nearly fall overboard, only to be rescued by some lowerclass "ruffian;" in this case, it's wireless operator Harold Bride instead of Jack Dawson. It appears that minimal effort was made to separate the novel from the film.
In terms of the writing, I found it to be very saturated with description and difficult to get through. Esther Bailey is a Mary-Sue character in the highest degree, with everyone around her being obsessed with her except, of course, the love interest. No one can understand why Murdoch doesn't like Esther when she's SO charming and SO likable. Even those who didn't like her at first end up liking her and valuing her. Of course, Murdoch isn't the only one who's madly in love with her at first sight. Not only does Lowe want her, but Cal Hockley - sorry, Callum Lockerbie - is obsessed with her, too. I find their respective infatuations a bit difficult to believe, given that there's nothing particularly likable about Esther, nor do she and Murdoch have any sort of chemistry.
It's just my opinion, but I feel that this novel would have been better left on FanFiction.net.
Callum Lockerbie is a very ill-disgused Plan B of movie villain Cal Hockley, right along with his unwilling fiancée and his formidable, gray-haired valet. The novel even goes so far as to have his fiancée nearly fall overboard, only to be rescued by some lowerclass "ruffian;" in this case, it's wireless operator Harold Bride instead of Jack Dawson. It appears that minimal effort was made to separate the novel from the film.
In terms of the writing, I found it to be very saturated with description and difficult to get through. Esther Bailey is a Mary-Sue character in the highest degree, with everyone around her being obsessed with her except, of course, the love interest. No one can understand why Murdoch doesn't like Esther when she's SO charming and SO likable. Even those who didn't like her at first end up liking her and valuing her. Of course, Murdoch isn't the only one who's madly in love with her at first sight. Not only does Lowe want her, but Cal Hockley - sorry, Callum Lockerbie - is obsessed with her, too. I find their respective infatuations a bit difficult to believe, given that there's nothing particularly likable about Esther, nor do she and Murdoch have any sort of chemistry.
It's just my opinion, but I feel that this novel would have been better left on FanFiction.net.
May 24, 2018
Titanic novels are a favorite
I began this novel with great anticipation at the unique storyline involving a female officer, Esther Bailey, and a relationship with a true Titanic officer, Will Murdoch.
On the Edge of Daylight is a good read, however the author's use of the exact dialogue and scenes from the movie, Titanic, was distracting. She could have used dialogue written from her imagination rather than that from the movie.
I did read the entire book. It was good, but distracting as I previously mentioned.
I began this novel with great anticipation at the unique storyline involving a female officer, Esther Bailey, and a relationship with a true Titanic officer, Will Murdoch.
On the Edge of Daylight is a good read, however the author's use of the exact dialogue and scenes from the movie, Titanic, was distracting. She could have used dialogue written from her imagination rather than that from the movie.
I did read the entire book. It was good, but distracting as I previously mentioned.
November 23, 2020
i’ve been fascinated by the titanic since i was 7 years old and i’ve been reading everything i can get my hands on about her ever since, fiction and nonfiction alike. this one stands out as one of my favorites.
i was intrigued by the idea of a female officer and though it’s not necessarily historically accurate, i was impressed with how believable the author made it seem for esther to be there. it didn’t feel nearly as out of place as i expected, and it was refreshing to read a book about the officers, when so many others seem to focus solely on either first or third class passengers.
it’s definitely heavily influenced by the movie - there were several passages where the characters used lines directly from it. i’ve always adored the movie so i didn’t find it annoying at all, but if you’re not a fan of james cameron’s titanic it may be a bother for you. i could have done without the characters who were clearly meant to be cal and rose, but they don’t take away from will and esther’s story at all.
i was totally riveted by this book and read it all in one sitting because i couldn’t put it down, in spite of knowing what was coming. an excellent read overall and definitely one i will be coming back to.
i was intrigued by the idea of a female officer and though it’s not necessarily historically accurate, i was impressed with how believable the author made it seem for esther to be there. it didn’t feel nearly as out of place as i expected, and it was refreshing to read a book about the officers, when so many others seem to focus solely on either first or third class passengers.
it’s definitely heavily influenced by the movie - there were several passages where the characters used lines directly from it. i’ve always adored the movie so i didn’t find it annoying at all, but if you’re not a fan of james cameron’s titanic it may be a bother for you. i could have done without the characters who were clearly meant to be cal and rose, but they don’t take away from will and esther’s story at all.
i was totally riveted by this book and read it all in one sitting because i couldn’t put it down, in spite of knowing what was coming. an excellent read overall and definitely one i will be coming back to.
May 1, 2019
Being a story that takes places in Titanic, I knew what to expect. I loved knowing the story from the crew’s point of view. Although I knew Esther was a fictional character, I didn’t knew of Murdoch’s fate so the whole time I was guessing what was going to happen.
The relationship between William and Esther was so unique, the enemies to lovers troupe, the tension between them. Even though their relationship blossomed in three or four days, the author really captured their feelings. I was rooting for them.
And I cried, at the end of the book, I was crying like every time I watch Titanic.
I also liked that Harold Lowe was a main character of the story. Two years ago I had the chance to visit Titanic’s Museum in Southampton and the first thing that captured my attention was a photograph of Lowe’s. His eyes seem to tell a story.
If you are a fan of Titanic, either the book or the movie, you’ll like this book! There’s also a minor romance (Rose and Jack’s alike)
The relationship between William and Esther was so unique, the enemies to lovers troupe, the tension between them. Even though their relationship blossomed in three or four days, the author really captured their feelings. I was rooting for them.
And I cried, at the end of the book, I was crying like every time I watch Titanic.
I also liked that Harold Lowe was a main character of the story. Two years ago I had the chance to visit Titanic’s Museum in Southampton and the first thing that captured my attention was a photograph of Lowe’s. His eyes seem to tell a story.
If you are a fan of Titanic, either the book or the movie, you’ll like this book! There’s also a minor romance (Rose and Jack’s alike)
April 25, 2023
This book brought back my 3rd grade obsession with The Titanic. This was such a beautiful love story with an amazing build up. The dynamic between the lovers was feisty at times but then Officer Murdoch would surprise us by being sweet. I wasn't sure how I would feel about having a story with a female officer, when that clearly was not an option aboard the Titanic. But this story is so beautifully written that it makes you believe it could have happened. You will fall in love with the two lead characters. I enjoyed how the story was told from multiple perspectives, giving you insight into multiple members of the crew. I have to admit, I cried the last two chapters because I knew what was coming. I look forward to reading any books from this author in the future.
February 7, 2024
Truly one of the best books I have ever read.
My curiosity was piqued when I learned that this book was originally fanfiction for the 1997 movie and, being a fan of both the movie and fanfiction, I immediately sought to read it. My expectations were greatly exceeded and I had to sit in complete silence for a while after I had finished reading just to process everything I was feeling.
Esther Bailey is a delight and I absolutely adore her as a character. The blending of fact and fiction is always fun and I felt like it was done is such a way that didn’t feel distracting or improbable. In fact, I became more invested in the ship and her crew because of this book and began to do more of my own research because of it.
It’s easy to tell what changes were made from the original fanfiction version of the story, but I was always very excited to run into them. Beaumont was able to change enough of those original details where, even though I was able to catch them, it never took me out of the story or felt distracting, eventually just blending in wonderfully with everything else.
My curiosity was piqued when I learned that this book was originally fanfiction for the 1997 movie and, being a fan of both the movie and fanfiction, I immediately sought to read it. My expectations were greatly exceeded and I had to sit in complete silence for a while after I had finished reading just to process everything I was feeling.
Esther Bailey is a delight and I absolutely adore her as a character. The blending of fact and fiction is always fun and I felt like it was done is such a way that didn’t feel distracting or improbable. In fact, I became more invested in the ship and her crew because of this book and began to do more of my own research because of it.
It’s easy to tell what changes were made from the original fanfiction version of the story, but I was always very excited to run into them. Beaumont was able to change enough of those original details where, even though I was able to catch them, it never took me out of the story or felt distracting, eventually just blending in wonderfully with everything else.
May 1, 2018
The book cover is a cartoon, but then this romance starts off like a cartoon. I enjoyed the historical facts about the Titanic and the afterward on the crew of the Titanic. Bailey and Will's relationship was explosive and at times I felt like I was in a dog fight. The fictional parts of this book is the romance and a woman officer aboard the Titanic. Otherwise, the book is well written and the story is enjoyable.
April 19, 2018
An exciting story, I really enjoyed this romance. Esther and Will are nice characters, and the plot is a sweet slow-burn. I like Esther in particular. I was never fully submitted however. This is a voluntary review of an advance reader copy.
January 22, 2025
5 billion stars. In fact, all the stars in the sky that Esther studied. My infatuation with the Titanic (ship not movie) started young, but still holds true to this day. I’ve read countless historical books that have allowed me to spit out all sorts of facts at a moments notice.
This book first caught my eye because, Titanic historical fiction? Sign me up, babe…but second, a female officer? Sold. Esther is spunky, witty, courageous - someone you can’t help but love. A loud mouth (in ALL the best ways) American amongst polished British officers. The banter was incredible.
This author has only written this book and you can just feel the tender care she took to getting the correct language, staying true to the timeline (while still having creative freedom), and all the extra details she provided the reader surrounding the actual event.
Lastly, I’ll say I am fiercely protective of First Officer Murdoch. History doesn’t depict him fairly when we’ve no proof of what truly happened that night regarding his actions. Countless eye witnesses with conflicting testimonies, and all this man is remembered for is being on watch when she hit the berg and allegedly shooting at people and finally turning the gun on himself. He deserves better.
In that same breath, I am just as protective over Ismay. The author paints his portrayal as the movie depicts - a coward jumping into a lifeboat when only women and children are permitted. This was disappointing when a sympathetic narrative was given to Murdoch and his story was altered, when Ismay’s details are just as ambiguous, part from entering a life boat and being saved but was given the standard rumor that he was selfish, entitled, and difficult.
All and all, Titanic fan or not, this was a wonderful novel. I will never be able to read another historical fiction book about the Titanic and love it more than I loved this one.
This book first caught my eye because, Titanic historical fiction? Sign me up, babe…but second, a female officer? Sold. Esther is spunky, witty, courageous - someone you can’t help but love. A loud mouth (in ALL the best ways) American amongst polished British officers. The banter was incredible.
This author has only written this book and you can just feel the tender care she took to getting the correct language, staying true to the timeline (while still having creative freedom), and all the extra details she provided the reader surrounding the actual event.
Lastly, I’ll say I am fiercely protective of First Officer Murdoch. History doesn’t depict him fairly when we’ve no proof of what truly happened that night regarding his actions. Countless eye witnesses with conflicting testimonies, and all this man is remembered for is being on watch when she hit the berg and allegedly shooting at people and finally turning the gun on himself. He deserves better.
In that same breath, I am just as protective over Ismay. The author paints his portrayal as the movie depicts - a coward jumping into a lifeboat when only women and children are permitted. This was disappointing when a sympathetic narrative was given to Murdoch and his story was altered, when Ismay’s details are just as ambiguous, part from entering a life boat and being saved but was given the standard rumor that he was selfish, entitled, and difficult.
All and all, Titanic fan or not, this was a wonderful novel. I will never be able to read another historical fiction book about the Titanic and love it more than I loved this one.
September 8, 2023
I've always had an odd fascination with the Titanic, so when I discovered this book years ago I bought it straight away, but I've been so hesitant to read it due to the emotions I know it would bring up.
I finally found the motivation to read it, and and as predicted it was definitely a heavy read. I absolutely loved the historical details and descriptions in this book, it was ao immersive and I could tell the author put so much work and passion into this book with the intricacies.
Almost all the characters are likeable, their dynamics were so neutral and realistic, and I adored the FMC Esther, the first female officer. Her determination and courage was admirable, and I loved her quirks and history. The MMC Will was so well developed too, seeing his hesitancy with Esther and their slow burn enemies to lovers relationship was sweet and funny at times. This book did have a few spicy scenes that were well written and well placed.
This is a historical fiction, so of course going into it you already know the disaster approaching, and the author did such a wonderful job of writing the heartbreaking scenes and describing the events unfolding. The deaths were all dealt with very well and had me sobbing, especially Esther and Will's.
The epilogue does soften the blow a bit with a bittersweet afterlife perspective with those who perished in the tragedy. At the back of the book there are various schedules, a map and some beautiful character art which were greatly appreciated. Overall, this book was fantastic and an absolute must read.
5/5 🌟
I finally found the motivation to read it, and and as predicted it was definitely a heavy read. I absolutely loved the historical details and descriptions in this book, it was ao immersive and I could tell the author put so much work and passion into this book with the intricacies.
Almost all the characters are likeable, their dynamics were so neutral and realistic, and I adored the FMC Esther, the first female officer. Her determination and courage was admirable, and I loved her quirks and history. The MMC Will was so well developed too, seeing his hesitancy with Esther and their slow burn enemies to lovers relationship was sweet and funny at times. This book did have a few spicy scenes that were well written and well placed.
This is a historical fiction, so of course going into it you already know the disaster approaching, and the author did such a wonderful job of writing the heartbreaking scenes and describing the events unfolding. The deaths were all dealt with very well and had me sobbing, especially Esther and Will's.
The epilogue does soften the blow a bit with a bittersweet afterlife perspective with those who perished in the tragedy. At the back of the book there are various schedules, a map and some beautiful character art which were greatly appreciated. Overall, this book was fantastic and an absolute must read.
5/5 🌟
February 12, 2025
OMG what can I say about this book. I completely fell in love with the characters and it’s the 1st book that has made me cry for sure. I shall be reading this book again in the future
May 27, 2025
Let me be very clear: it’s very obvious this started as Titanic (1997) fanfic. The “Jack and Rose” storyline is there, but more as a B-plot—tucked into the background with just enough changes to keep it from being a direct copy. That familiarity was really the only thing that didn’t work for me. At times, it pulled me out of the story.
That said… I LOVED IT.
It made me cry, made me laugh, made me kick my feet. Enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, doomed romance—everything I live for. I knew from early on this was going to be a 5-star read. I’ve always had an affinity for sad love stories and anything even loosely tied to Titanic.
Now I’m stuck in a brutal book hangover and all I can think is: what do I even read now?
That said… I LOVED IT.
It made me cry, made me laugh, made me kick my feet. Enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, doomed romance—everything I live for. I knew from early on this was going to be a 5-star read. I’ve always had an affinity for sad love stories and anything even loosely tied to Titanic.
Now I’m stuck in a brutal book hangover and all I can think is: what do I even read now?
April 3, 2023
I expected nothing and was pleasantly surprised.
When I read the summary I expected a cheesy romance, with an unbelievable and cringe setting and an obvious ending...I was wronged and hooked after the free 40 first pages and had to buy it.
The book is written like a fanfiction, but in a good Ao3 and not Wattpad way. I was surprised of the main character, who was an independent and cheeky woman that for the first time (with these types of characters) wasn't annoying the living hell out of me. She fights her way in a mans world while staying a believable human with feelings that can't resist everything. Made her really like able
I love the little insights into the officers life on board. And I couldn't believe myself when I thoroughly enjoyed a cheesy romance (who knew ties could be that romantic)
I was surprised by the fact, that she killed of Bailey by the end of it. I really wasn't expecting it. But the POV from Lowe and Lights after the sinking was an interesting view on the things and makes you remember they were real people too with traumatic experience behind them
The book had it's flaws of course. I didn't really like the sudden near rape of the mc and the handling about it afterwards, or the fact that Callum Lockerbie was painfully obvious based on James Camerons Caldon Hockley and his financé having a Jack and Rose lovestory with Harold Bride (even if that was a bit cute tbh). Also the death of the mc and Murdoch were a bit flatly written after all that well detailed writing. Also... The way Esther is shot by Wilde at the end...wtf? XD
Anyways, good book with good research behind it and likeable characters. Written in a way that brought the real heros of Titanic back to life and made them real (even though the smut made me cringe a bit tbh)
When I read the summary I expected a cheesy romance, with an unbelievable and cringe setting and an obvious ending...I was wronged and hooked after the free 40 first pages and had to buy it.
The book is written like a fanfiction, but in a good Ao3 and not Wattpad way. I was surprised of the main character, who was an independent and cheeky woman that for the first time (with these types of characters) wasn't annoying the living hell out of me. She fights her way in a mans world while staying a believable human with feelings that can't resist everything. Made her really like able
I love the little insights into the officers life on board. And I couldn't believe myself when I thoroughly enjoyed a cheesy romance (who knew ties could be that romantic)
I was surprised by the fact, that she killed of Bailey by the end of it. I really wasn't expecting it. But the POV from Lowe and Lights after the sinking was an interesting view on the things and makes you remember they were real people too with traumatic experience behind them
The book had it's flaws of course. I didn't really like the sudden near rape of the mc and the handling about it afterwards, or the fact that Callum Lockerbie was painfully obvious based on James Camerons Caldon Hockley and his financé having a Jack and Rose lovestory with Harold Bride (even if that was a bit cute tbh). Also the death of the mc and Murdoch were a bit flatly written after all that well detailed writing. Also... The way Esther is shot by Wilde at the end...wtf? XD
Anyways, good book with good research behind it and likeable characters. Written in a way that brought the real heros of Titanic back to life and made them real (even though the smut made me cringe a bit tbh)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 20, 2022
This was a bit of a slog, which is unfortunate because the concept is fun. The writing is serviceable at best, the dialogue is a chore to read (if I have to read the word 'lass' one more time I'm going to heave,) the characters are uninspired, and people often behave in ways that feel heavy-handedly designed to create certain situations or dynamics, not in ways that feel natural, and often isn't at all appropriate to the era. It's also important to mention this book is literally fan fiction. I enjoy fanfic, and there's admittedly some gray area with Titanic considering it was a real historical event as well as a famous and popular movie; but this is, plain and simple, a Murdoch/OC fic blatantly based on the 1997 movie. There are word-for-word lines of dialogue, near-identical plot points and scenes, and physical descriptions that match the movie's cast rather than the real people. Admittedly the cover artwork is beautiful, but very clearly of the actor. Charging money for your blatant fanfic is a bit dodgy, particularly when it's so mediocre.
November 19, 2019
I read this story in its fanfiction.net days and really enjoyed the relationship development and characterization. It's a long book but I never found parts where it dragged or got boring, and it felt historically realistic. I was surprised to see it in print (I'm assuming self-published) because I do remember bits of it (not enough to be distracting, but still) pulled from the movie. I take off a star for that as far as this being salable now. I'm not sure if the author edited out the movie allusions to publish it, but judging from other reviews by people who didn't read it as a fan fiction, it sounds like she didn't.
No other complaints here. I don't get people whining about the sex scenes, it's clearly labeled as a romance and none of the writing style suggests it's meant to be PG. Grow some adult skin, people.
No other complaints here. I don't get people whining about the sex scenes, it's clearly labeled as a romance and none of the writing style suggests it's meant to be PG. Grow some adult skin, people.
August 29, 2020
This book ended up pleasing me more than I thought it would. I love how the majority of the characters were portrayed, such as James Moody for example. He treated Ester Bailey with as much kindness as I would’ve expected him to if she were real. I love how there’s little hints to the movie and lines from it. I love how none of the officers were left out or glossed over like I’ve seen in other works. I’m also glad that the lookouts and wireless operators were included. The pacing of the book is nice. While there were a few minor historical inaccuracies, the majority of the story stayed true to the actual events that took place. I will definitely be keeping this book and giving it a reread in the future.
August 31, 2024
I loved reading this book- so much so that I read it a second time as soon as I finished it. Esther is a strong heroine, and I loved reading from her perspective. Giselle Beaumont brought the world to life, which drew me into the story. The first part of the story describes the Titanic, and it felt like I was there. While I could tell it was based on the 1997 film Titanic (both due to the cover art and almost exacting scenes), I found it gave more life to the story. I have already read the book twice this year, and I can't wait to read it a third time.
May 5, 2018
A little too familiar
While I enjoyed this book, I couldn't help but read certain parts of the book - especially the sinking -and thinking how much it closely resembled the sinking in the 1997 film.
While I enjoyed this book, I couldn't help but read certain parts of the book - especially the sinking -and thinking how much it closely resembled the sinking in the 1997 film.
March 28, 2020
DNF. I really wanted to like this book but the explicit sexual content goes against everything I've been taught. I was hoping this would be a tasteful romance like others I've read but it was disappointingly not. Taking God's holy name in vain multiple times was severely unnecessary too.
April 18, 2025
First started by Fifty Shades of Grey, a new iteration in the grand tradition of popular fanfiction stories-to-novel pipeline has emerged with the release of On the Edge of Daylight. This story has everything; a plucky not-like-the-other-girls main character, a stoic (and very sexy) first officer, and a tragic, larger than life disaster pulling the two ever closer to their fate.
It was really nice to be dropped onto Titanic in a new perspective. Instead of living on the ship as a passenger and exploring the opulence of the ship in all its splendor, you really only get little glimpses of the beauty of Titanic as you follow Esther and the rest of Titanic's officers through their daily rounds. It's a generous peak behind the curtain to celebrate the men who kept the ship in running order right to the bitter end.
The author does a nice job of weaving together survivor testimony, nods to both A Night to Remember (1958) and Titanic (1997) without making it too derivative. Sometimes, it felt like the author was trying to use as many cheesy ocean puns as possible, and there were a few moments where I felt like Esther became a little too Mary-Sue for my liking. Otherwise, the book is a fun addition to every Titanic nerd's growing library.
It was really nice to be dropped onto Titanic in a new perspective. Instead of living on the ship as a passenger and exploring the opulence of the ship in all its splendor, you really only get little glimpses of the beauty of Titanic as you follow Esther and the rest of Titanic's officers through their daily rounds. It's a generous peak behind the curtain to celebrate the men who kept the ship in running order right to the bitter end.
The author does a nice job of weaving together survivor testimony, nods to both A Night to Remember (1958) and Titanic (1997) without making it too derivative. Sometimes, it felt like the author was trying to use as many cheesy ocean puns as possible, and there were a few moments where I felt like Esther became a little too Mary-Sue for my liking. Otherwise, the book is a fun addition to every Titanic nerd's growing library.
June 22, 2025
Kindle Unlimited. Let’s go.
Firstly, the cover. At first glance, it was really pretty. Then, I noticed the guy’s face; I know that’s the actor from the film. That can’t be okay to use, at all. But the author can get away with it since this isn’t a bestseller that’s getting everyone’s attention. So, from the cover, I am gonna guess this was a fanfiction that they turned into a novel; quite a number of people do that these days.
This is definitely a fanfiction; it takes scenes straight from the film, just changes who it happens to. I’m done.
Firstly, the cover. At first glance, it was really pretty. Then, I noticed the guy’s face; I know that’s the actor from the film. That can’t be okay to use, at all. But the author can get away with it since this isn’t a bestseller that’s getting everyone’s attention. So, from the cover, I am gonna guess this was a fanfiction that they turned into a novel; quite a number of people do that these days.
This is definitely a fanfiction; it takes scenes straight from the film, just changes who it happens to. I’m done.
May 30, 2025
A truly beautiful story. As an avid reader of all things Titanic this is by far my favorite historical fiction that takes place aboard the ship. It captures the same blend of facts and fiction that made Cameron’s Titanic film pull so many of us into an obsession with all things Titanic.
August 27, 2024
The frickin saddest book I’ve read in a long time. Omg.
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