Tybee Rhapsody (Paperback or Softback)

Gertrude Kelly, a daughter of Irish immigrants in Savannah, Georgia, yearns to break free from the constraints of her time and become a concert pianist and composer. Facing societal pressures and personal turmoil in the early 1900s, her journey takes her from the lush landscapes of Dublin to the serene shores of Tybee Island, where her dreams seem both tantalizingly close and heartbreakingly out of reach.

Amidst a backdrop of stunning natural beauty of Tybee, Gertrude becomes the caretaker of a children’s summer camp during the winter months. Here, she learns to survive in solitude, foraging for food and navigating her emotions. As she finds herself entwined with a colorful cast of characters—a sea captain, a blind piano tuner, a young boy, and a Gullah woman—Gertrude begins to uncover hidden strength and inspiration, sneaking in piano practices during Sunday afternoons.

But her quest is not without its challenges. Loneliness and regret shadow her every step as she grapples with the consequences of her past choices. Can Gertrude rise above society's biases against women musicians? Will she discover a way to mend the relationships she has strained and embrace her true self? As her Irish roots beckon, Gertrude must confront her deepest fears and desires to forge a new path towards realizing her dreams.

"Tybee Rhapsody" is a poignant tale of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of music to heal and unite. Join Gertrude on her journey of transformation as she seeks not only to fulfill her dreams but also to find her place in a world that has not always welcomed her.