A warm, reflective and uplifting memoir about healing wounds, reclaiming a voice and discovering freedom through the open water.

The open water. To the uninitiated, it represents the unknown, an expanse of mystery and uncertainty. But to those who brave the wild waters, it is so much more. A space to heal. A place of communion. A balm to quieten the mind, soothe the soul, and allow you to reconnect with the world and yourself.

Emma Simpson discovered wild swimming after a period of immense pain. Lost in grief, disillusioned with life, and feeling increasingly untethered from the world, she instinctively felt the pull of the water. There she found an unexpected source of hope and strength, a profound sense of connection, and a glorious sisterhood of women - each with their own remarkable stories to tell.

Interweaving the tales of these inspirational women with reflections on her own experiences, Emma explores themes ranging from devastating loss to birth and rebirth, and from chronic illness to body confidence. Whether describing the taste of an iceberg or a kiss from a baby whale, Breaking Waves is a love letter to womanhood and the open water. It's also a celebration of community, renewal and the power of writing your own life story. Above all else, it is a joyous celebration of going with the flow.

"Emma's courage - in facing grief, motherhood and the wide cold ocean - is deeply inspiring. The stories that she shares in Breaking Waves show that women connect with water for as many reasons as there are things that make us human. Dive in and let this book carry you out to the horizon of your life and safely back to shore" - Beth Kempton, bestselling author of Wabi Sabi: Japanese Wisdom for a Perfectly Imperfect Life

"A heart-lifting and heart-breaking celebration of women - their strength, their vulnerabilities, their bodies, their courage. A real life exploration of how connection with the water will give us comfort, hope and the inspiration to give birth to a new wild life when someone or something has died and nothing makes sense any more" - Suzy Walker

"If you enjoyed Freya Bromley's The Tidal Year, you'll love this. Perfect for those of us who need cold water to heal." - Emma Gannon, author of Olive

"Breaking Waves explores the transformative power of water, where the cold embrace of the sea becomes a journey of self-discovery, healing, and connection. Through the open water, Emma reveals the unifying force that holds us and encourages us to honour all parts of ourselves. This book is a testament to the power of collectivities and how vital it is to come together and celebrate the beauty of our differences at times of upheaval and loss." - Easkey Britton, author of Saltwater in the Blood

"A beautiful book which reminded me of the spiritual power and simple beauty of water. I loved it." - Clover Stroud, author of The Wild Other

"This is a beautifully written book which explores the visceral healing power of water. I loved it." - Louise Minchin, author of Fearless: Adventures with Extraordinary Women