Fuerteventura, 1901. The island, just off the coast of Africa, is in the grip of a severe drought. As merchant and journalist Javier Morales campaigns to reforest the island, Famara, the daughter of an out of work farm labourer, is facing starvation.

She has a thirst of her own: she wants to learn to read. When Famara and Javier's paths intertwine, neither of them can foresee the heartache that lies ahead.

Every day, Famara stands on the rooftop of her home and sweeps the dust that blows in from Africa. Gazing at the horizon, she wonders what lies beyond as a new longing grows in her heart. A longing for a man and a life she knows she cannot have.

Meanwhile, Javier is consumed with desire and guilt. He sees in his protégé hope of a better future for the island. Yet his family stand opposed.

With a beautiful and heart rending love story at its centre, Isobel Blackthorn's FACING AFRICA depicts the struggle for change and autonomy during catastrophic times.