Pavilion in the Clouds: A new stand-alone novel

In 1938, the Ferguson family lives in a bungalow in Ceylon, where Bella is suspicious of her governess, Miss White. After an unfortunate series of events, a confrontation ensues, and a gunshot rings off. Years later, Bella returns to Scotland and faces her past, hoping to find out what happened between her father and Miss White and reconcile the guilt she has lived with.

Format: Hardback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 05 August 2021
Publisher: Birlinn General

It is 1938, and the British Empire is nearing its end. The Ferguson family resides in a bungalow high up in the green hills above the plains of Ceylon, under a vast blue sky. The family consists of Bella, an eight-year-old girl with a precocious nature, her father Henry, the owner of Pitlochry, a tea plantation, and her mother Virginia. The story revolves around the Pavilion in the Clouds, a picturesque setting nestled within the wilderness. However, beneath the serene facade, a sense of unease permeates the air.

Bella harbours suspicions towards her governess, Miss Whites, and her curiosity ignites her mother's imagination. A series of unfortunate events leads to a confrontation between Bella and Miss White, culminating in a gunshot ringing through the hills.

Years later, Bella returns to Scotland, attending university in St Andrews. As she navigates her academic journey, her past resurfaces, haunting her once again. Will Bella finally uncover the truth behind the events that transpired between her father and Miss White? And can the weight of guilt she has carried for years be lifted by the long-overdue apology she seeks?

The story unfolds with a sense of intrigue and suspense, as Bella delves deeper into the mysteries of her past. The characters are well-developed, each with their own unique motivations and conflicts. The setting, with its lush greenery and picturesque landscapes, adds to the atmospheric allure of the narrative.

As Bella confronts her demons and seeks closure, the reader is drawn into her emotional journey. The story explores themes of love, betrayal, and forgiveness, and how they shape the lives of individuals and families. The ending is both satisfying and emotionally charged, leaving the reader with a sense of hope and resolution.

In conclusion, "The Pavilion in the Clouds" is a captivating tale that transports readers to a bygone era of the British Empire. With its rich historical backdrop and well-crafted characters, the story offers a thoughtful exploration of the human condition. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to evoke emotions and provoke thought.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 143 x 222 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781846975899