Dimensions
142 x 224 x 26mm
Two intertwined stories of love crossing frontiers, set against the vibrant backdrop of Zanzibar.
An illusive place where nothing is as it seems . . .
In 1963 Carla Jackson was thirty-four and Zanzibar became independent. Even so, nothing really changed: Empire still haunted the exotic streets and Carla continued to veil her unconventional marriage with a splendid house, drinks parties and visits to the Darajani Fort. Then revolution struck, forcing her to abandon her charmed existence.
Forty years later, Carla returns to the scented alleyways of Stone Town and is reacquainted with a dangerous past and a long-lost friend, Mussa. Londoner Francesca Wade strikes up a friendship with the older woman and their relationship deepens as history tangles with the present.
Gradually the beautiful, stifling world in which both are hiding is revealed. But how far can an outsider ever really penetrate this mysterious place?
Set against a background of relentless heat and tropical colour, Nick Maes' second novel is a captivating story of sunsets and circles, the power of friendship and of seeking out the good in life, no matter how late in the day.
