The Last Summer

Effie Gillies lives on the remote Scottish island of St Kilda. Her serene existence is upended when Lord Sholto, heir to the Earl of Dumfries, arrives on the island. An instant attraction blossoms between them, leading to a week filled with shared dreams and whispered promises. However, their romance is abruptly interrupted by a fierce storm that changes everything.

Three months later, the islanders face evacuation, leaving behind their cherished home for a new life on the mainland. Effie finds herself offered a position on the Earl's estate, thrusting her back into Sholto's orbit. As they rekindle their connection, they must confront the stark differences in their backgrounds and social standing, which threaten to complicate their relationship further.

Set against the wild beauty of the Scottish Isles, The Last Summer elegantly explores themes of love, loss, and the struggle for personal identity amidst societal expectations. The writing style is rich and evocative, immersing readers in the sights and sounds of island life while capturing the emotional depth of the characters’ experiences.

Fans of authors like Rosamunde Pilcher and Victoria Hislop will find echoes of their work in Gillies' poignant narrative, as it weaves together the complexities of human connection and the enduring impact of place on the heart. The story invites readers to ponder what it means to belong and the sacrifices one must make for love.