Wartime novel sees protagonist seek solutions in Arisaig
A deep a long running love of the West Coast has inspired Ediburgh-based author David Munro to make picturesque Arisaig a feature in his latest novel.
A historical fiction thriller, Upheaval is about a young aspiring actress called Claudine Dubois who after being spotted by a German film producer in Paris and offered a lucrative contract, quits the French capital for Berlin.
Once there, she meets charming Ernst Vasel and a relationship ensues. It is 1912 and life is good in
the German capital but events will soon cause economic, social and political turmoil.
The Nazi Party come to power and Ernst voices disapproval and is imprisoned. Their son, Claus, a student at university in Berlin, is angered when his mother receives abuse whilst working for a Jewish
shop owner.
To avoid Claus being arrested, Claudine and and her son flee the country. With another war looming, French agents want Claus to return to Berlin, resume his studies and act as a spy.
Claus travels to Scotland and the SOE location near Arisaig to receive training. Whilst there, he encounters interesting male and female colleagues with a view to assist defeating the German threat.
A frequent visitor to the area Upheaval author David travelled to Arisaig for book research purposes and while he was there had the pleasure of being interviewed by a lady at the village hall.
This featured not only details about the book but also his writing and research techniques. In recognition of this occasion David has included a scene in the village hall relating to an incident involving a German spy.
"My love for the West Highlands never stops," he told us.
"Not only in terms of writing, but also visiting book events where I discuss my novels with a West Highland connection. Mallaig, Fort William, Oban and now Arisaig and eleven events in total.
"My first journey to the region was a school trip from Edinburgh. The journey by train captivated me and over decades has not diminished.
"Indeed, in the novel, Claus takes the train from Glasgow to Arisaig.
For more information on David and Upheaval, check out his blog at: www.timejigsaw.com.
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