While waiting for her Australian visa to arrive, Jane leaves Zimbabwe to spend a year in England caring for the eccentric Mr Hazey. ‘You have to wear a seatbelt, Mr Hazey, it’s the law.’ ‘Well, I don’t.’ Jane is tempted to return to Africa immediately, but stubborn pride makes her linger, long enough to meet Dr Bower. An awkward attraction develops, and several colourful characters embark on the bumpy rollercoaster ride – an outdated stately home – haunted secret garden – hidden past and impossible love affair.
Stella grew up in the beautiful African country, Zimbabwe. She is the youngest of a close family, now scattered all over the world. One of her fondest memories is sitting around a log fire under the African sky with friends and family. Together with her husband and two children, she lived in remote rural areas during the Rhodesian terrorist bush war, before emigrating to South Africa. Widowed in her 40s, she later moved to England, then on to Australia to be closer to her daughters and grandchildren. Her mature years have given her the opportunity to share life’s experiences, ensuring the humour and adventure of her full, sometimes troubled journey, is not forgotten.