Not George Washington — an Autobiographical Novel

In this gently comic autobiographical novel, Margaret Goodwin narrates the first days of her impending marriage to James Orlebar Cloyster, a man whose arrival she almost predicts while swimming the cool waters of Fermain Bay on Guernsey. A chance rescue—her pulling a drowning stranger from a capsized dinghy—sparks a witty, slightly awkward conversation that hints at the chemistry and social nuances that will shape their future together. Margaret’s keen eye for detail captures the island’s breezy cliffs, the ritual of her morning swims, and the subtle dance of propriety and desire that defines their early encounters.

As the story unfolds, readers are drawn into Margaret’s reflective voice, a blend of affection, modesty, and humor, while the setting itself becomes a character, framing a romance that feels both timeless and grounded in everyday moments. The narrative balances lighthearted banter with a sincere exploration of how strangers become partners, offering a charming glimpse into love’s first, unexpected plunge.