The Solitary of Juan Fernandez, or the Real Robinson Crusoe

In the bustling coastal town of St. Andrew, the Royal Salmon inn has long been a gathering place for sailors, lairds, and locals alike. Run by the charismatic Catherine Felton—known affectionately as “pretty Kitty”—the establishment thrives on her lively spirit, hearty ale, and a reputation that outlasts the fleeting charms of youth. As the centuries turn, Catherine finds herself at a crossroads, balancing the demands of her thriving business with the ever‑increasing pressure of suitors who see both profit and companionship in her.

Into this familiar rhythm steps a weather‑worn sailor, his face marked by a deep sabre scar, who arrives not for drink but with a proposal that could change everything. He seeks a partner for an upcoming voyage, hoping to secure a loyal wife to share the quiet moments by firelight and the uncertainties of the sea. Catherine’s surprised reaction hints at a new chapter, where personal desire and the call of adventure begin to tug at the very foundations of her well‑established life.