New Year's Wake: A Terran Empire story

"New Year's Wake: A Terran Empire Story" by Ann Wilson is a science fiction tale from the early 1990s that imagines Earth's future, zeroing in on the Isle of Skye during a fateful New Year's Day, and tackles duty, identity, and community against the sunset of an empire. The narrative centers on Susan Lindner, who survives a violent plane accident and finds refuge with the kind MacGregor family, whose festive gathering becomes her haven. Her world is transformed by the news of the Emperor's death, which thrusts Susan into the role of Empress during tragedy and disarray. We are reminded of the importance of human bonds and support when Susan extends an invitation to the MacGregors to her coronation, thus echoing the kindness they offered her. Balancing the weight of an office with tragic personal challenges, the book weaves a story of human resilience and the will to move forward.