The Nebuly Coat

"The Nebuly Coat" by John Meade Falkner is a mystery exploring the shadows of the past in a small, quiet village. Set in the 1860s, the story centers on Westray, an architect who comes to the village of Cullerne to restore the local church. Westray finds himself caught up in old legends and secretive local dramas connected to a death and family history. As he works on the church, he meets intriguing characters like Canon Parkyn and Mr. Sharnall, who expose clues about the past and the strange "nebuly coat," a symbol important to the town's history. The beginning of the story creates a feeling of suspense and curiosity as Westray navigates his work and these strange relationships.