J. Meade Falkner 
The Nebuly Coat 

First published in 1902, J. Meade Falkner’s “The Nebuly Coat” is a vintage suspense novel that tells the story of Edward Westray, a young architect who finds himself in the remote town of Cullerne where he is to oversee restorative work on Cullerne Minster. After becoming embroiled in the day-to-day life of the town, he begins to hear rumours concerning the claim to the title of Lord Blandamer. When the new Lord Blandamer arrives, our protagonist has an inkling that he is perhaps not what he seems. John Meade Falkner (1858–1932) was an English novelist and poet, best known for his 1898 novel, “Moonfleet”. As well as being an accomplished writer, Falkner was also a successful businessman, becoming chairman of the weapons manufacturer Armstrong Whitworth in the First World War.