Massey College, Toronto, Canada. May 7, 2026.
Dear friends and fellow book-lovers,
I am delighted to announce the release of a follow-up book to my first novel, “Perdita.”
The second book is titled “Nearness of the Wild” and continues Marged Brice’s story. Both books are now part of a series: “The Lighthouse Chronicles.” A third book in the series is coming out in the Spring of 2027. (Note: it is not necessary to either read or re-read “Perdita” to enjoy the second book.)
I have also just released an Anniversary Edition of “Perdita.” This anniversary edition includes excerpts which were edited out of the first edition, namely in the conversations between Garth and Clare.
A launch for “Nearness” was held in Toronto, Ontario, in May. Photos of the launch—as well as audio versions of my (short) speech and the MC’s introductory remarks—are posted below. Thank you to everyone who attended, both in the flesh and in spirit. Your good wishes and support are greatly appreciated!
—Hilary Scharper




“Jane Eyre goes through Wuthering Heights and ends up at Georgian Bay …”
“My novels grow out of a relationship with a landscape…”




Raising a glass…
“To the landscapes we know and cherish, be they urban, rural, or wild, and the mutual love that connects us to them. To beloved landscapes—and warm spots!”
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