The people of Inverrane
Characters
Lead · Heir to Inverrane
Eleanor “Nell” Mercer
Solicitor. Inheritor. Outsider. · 39
A controlled, dryly funny London corporate solicitor who inherits 51% of the hotel. She plans to sell it — and has buried her memories of 2008.
“I solve problems for a living. This is different.”
Co-lead · General Manager
Cara Campbell
Island-born. Never left. · 34
Athletic, auburn-haired, she swims in the sea every morning. She remembers everything about 2008 — and recognises Nell the moment she steps off the ferry.
“You don't get to forget this place. Not twice.”
Reception · Front of house
Morag Fraser
Sees everything. Says little. · 61
Deadpan and perceptive, the long-serving heart of the hotel. She has quietly mothered Cara since Fiona died, and knows Nell at once.
“Room seven. You'll remember the way.”
Remembered
Elizabeth
Nell's late aunt · Former owner
Complicated. She secretly agreed to sell in 2008, then spent years making amends. She survives in photographs and two letters.
Fiona Campbell
Cara's late mother
She discovered the Calder sale and confronted Elizabeth. Her car left the coastal road in the storm of 17 November 2008.