The Floating City

The Floating City by Pamela Ball, published by Penguin Publishing Group on July 21, 2003, is a literary work that unfolds in Honolulu during a hot morning in 1895. The story begins with the discovery of a dead man on the beach, prompting Eva Hanson, a fortune-teller with a troubled past, to delve into the mystery surrounding his death. This narrative explores the complex political landscape of the Hawaiian Islands at a pivotal moment in history, revealing the transformative impact of American missionaries, sugar plantations, and the U.S. military.

Readers will find a rich tapestry of experiences woven through the lives of Eva and the imprisoned Queen Lili’uokalani, whose fate is intertwined with the unfolding events. The book presents a blend of mystery and historical fiction, highlighting themes of rebellion and passion against the backdrop of a changing society. With 272 pages of poetic prose, The Floating City offers an insightful look into a largely overlooked period in Hawaiian history, inviting readers to engage with the characters and their struggles in a time of significant upheaval.