Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand is a character-driven story set in the picturesque English village of Edgecombe St. Mary. The story revolves around the life of the widowed Major Ernest Pettigrew, a retired and principled army officer, who finds himself grappling with the challenges of aging and the evolving values of modern society.

The Major’s life takes an unexpected turn when he forms an unlikely friendship with Mrs. Jasmina Ali, a Pakistani shopkeeper. Despite the differences in their cultural backgrounds and the disapproval of their tight-knit community, the two discover a shared love for literature and a mutual understanding that transcends societal expectations.

Simonson’s writing skillfully navigates themes of tradition, change, and the complexities of human relationships, providing a thoughtful and nuanced perspective on issues of race, class, and the power of personal connection. The novel also delves into the Major’s journey of self-discovery and the transformative power of open-mindedness and companionship.