Malta's history has served as an incomparable backdrop to countless novels in literature. Looking to the past century, though, there is one glaring omission: 1950s Malta, the decade before Independence, is severely under-represented.

A manuscript discovered by Merlin Publishers is now seeking to redress this omission. In Lazzaretto is the debut novel by Jenny Wilson, a former sub-editor with The Sunday Times (UK). Wilson lived in Malta in the 1950s when her father, a naval officer, was posted here.

The novel belongs to a burgeoning sub-category of Maltese literature written in English, among which it is destined to stand out.

In Lazzaretto is a hypnotic tale of living and falling in love in Malta within a society bound into tight hierarchical conventions. The scene is set in early 1950s Malta. The glitter of the Naval Base holds sway in the island's harbours and palazzos. But behind the facades lie secrets and spies. In a society ruled by protocol, change is feared.

Philip Wayland, a young writer, is beguiled into helping rule-defying cousins Maddie and Debba Shaftoe. Betrayal follows. Torn between passion for Maddie and compassion for Debba, Wayland challenges Alick Hoty, the naval officer he holds responsible for their downfall. Hoyt, a man who sweeps all signs of change into virtual lazzarettos, fights back.

British Malta closes ranks, unaware that in a decade Independence will come and it will vanish.

What further makes this novel so special is the mastery of the craft that Wilson displays. Her richly embroidered writing brings fifties Malta sharply to life: the splendid Rabat and Mdina palazzos, the British Naval parties and soirees with their strictly upheld hierarchy, the lazy summers, the heat and attendant intrigue.

In Lazzaretto is out now, available from all bookshops or online directly from the publishers at www.merlinpublishers.com