Retired Professor Pens Captivating Historical Novel

A retired Lancaster University professor has embarked on a new literary journey, crafting his debut novel that elegantly weaves love, slavery, ambition, and medicine against the vibrant backdrops of the Caribbean and London in the 18th century. John Whitehead’s compelling narrative, “The Three Promises of John Coakley Lettsom,” follows the intriguing life of a man born to Quaker parents in the British Virgin Islands in 1744.

Young Lettsom was brought to Lancaster by Capt William Lindow, finding himself amidst the Rawlinson family, known for their involvement in the slave trade. Despite such beginnings, Lettsom rose to prominence as a leading London doctor and became a signatory of the first petition to Parliament advocating for the abolition of the slave trade.

Whitehead’s fascination with Lettsom began with the latter’s claim of freeing 50 enslaved plantation workers after inheriting his father’s estate, an act that left him penniless. This intrigue deepened upon discovering Lettsom’s simultaneous purchase of two young individuals, Sam and Teresa, from his stepfather. Sixteen years later, Lettsom, now a family man, corresponded with a colleague, enclosing sweets from Teresa and praising her beauty.

Whitehead’s novel intertwines the factual account of Lettsom with an imaginative narrative of Teresa, whose historical records are sparse. After a distinguished 40-year career in medical statistics, Whitehead embraced the creative freedom of fiction, crafting a story that balances historical facts with imaginative storytelling.

Profits from this novel will support Anti-Slavery International, underscoring the book’s commitment to human rights. “The Three Promises of John Coakley Lettsom,” priced at £11.99, is available at local venues and online.

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