Literary Debut: Alex Cutts' Novel 'The White City' Draws from Personal Quest for Father
Manchester-born author Alex Cutts has unveiled his debut novel, The White City, a compelling narrative deeply rooted in his own life experiences. The book, set for release on February 28, chronicles a protagonist's journey to Peru in search of his absent father, mirroring Cutts' own real-life expedition.
A Tale of Identity and Discovery
The story follows Edward, a man trapped in a prematurely middle-aged existence in rural Norfolk, whose world begins to crumble around him. Determined to solve the mystery of his father's absence and fueled by a newfound romantic connection, Edward travels to the bright white city of Arequipa, high in the Peruvian Andes. What starts as a simple missing person search quickly transforms into a profound exploration of self and heritage.
Cutts explains, "The autobiographical element of the book was my own trip to Peru to try to find my biological father. Some of the details of that trip are described in the novel, and that central 'story' was my main initial inspiration."
Generational Echoes and Unforeseen Revelations
Interwoven with Edward's present-day quest is the narrative of Judith, his mother, whose footsteps traced the same streets twenty-five years earlier. Her story reveals how life can take unexpected turns, with choices that reverberate across generations. As Edward immerses himself in the magic of Peru and its people, he pieces together fragments of his life, leading to transformative realizations.
"Once I explored it in more detail, I saw that there was much more than just a straightforward search," Cutts notes. "The story tries to illuminate my own challenges of having undefined roots, and the different influences that nature and nurture exert over one's personality."
A Journey of Personal Transformation
The novel delves into how such a journey can fundamentally alter a person. Cutts describes, "The central character's experience in Peru changes him fundamentally, or else it gives him access to the half of him that has previously lain dormant, and subsequently makes him feel more 'complete', and confident in his unique self."
He adds that including Judith's perspective enriches the narrative, illustrating how life echoes through time and providing crucial family context. "Whether or not Edward finds his father is almost incidental in some ways – so you'll have to read the book to find out what happens!"
Author's Background and Creative Pursuits
Originally from Manchester, Alex Cutts has led a diverse life, with periods spent in Peru, Tanzania, and Edinburgh before settling in Norfolk. Holding a first-class degree in fine art, he has long nurtured a creative passion for writing and music, all while building a successful career in finance over nearly two decades.
The White City marks his entry into the literary world, blending personal history with fictional exploration to create a poignant tale of search, discovery, and self-acceptance.
