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Post by Mike Powell on Sept 15, 2008 10:01:14 GMT -6
Set in Fort Benton in northern Montana in 1870, as well as England and Canada, this novel by Guy Vanderhaeghe is perhaps two thirds Comac McCarthy, one third Jane Austen. The story of two English brothers come to the frontier in search of a third who has disappeared is told by about six main characters, sometimes in flashback. When I realized this was to be the structure I thought it doubtful I would plow through. Never lost, never confused as to narrator, I could hardly put the damn thing down. It is the best novel I've read in several years; a good story, compelling characters and written with a style that never left me tempted to skim. It also sparked an interest in the Canadian frontier I had not entertained before; from the 1871 fight on the Belly River between Cree and Blackfoot (the last great Indian battle?) to the Metis Rebellion. Highly recommended.
Yours,
Mike Powell
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