A historical novel set by Niagara Falls (a place I've never visited), a believable love story, and resourceful and fascinating characters: I agree with Barnes and Noble that The Day the Falls Stood Still can accurately be called "unputdownable."
In 1915, Beth must cope with her father's job loss, leading to a real change in social position for their family. Her sister Isabel falls into a deep depression, Mom makes a living as a seamstress, and Beth leaves her private school. These circumstances kick off the action, and the plot follows Beth as she falls in love, marries and has children.
Tom Cole, a natural riverman, is another main character, whose knowledge of the river and the falls makes him legendary, as well as indispensable in the community. Tom is based on a historical Niagara Falls personality, making the setting and characters more compelling.
And, there are lots of themes and discussable topics. The history covers World War I in Canada and the US, as well as French/English conflicts in Canada. One of the main conflicts---whether Niagara Falls should be harnessed for electricity, even though its natural beauty and power will be sacrificed--reflects modern concerns about the losses we may experience from any type of progress. The characters wonder about what constitutes true love, and about maintaining faith in God.
I thought The Day the Falls Stood Still was a lovely book, easy to read, but worthwhile, too.
Thanks so much for the review and for spreading the word about my debut. It's especially lovely coming from a librarian.
Posted by: Cathy Marie Buchanan | December 07, 2011 at 03:50 PM