The Last Crossing

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Set in the late nineteenth century across the American and Canadian West and Victorian England, this sweeping tale follows Charles and Addington Gaunt as they search for their missing brother, Simon, in the wilds of the American West. Charles, a disillusioned artist, and Addington, a disgraced military captain, hire the enigmatic Jerry Potts, a guide with a painful past, to navigate the challenging landscape. Their party expands to include Caleb Ayto, a sycophantic journalist, and Lucy Stoveall, a wise woman seeking revenge for her sister’s murder. They are later joined by Custis Straw, a Civil War veteran in search of redemption, and his protector, saloon-keeper Aloysius Dooley. This unlikely group becomes embroiled in a drama that compels each member to confront their inner demons. The narrative features haunting scenes, including a bear hunt, a Métis caravan encounter, and the devastation of an Indian village by smallpox. Vanderhaeghe weaves connections between the esteemed colleges of Oxford, London's pleasure houses, and the perilous Montana plains, while also delving into Indian folklore. At its heart lies a poignant love story. This powerful novel is a tale of harshness and redemption, showcasing unforgettable characters and vividly depicted events, solidifying Vanderhaeghe’s status as a premier Canadian storyteller.