I've always referred to Buffalo, NY as the "mistake by the lake" and it was interesting to read about the Buffalo at the turn of the 20th Century. I'm amazed at what a vibrant city it was - and how many millionaires called Buffalo home. A different picture of Buffalo has been painted for me and it's sort of sad to think how another American city has lost it former glory.
Belfer's done an excellent job with her first novel. I love the language of the book, the way she melds fictional and real people along with historical events into this story. I felt as though I was transported back to 1901 Buffalo and the Pan-American Exposition. This book is the type of mystery/historical fiction combination that I am fond of.
Belfer's done an excellent job with her first novel. I love the language of the book, the way she melds fictional and real people along with historical events into this story. I felt as though I was transported back to 1901 Buffalo and the Pan-American Exposition. This book is the type of mystery/historical fiction combination that I am fond of.
Helpful Score: 5
This was a well-written historical novel set in Buffalo, New York during the early 1900s and revolved around the story of the building of the Niagara Falls power station and the life of Louisa Barrett, headmistress of a prestigious girls school.
Helpful Score: 4
Thsi is fabulous look at the turn of the 20th century and the start of industrialization and electricy. Buffalo at it pinnacle. This author is going places
Helpful Score: 4
I can't remember the last I read such an intriguing historical novel. It has everything; The history of Buffalo, NY circa 1900, the development of hydroelectric power at Niagara Falls, the Pan-American Exposition, political plotting, two murders, children born out of wedlock (GASP!) unrequited love, whispers of lesbianism, and a narration by an intelligent woman born too soon for her ideas. Well written, to boot! I wish there were more by this author.
Helpful Score: 3
A fascinating journey to early 1900s Buffalo, New York focusing on the building of the Niagra Falls power plant. The main character is the female headmistress of a girls school who, harboring a secret of her own, is caught up in a whirlwind of murder, intrigue, power and politics. The other characters, both real and fictional, are full of life and I guarantee you will never think the same of President Cleveland again!
A wonderful historical novel dealing with the industrial revolution, environmentalism, business, politics, womens social issues, the development of a city, and even a little romance.
A wonderful historical novel dealing with the industrial revolution, environmentalism, business, politics, womens social issues, the development of a city, and even a little romance.
