What do you think?
Rate this book
Out of the Shadows
Set during the dramatic Red River Resistance of 1869-1870 and the birth of Manitoba, the novel is told through the perspective of a young Irish-Canadian journalist, Conor O’Dea. Under mysterious circumstances, after working for the assassinated politician D’Arcy McGee, O’Dea is sent West, and to Sir John A. Macdonald’s horror befriends Louis Riel. Macdonald never understood Louis Riel and never really tried to.
The story also includes the little known Fenian attack in Manitoba. If Louis Riel had supported his fellow Catholics, it could have been what the Lieutenant Governor called “a rough time of it.” But he didn’t. He supported Canada.
Equal parts spy thriller and love triangle, this poignant novel contributes to the complicated story of Canada. In a time of reconciliation, Henderson and Bouchard are continuing a very important conversation about this great land for all of those who call it home.
The story also includes the little known Fenian attack in Manitoba. If Louis Riel had supported his fellow Catholics, it could have been what the Lieutenant Governor called “a rough time of it.” But he didn’t. He supported Canada.
Equal parts spy thriller and love triangle, this poignant novel contributes to the complicated story of Canada. In a time of reconciliation, Henderson and Bouchard are continuing a very important conversation about this great land for all of those who call it home.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
350 pages, Hardcover
Published May 23, 2024
3 people are currently reading
36 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
January 19, 2025
Gordon Henderson and David Bouchard explore a piece of Canadian history that set the tone for how the Macdonald Government would handle interactions with well organised indigenous groups in this stellar piece of fiction. The story revolves around the Red River Rebellion in 1869-70, as Louis Riel gained notoriety in the region and was vilified by the political elite in Ottawa. A lone reporter was sent to cover events and serve as a spy for Prime Minister John A. Macdonald, bringing with him not only a desire to report on the issues, but to seek to better understand the people. What follows is an intense and highly controversial period in which the present province of Manitoba came into being and bloodshed was plentiful on both sides. The authors do well to recount the story that had me turning pages well into the night to learn more about this captivating time in Canadian history.
When Conor O'Dea was asked to report on the situation in Red River for the Toronto Herald, he leapt at the chance. Having worked on Parliament Hill previously, O'Dea knew many of the actors seeking to better understand the region, so much so that Prime Minister John A. Macdonald asked the roving reporter to serve as his eyes and ears, reporting back regularly. As O'Dea makes his way from Toronto through to the Red River, he must defend his Irish background and penchant for being closely tied to the Ottawa elite. Still, he hungers for knowledge about the local situation and this Louis Riel that has been making so many waves.
When O'Dea arrives, he sees the situation as a struggle for an indigenous people to take back what was stolen from them and create a government of their own, one that is willing to work with Ottawa, but on its own terms. As time progresses, O'Dea sees how Riel's Métis population struggle against the local settlers who want them gone or locked up for blocking Canadian progress, something that PM Macdonald has espoused comes in the form of a country-wide rail system from one coast to the other. O'Dea speaks to many and garners some ideas, not all of which are to the liking of either Riel or Macdonald. Yet, he remains true to himself and his readers, wherever that takes him.
As the Manitoba Act takes shape and Ottawa agrees to pull the region into Confederation, there are some plans on both sides to try ascertaining the upper hand. Riel and Macdonald are powerful men in their own right and, at the end of the day, require fealty to the cause or suffer the consequences. Both men speak kindly of one another, though O'Dea knows there is no love lost between them and both plan to take the upper hand, however they can. Rallying the locals as best they can, it will be a battle between the Red River government and that of the new country, Canada. Locking horns and cultural beliefs at every turn, all to better their people and ensure success for decades to come. All the while, another attack is coming together across the Canada-US border, which could see the Red River change hands and Canada find itself in trouble. Henderson and Bouchard developed a great story that taught me so much with each passing moment.
As a Winnipegger by birth, I was eager when I stumbled upon this book in my local library. I hoped it would shed some light on my birth place and some of the politics of which I knew very little. Gordon Henderson and David Bouchard did well to educate and entertain me with each portion of the book and its detailed explanation of events, all under the veil of a fictional story. The narrative develops from the opening pages and keeps the reader in the middle of the story throughout. Short chapters propel things forward and leave the reader rushing to get answers as each perspective advances. While the story is told from many angles, its primary perspective is through the eyes of Conor O'Dea and all he discovers when he arrives in the Red River area. Many of the characters are based on historical figures and these individuals educate the attentive reader with their views and sentiments. The authors pull no punches with the sentiments, going so far as to offer raw and spicy language to show the massive divide and disrespect both camps possess. I found myself enthralled with these characters, whose sentiments are complemented with the plot points on offer. While it is clear that history depicts what happened clearly, the surprises the authors offer keep the reader wondering with each passing chapter. The discussion of the Fenian plot to invade was especially surprising and well-developed, something the authors assure readers is based in fact. This was a stunning depiction and I loved every moment of it. I would surely read anything else these authors pen, in hopes that it would be just as well-developed as this novel.
Kudos, Messrs. Henderson and Bouchard, for this wonderful piece of historical fiction.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
When Conor O'Dea was asked to report on the situation in Red River for the Toronto Herald, he leapt at the chance. Having worked on Parliament Hill previously, O'Dea knew many of the actors seeking to better understand the region, so much so that Prime Minister John A. Macdonald asked the roving reporter to serve as his eyes and ears, reporting back regularly. As O'Dea makes his way from Toronto through to the Red River, he must defend his Irish background and penchant for being closely tied to the Ottawa elite. Still, he hungers for knowledge about the local situation and this Louis Riel that has been making so many waves.
When O'Dea arrives, he sees the situation as a struggle for an indigenous people to take back what was stolen from them and create a government of their own, one that is willing to work with Ottawa, but on its own terms. As time progresses, O'Dea sees how Riel's Métis population struggle against the local settlers who want them gone or locked up for blocking Canadian progress, something that PM Macdonald has espoused comes in the form of a country-wide rail system from one coast to the other. O'Dea speaks to many and garners some ideas, not all of which are to the liking of either Riel or Macdonald. Yet, he remains true to himself and his readers, wherever that takes him.
As the Manitoba Act takes shape and Ottawa agrees to pull the region into Confederation, there are some plans on both sides to try ascertaining the upper hand. Riel and Macdonald are powerful men in their own right and, at the end of the day, require fealty to the cause or suffer the consequences. Both men speak kindly of one another, though O'Dea knows there is no love lost between them and both plan to take the upper hand, however they can. Rallying the locals as best they can, it will be a battle between the Red River government and that of the new country, Canada. Locking horns and cultural beliefs at every turn, all to better their people and ensure success for decades to come. All the while, another attack is coming together across the Canada-US border, which could see the Red River change hands and Canada find itself in trouble. Henderson and Bouchard developed a great story that taught me so much with each passing moment.
As a Winnipegger by birth, I was eager when I stumbled upon this book in my local library. I hoped it would shed some light on my birth place and some of the politics of which I knew very little. Gordon Henderson and David Bouchard did well to educate and entertain me with each portion of the book and its detailed explanation of events, all under the veil of a fictional story. The narrative develops from the opening pages and keeps the reader in the middle of the story throughout. Short chapters propel things forward and leave the reader rushing to get answers as each perspective advances. While the story is told from many angles, its primary perspective is through the eyes of Conor O'Dea and all he discovers when he arrives in the Red River area. Many of the characters are based on historical figures and these individuals educate the attentive reader with their views and sentiments. The authors pull no punches with the sentiments, going so far as to offer raw and spicy language to show the massive divide and disrespect both camps possess. I found myself enthralled with these characters, whose sentiments are complemented with the plot points on offer. While it is clear that history depicts what happened clearly, the surprises the authors offer keep the reader wondering with each passing chapter. The discussion of the Fenian plot to invade was especially surprising and well-developed, something the authors assure readers is based in fact. This was a stunning depiction and I loved every moment of it. I would surely read anything else these authors pen, in hopes that it would be just as well-developed as this novel.
Kudos, Messrs. Henderson and Bouchard, for this wonderful piece of historical fiction.
Love/hate the review? An ever-growing collection of others appears at:
http://pecheyponderings.wordpress.com/
October 11, 2024
This book is trying VERY hard to be an historical epic...but it's trying too hard, and it feels like a history text masquerading as a novel. Everything feels like boxes are being ticked...this isn't the emotional, sweeping storytelling that uses history as brought to you by writers such as Philippa Gregory or Robert Harris. I wish it was, because the potential is evident...but for me, this book is just simply an exercise in historical highlights.
January 10, 2025
Admittedly I have never read historical fiction I’m usually reading straight history but I thought I’d give it a try with the local angle.
So very glad the authors explained which parts were real and which parts were fictional and I’ll take their recommendations for further reading.
So very glad the authors explained which parts were real and which parts were fictional and I’ll take their recommendations for further reading.
December 2, 2024
"Out of the Shadows" written by Gordon Henderson and David Bouchard, is a captivating fictionalized account that explores significant events in Canadian history. For anyone passionate about this topic, the book provides a vivid portrayal of Louis Riel and the Red River Resistance, delving into the complexities of this tumultuous period.
Henderson and Bouchard skillfully reveal the layers of racism and bigotry that characterized the time, presenting a balanced view of the perspectives held by Sir John A. Macdonald's government, Louis Riel, the Métis people, and even the Irish Fenians, whose involvement in the rebellion adds an intriguing dimension to the narrative.
However, it is the compelling characters who truly bring the story to life. Aspiring journalist Conor O'Dea’s knack for trouble keeps the stakes high, particularly as his love interest, the fearless Meg Trotter, often finds herself caught up in his adventures. Meg is no damsel in distress; she is a resourceful and determined force in her own right, enriching the narrative with her resilience and sharp wit.
Polly, another standout character, adds intrigue and suspense to the story. As a lady spy with her own secrets, Polly’s presence weaves a thread of espionage and danger throughout the plot, showcasing how women were not only witnesses to history but also active participants in shaping it. The chemistry between the characters—whether romantic, platonic, or adversarial—balances the heavier historical themes with moments of genuine humanity and connection.
While I appreciated the rich detail and the thoughtful handling of complex historical topics, I found the pacing to be inconsistent at times. Certain sections, particularly those involving Polly’s covert activities or Meg’s fiery determination, were engaging and fast-paced, while others felt weighed down by exposition, which occasionally disrupted my immersion in the story. Nevertheless, the book's ability to both inform and entertain makes it a valuable read, especially for those eager to learn more about the Red River Resistance. The authors excel at treating the subject matter sensitively, presenting a nuanced perspective of the conflict while maintaining high stakes throughout.
"Out of the Shadows" offers both an exciting and educational experience. I would recommend it to history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the events that shaped Canada. The strong female characters, especially Polly and Meg, bring fresh life to this fictionalized retelling of Canadian history. Although it didn't fully engage me enough for a higher rating, it remains a noteworthy contribution to Canadian historical fiction.
Henderson and Bouchard skillfully reveal the layers of racism and bigotry that characterized the time, presenting a balanced view of the perspectives held by Sir John A. Macdonald's government, Louis Riel, the Métis people, and even the Irish Fenians, whose involvement in the rebellion adds an intriguing dimension to the narrative.
However, it is the compelling characters who truly bring the story to life. Aspiring journalist Conor O'Dea’s knack for trouble keeps the stakes high, particularly as his love interest, the fearless Meg Trotter, often finds herself caught up in his adventures. Meg is no damsel in distress; she is a resourceful and determined force in her own right, enriching the narrative with her resilience and sharp wit.
Polly, another standout character, adds intrigue and suspense to the story. As a lady spy with her own secrets, Polly’s presence weaves a thread of espionage and danger throughout the plot, showcasing how women were not only witnesses to history but also active participants in shaping it. The chemistry between the characters—whether romantic, platonic, or adversarial—balances the heavier historical themes with moments of genuine humanity and connection.
While I appreciated the rich detail and the thoughtful handling of complex historical topics, I found the pacing to be inconsistent at times. Certain sections, particularly those involving Polly’s covert activities or Meg’s fiery determination, were engaging and fast-paced, while others felt weighed down by exposition, which occasionally disrupted my immersion in the story. Nevertheless, the book's ability to both inform and entertain makes it a valuable read, especially for those eager to learn more about the Red River Resistance. The authors excel at treating the subject matter sensitively, presenting a nuanced perspective of the conflict while maintaining high stakes throughout.
"Out of the Shadows" offers both an exciting and educational experience. I would recommend it to history enthusiasts and anyone interested in the events that shaped Canada. The strong female characters, especially Polly and Meg, bring fresh life to this fictionalized retelling of Canadian history. Although it didn't fully engage me enough for a higher rating, it remains a noteworthy contribution to Canadian historical fiction.
June 20, 2024
A book for anyone who knows - and loves - Canadian history! I learned so much about Louis Riel and the Red River Resistance while reading this novel. Henderson and Bouchard delve into the racism and bigotry of the time while examining all sides of the conflict between Sir John A. Macdonald's government, Louis Riel and the Métis people and the role the Irish Fenians played in the rebellion. A follow up to Henderson's first novel, Man in the Shadows, Out of the Shadows again features the up and coming journalist Conor O'Dea who seems to find himself in danger more often than his love interest, Meg Trotter, would like! An exciting read about a fraught time in Canadian history.
(read advanced copy)
(read advanced copy)
February 4, 2025
It is an interesting concept to present history through fictionalized narrative - tells the historical events with imagined scenes and dialogues - making the account more "accessible." In this case, the story is about Louis Riel, the Red River Rebellion 1869-70, the conflict between settlers and the Metis Nation in the Red River Colony, and the response by John A Macdonald. This is a gripping story that needs to be told, and the narrative style may make it more compelling to many readers. But I'm old school - I prefer a historical account of facts, figures and forces. Dramatizations, I leave to television programs.
February 20, 2025
Sitting here in Winnipeg reading about what this area looked like and who was there in 1869-1870 and what was going on, is fun. It was a seminal period of time which could have gone any number of ways including becoming part of the US. But in the end Louis Riel managed to create Manitoba, the province.
This is a fascinating and entertaining read. I learned a lot about this important part of Canadian history and the characters involved, a lot of whom now have streets named after them - McMicken for example, and unfortunately 'Wolseley' who despite being a brute who led a vicious assault against the local Metis, now has a street, school and whole neighbourhood named for him :(
This is a fascinating and entertaining read. I learned a lot about this important part of Canadian history and the characters involved, a lot of whom now have streets named after them - McMicken for example, and unfortunately 'Wolseley' who despite being a brute who led a vicious assault against the local Metis, now has a street, school and whole neighbourhood named for him :(
August 18, 2024
Really enjoyed this fictionalized account of pivotal events in Canadian history. This story is both informative and entertaining, treating complex issues with care and sensitivity while moving the story along at an incredible pace. Highly recommend!
October 18, 2024
Excellent book brought history alive and showed Riel as a human being not some half insane person, loved it!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews