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A Small Compass
In 1806, Isobel Gunn was staring down the inevitability of a spinster's farm life in the Orkney Islands, Scotland, often referred to as the Island of Women. At the same time, across the ocean in Maskinongé, Quebec, Marie-Anne Gaboury is facing the prospect that her dashing new coureur de bois husband will leave her a fur trade widow when he returns west to the wilderness. Both women launch on perilous voyages that will change them forever and transform them into legends. A Small Compass is the story of the first two non-indigenous women to venture into the western Canadian wilderness. They meet and must help each other battle what they do and don't know to defend all they love.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
264 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2023
4 people are currently reading
5178 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
July 23, 2024
I unfortunately did not enjoy this novel - I think it was just not for me. There was too much romance, and the pacing didn't work for me as it often bogged down into details that weren't news to me. (I have a moderate amateur knowledge of the time period/place depicted, so wasn't as fascinated by the reveals of details as someone else might have been) I had issues with some of the characters, actively disliking some of their actions, which created a distance between me and them that did not enhance the reading experience.
Having said this, the writing is clear and easy to follow, there are several scenes which are quite well done and thrilling, and for those more interested in romantic-historical adventures, this might well better appeal.
I have a longer review of this book scheduled to be released on my blog in August.
Having said this, the writing is clear and easy to follow, there are several scenes which are quite well done and thrilling, and for those more interested in romantic-historical adventures, this might well better appeal.
I have a longer review of this book scheduled to be released on my blog in August.
May 19, 2025
In 1806, Isobel Gunn was staring down the inevitability of a spinster's farm life in the Orkney Islands, Scotland, often referred to as the Island of Women. At the same time, across the ocean in Maskinongé, Quebec, Marie-Anne Gaboury is facing the prospect that her dashing new coureur de bois husband will leave her a fur trade widow when he returns west to the wilderness. Both women launch on perilous voyages that will change them forever and transform them into legends. A Small Compass is the story of the first two non-indigenous women to venture into the western Canadian wilderness. They meet and must help each other battle what they do and don't know to defend all they love.
We love this story and the way these women took on their own adventures of the unknown, challenging the restrictions society set for them. Women had been surviving in this part of the world for centuries but somehow the European attitude was that it only belonged to men, therefore, only men should take on the challenges. But, women were always there, crucial to the survival of all, including the European men who fooled themselves into thinking that they were the ones who conquered the wilderness. It was only fitting that the first two European women to come to the wilderness do so on their own terms.
We love this story and the way these women took on their own adventures of the unknown, challenging the restrictions society set for them. Women had been surviving in this part of the world for centuries but somehow the European attitude was that it only belonged to men, therefore, only men should take on the challenges. But, women were always there, crucial to the survival of all, including the European men who fooled themselves into thinking that they were the ones who conquered the wilderness. It was only fitting that the first two European women to come to the wilderness do so on their own terms.
May 26, 2023
The research that went into this book was incredible, but it was the connection between the protagonists and their fight to defend themselves that captivated me. The story alternates between the two woman as they venture into the Canadian wilderness. The author did a great job of teasing out both stories before bringing them together. From that point on, I was hooked.
November 14, 2024
Cinda Gault’s “A Small Compass” is a sweeping historical novel set in the early 19th century, chronicling the intertwined lives of two formidable women, Isobel Gunn and Marie-Anne Gaboury, as they navigate the challenges of identity, love, and survival in the fur-trading frontiers of Canada. Gault’s narrative spans the harsh, unyielding landscapes of the Orkney Islands and the wild expanses of what is now Quebec and Manitoba, offering readers a visceral glimpse into a pivotal era of Canadian history. The novel begins with a bold act of defiance as Isobel Gunn, unwilling to resign herself to a life of spinsterhood on the Orkney Islands, disguises herself as a boy to join the Hudson’s Bay Company. Her journey is marked by determination and the constant threat of her secret being uncovered, which Gault portrays with compelling tension and deep empathy for her protagonist’s plight. Isobel’s story is a poignant exploration of the lengths one will go to in order to forge a new path and secure a semblance of family and belonging.
Parallel to Isobel’s story is that of Marie-Anne Gaboury, a spirited young woman who finds herself swept off her feet by Jean-Baptiste Lagimodière, a coureur de bois enamored with the fur trade. Her resolve to not become a widow to her husband’s ambitions leads her into the heart of the fur-trading world, a decision that brings both profound love and harrowing danger, especially as she confronts the realities of her husband’s past and the complexities of frontier life.
Gault masterfully weaves these two narratives together, culminating in a dramatic intersection when Marie-Anne and Isobel’s paths cross under extraordinary circumstances. Their friendship, formed in the midst of adversity, highlights the themes of solidarity and mutual support that are central to the novel. The author’s skillful depiction of their relationship provides a counterpoint to the external conflicts and enhances the emotional depth of the narrative.
“A Small Compass” is rich with historical detail, from the depiction of life in the fur trade to the societal expectations of women during the era. Gault does not shy away from the brutal realities of the time, including the treatment of women and the indigenous peoples’ involvement in the fur trade, lending authenticity and power to her storytelling.
The novel also excels in its vivid settings, from the stark beauty of the Orkney Islands to the untamed wilderness of the Canadian frontier. Gault’s descriptions are evocative and immersive, transporting readers directly into the scenes she paints.
In conclusion, “A Small Compass” by Cinda Gault is a compelling historical novel that offers a deeply human perspective on the struggles and triumphs of two remarkable women. Through the lens of Isobel and Marie-Anne, Gault explores themes of identity, resistance, and the enduring quest for personal freedom. This novel is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unbreakable bonds formed in the face of shared adversity. It is a must-read for fans of historical fiction looking for a story that combines rich historical context with a powerful narrative of survival and solidarity.
Parallel to Isobel’s story is that of Marie-Anne Gaboury, a spirited young woman who finds herself swept off her feet by Jean-Baptiste Lagimodière, a coureur de bois enamored with the fur trade. Her resolve to not become a widow to her husband’s ambitions leads her into the heart of the fur-trading world, a decision that brings both profound love and harrowing danger, especially as she confronts the realities of her husband’s past and the complexities of frontier life.
Gault masterfully weaves these two narratives together, culminating in a dramatic intersection when Marie-Anne and Isobel’s paths cross under extraordinary circumstances. Their friendship, formed in the midst of adversity, highlights the themes of solidarity and mutual support that are central to the novel. The author’s skillful depiction of their relationship provides a counterpoint to the external conflicts and enhances the emotional depth of the narrative.
“A Small Compass” is rich with historical detail, from the depiction of life in the fur trade to the societal expectations of women during the era. Gault does not shy away from the brutal realities of the time, including the treatment of women and the indigenous peoples’ involvement in the fur trade, lending authenticity and power to her storytelling.
The novel also excels in its vivid settings, from the stark beauty of the Orkney Islands to the untamed wilderness of the Canadian frontier. Gault’s descriptions are evocative and immersive, transporting readers directly into the scenes she paints.
In conclusion, “A Small Compass” by Cinda Gault is a compelling historical novel that offers a deeply human perspective on the struggles and triumphs of two remarkable women. Through the lens of Isobel and Marie-Anne, Gault explores themes of identity, resistance, and the enduring quest for personal freedom. This novel is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the unbreakable bonds formed in the face of shared adversity. It is a must-read for fans of historical fiction looking for a story that combines rich historical context with a powerful narrative of survival and solidarity.
May 28, 2024
What a pleasure to read about Canadian history for a change. I had previously heard about the Hudson's Bay fur trade, but never realized the perilous journey the men undertook in order to reach their destination. I felt like I was along for the journey. And to have such strong female characters was another bonus. Thank you for the wonderful read.
May 9, 2023
Based on the lives of real Canadian women pioneers. These women were tough and tender.
Love that it focuses on real Canadian pioneers. The lives of women are often told only in relationships with men. Marie-Anne and Isobel are front and centre throughout the book. It's a challenging story but an easy and interesting read. Can't wait to see if it is picked up for TV or a movie. I'll invite friends to pick up the book, I'm keeping my signed copy!
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Love that it focuses on real Canadian pioneers. The lives of women are often told only in relationships with men. Marie-Anne and Isobel are front and centre throughout the book. It's a challenging story but an easy and interesting read. Can't wait to see if it is picked up for TV or a movie. I'll invite friends to pick up the book, I'm keeping my signed copy!
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May 12, 2023
The Canadian wilderness sure wasn't "empty"! So many interesting people & places these protagonists found along the way. The landscape could go from benevolent to malevolent in an instant, reminding you never to take safety for granted.
May 3, 2023
A fresh and original tale! Who knew that Canadian history could be so interesting?
May 3, 2023
The interweaving stories heightened suspense. When I was reading about one protagonist, I was still wondering what the other one was doing. Great storytelling!
May 12, 2023
Excellent Read
Riveting and shows the determination of those women and men who settled the west. The side of the laborer and woman so often not told.
Riveting and shows the determination of those women and men who settled the west. The side of the laborer and woman so often not told.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews