The Raids: The Nickel Range Trilogy, Volume 1

by Mick Lowe

It’s spring, 1963 in the “Nickel Capital of the World.” Nineteen-year-old Jake McCool is about to undergo a rite of passage—his first shift underground in a hard rock mine. But the Cold War is at its height, and Jake is also about to become a reluctant participant in a bitter interunion battle fueled by the global struggle between two ideologies in the wake of the Second World War. So is his girlfriend, Jo Ann Winters. Together the couple are swept up in a web of intrigue; at its center is a terrible secret that will haunt their relationship for the rest of their lives, as their hometown becomes not only one of the world’s greatest hard rock mining centers, but also the epicenter of the Cold War in North America. In this fast-paced novel set against the little-known historical backdrop of a true-life battle that included vicious beatings, riots, and worse, author Mick Lowe posits a provocative premise: that the U.S. government sponsored a ruthless covert operation to destabilize a strategic community in the heartland of its closest ally, Canada.

304 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2014

About the author

Mick Lowe is an award-winning journalist, author and writer, whose work has appeared in a diverse range of Canadian publications, including the The Globe and Mail, the Financial Post Magazine, and Northern Ontario Business.

On May 1st, 2008, Mick suffered a massive stroke that left him disabled – paralyzed on his left side, and confined to a wheelchair. Despite intensive rehabilitation therapy, the paralysis remains, forcing Mick into early unexpected retirement ending a 40 year career in professional writing.

Reviews

[Janice · Rating 3 out of 5]

A great look into Sudbury's past. It's time someone wrote this story. Much research was done in the writing of this novel, which showed in the details in the story. Only downside is that the research overtook the story and characters in some places. Can't wait to read the next volume. Must read for all Sudburians.

[Shanon · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a resident of Copper Cliff, I was really looking forward to reading this. It is a glimpse into the past that we don't often get to experience. The story is interesting, however, I was a little disappointed with the prose. It is ok for the most part, but there was something missing in the writing.

[Peter · Rating 3 out of 5]

Truly a work of fiction in the spirit of Upton Sinclair....

[Robin Philpot · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must read. It tells a story that has been taboo for years. A great Canadian Cold War novel.

[Patrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow, Mick Lowe! You've created a fascinating page-turner. I nearly devoured the book in entire sitting. Well done! As a Sudbury resident, I appreciate what you've done.