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Queen of the Mist
School teacher. Widow. Legend.
It’s 1901 and the mists of change are swirling. Queen Victoria’s reign is about to come to an end, and an obscure widow in Buffalo, New York, is about to attempt the impossible.
Meet the courageous Mrs Annie Edson Taylor. The bravest woman you’ve never heard of and the first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel ―over a decade before any man dared to do the same.
Enter a world of lost fortunes and friendship, as Annie, grieving the past and determined to change the lives of the women around her, attempts to alter the course of history.
With a single jump, that is.
It’s 1901 and the mists of change are swirling. Queen Victoria’s reign is about to come to an end, and an obscure widow in Buffalo, New York, is about to attempt the impossible.
Meet the courageous Mrs Annie Edson Taylor. The bravest woman you’ve never heard of and the first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel ―over a decade before any man dared to do the same.
Enter a world of lost fortunes and friendship, as Annie, grieving the past and determined to change the lives of the women around her, attempts to alter the course of history.
With a single jump, that is.
416 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2024
92 people are currently reading
744 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
October 12, 2024
I received a free copy of, The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls in a Barrel, by Caroline Cauchi, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Annie Edson Taylor went over Niagara Falls in a barrel, on her her birthday in 1901. She became the first person to survive going over Niagara Falls in a barrel. This was a very interesting read.
April 13, 2025
Rating: ★★★★★
A thank you to the author and NetGalley for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.
”Women can be just as daring, if not more so, than men. It’s not about strength, it’s about bravery and skill.”
The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls In a Barrel follows the story of historical figure, Annie Edson Taylor, the first person to have the courage and determination to carry out the stunt of going over Niagara Falls in a barrel.
⟡•—— ・ ₊˚🛢️‧₊˚. ・ ——•⟡
An exquisite tale full of bravery, women strenght and unconditional love. Cauchi exceeded herself in writing a bold protagonist and bringing her historical feat to life in a book that is both filled with adventure but also with heart and determination.
One of my personal favorite aspects of the novel is the balance between the human element and the sheer grandeur of the natural setting. The author let her writing shine and in return we, the readers, are able to truly explore and understand the psychology of the protagonist - what drove her to take such a risk and how she faced the imminent danger.
This book is the epitome of women supporting women and i finished the last pages crying my eyes out. It’s a well deserved 5/5 stars!
A thank you to the author and NetGalley for providing me a copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.
”Women can be just as daring, if not more so, than men. It’s not about strength, it’s about bravery and skill.”
The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls In a Barrel follows the story of historical figure, Annie Edson Taylor, the first person to have the courage and determination to carry out the stunt of going over Niagara Falls in a barrel.
⟡•—— ・ ₊˚🛢️‧₊˚. ・ ——•⟡
An exquisite tale full of bravery, women strenght and unconditional love. Cauchi exceeded herself in writing a bold protagonist and bringing her historical feat to life in a book that is both filled with adventure but also with heart and determination.
One of my personal favorite aspects of the novel is the balance between the human element and the sheer grandeur of the natural setting. The author let her writing shine and in return we, the readers, are able to truly explore and understand the psychology of the protagonist - what drove her to take such a risk and how she faced the imminent danger.
This book is the epitome of women supporting women and i finished the last pages crying my eyes out. It’s a well deserved 5/5 stars!
October 2, 2024
I am struggling to find the right words to review this book. How do you sum up the story of an incredible woman like Annie Edson Taylor? How am I supposed to voice my thoughts about the words of an author as talented as Dr. Caroline Cauchi? There is only one word for it; MAGIC.
The story within the story is beautiful. The writing is beautiful. Everything about this book is beautiful. The character development is first class.
I laughed, cried, gasped, and cried some more. Every single word is perfection! I can't wait for the world to learn the story of Annie, The Queen of the Mist, as told by Caroline Cauchi.
The story within the story is beautiful. The writing is beautiful. Everything about this book is beautiful. The character development is first class.
I laughed, cried, gasped, and cried some more. Every single word is perfection! I can't wait for the world to learn the story of Annie, The Queen of the Mist, as told by Caroline Cauchi.
April 2, 2025
Fascinating story of the first woman to survive going over Niagara Falls in a barrel in 1901. You get the whole story of Annie Edson Taylor from the tragedies in her life to finding solace in helping others at a boarding house. The courage and determination Annie showed in her quest to go over the falls defied societal norms at the time. Matilda as a secondary character helped give depth to the story and provided someone for Annie to care about. The author notes provided more background and explains what parts the author fictionalized.
If you are interested in historical fiction where you learn something new and it has nothing to do with the world wars, I recommend this book.
If you are interested in historical fiction where you learn something new and it has nothing to do with the world wars, I recommend this book.
September 1, 2025
Based on the life of Annie Edson Taylor, who actually did go over Niagara Falls in a barrel in 1901, the inspiration behind this story was interesting and inspiring. However, I struggled to connect with the characters emotionally, and found the book a bit of a slog to read. There was a lot of repetition and a lot of Annie's actions didn't seem to line up with the intelligent woman we were led to believe she was.
November 27, 2025
“It’s the reminder of how fragile and rare true female alliances are. This world too often pits us against each other. Our worth is generally determined by men, and solidarity among women can be elusive.”
October 9, 2024
Interesting story but a little slow moving.
March 11, 2025
First half was great! Second half could have been 100 pages shorter. Will not be designing a barrel to go over the falls.
November 8, 2024
*Thanks to Netgalley for an advance copy in exchange for my review*
Firstly - who wouldn't be sucked in by this title, or book cover? I visited Niagara Falls as a kid, was fascinated by the barrels on display and how bonkers you'd have to be to climb into one and be sent down the rapids... but knew nothing about the very real Annie Edson Taylor who was the first woman to have done the stunt and survived.
While Annie's independent spirit shines through, the novel has some structural issues that I found frustrating and didn't quite lead up to an emotional payoff as I'd have hoped for. The story feels disjointed at times, with characters and plot points that seem random or irrelevant until pulled together at the very end. I wish these had been woven in more seamlessly, because it's only at the very end that it becomes clear why Annie went through the stunt in the first place. There's a distinct lack of likeable male characters, all cast as opportunistic, villainous, and dismissive - this serves to contrast starkly with Annie's resolve, but you do kind of want to shake her by the shoulders in a "that man is a walking red flag" kind of way.
Overall, this book felt like an adult version of an American Girl Doll backstory - I truly mean that in the most respectful way.
Firstly - who wouldn't be sucked in by this title, or book cover? I visited Niagara Falls as a kid, was fascinated by the barrels on display and how bonkers you'd have to be to climb into one and be sent down the rapids... but knew nothing about the very real Annie Edson Taylor who was the first woman to have done the stunt and survived.
While Annie's independent spirit shines through, the novel has some structural issues that I found frustrating and didn't quite lead up to an emotional payoff as I'd have hoped for. The story feels disjointed at times, with characters and plot points that seem random or irrelevant until pulled together at the very end. I wish these had been woven in more seamlessly, because it's only at the very end that it becomes clear why Annie went through the stunt in the first place. There's a distinct lack of likeable male characters, all cast as opportunistic, villainous, and dismissive - this serves to contrast starkly with Annie's resolve, but you do kind of want to shake her by the shoulders in a "that man is a walking red flag" kind of way.
Overall, this book felt like an adult version of an American Girl Doll backstory - I truly mean that in the most respectful way.
October 2, 2024
A brilliantly written and totally inspirational read! I didn't know the story of Annie Edson Taylor, the first person to ever survive going over Niagara Falls, and Dr. Caroline Cauchi has done a wonderful job of blending historical fact with fiction.
The writing is sublime, with excerpts from Annie's diary, and POVs from some of the women who crossed paths with her in their shared lodgings in Bay City, where Annie cared for them all. I loved the well developed characters, particularly Tilda, who felt entirely real to me and whose young life was completely changed by Annie's loving influence.
Annie Edson Taylor was a huge advocate for women and her story is an important one that should be shared far and wide.
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Caroline Cauchi and Harper Collins OMC for an ARC in return for an honest review.
The writing is sublime, with excerpts from Annie's diary, and POVs from some of the women who crossed paths with her in their shared lodgings in Bay City, where Annie cared for them all. I loved the well developed characters, particularly Tilda, who felt entirely real to me and whose young life was completely changed by Annie's loving influence.
Annie Edson Taylor was a huge advocate for women and her story is an important one that should be shared far and wide.
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Caroline Cauchi and Harper Collins OMC for an ARC in return for an honest review.
November 29, 2024
Okay, I know they say not to judge a book by it's cover, but I am TOTALLY doing that for a minute because the cover art for this book is absolutely stunning. I was determined to read it from that alone at first. Then the summary just got me all the more intrigued.
This book tells the story of Annie Edson Taylor, the first person to ever go over Niagara Falls in a barrel...in 1901...and survive! The first person was a WOMAN! Woohoo! Everyone knows about this right?! Sadly, not that many people do, and I until reading this amazing story also had to count myself among the uninformed.
This story will ABSOLUTELY be one that pulls on your heart strings. Yes there's the barrel drop and finding out about that is exhilarating enough, but that happens 200 pages in and you still have half the book still to go. What really draws you into the story is learning more about Annie Edson Taylor and WHY she took the plunge - at 63 no less - that will have you invested. It's a tale of loss and betrayal, but also the power of female perseverance, courage, defying odds, and the belief that age is only a number. Annie was adamant that women could do anything men could do and that they shouldn't be limited to societal conventions at any age. She taught women to be proud, to be tough, to be true to themselves, and believe in their abilities.
Annie Edson Taylor made the first ripple in history to show what sorts of feats women can do, but it's up to all of us now to build those ripples into waves and show history what a collective of women are truly capable of accomplishing.
This book tells the story of Annie Edson Taylor, the first person to ever go over Niagara Falls in a barrel...in 1901...and survive! The first person was a WOMAN! Woohoo! Everyone knows about this right?! Sadly, not that many people do, and I until reading this amazing story also had to count myself among the uninformed.
This story will ABSOLUTELY be one that pulls on your heart strings. Yes there's the barrel drop and finding out about that is exhilarating enough, but that happens 200 pages in and you still have half the book still to go. What really draws you into the story is learning more about Annie Edson Taylor and WHY she took the plunge - at 63 no less - that will have you invested. It's a tale of loss and betrayal, but also the power of female perseverance, courage, defying odds, and the belief that age is only a number. Annie was adamant that women could do anything men could do and that they shouldn't be limited to societal conventions at any age. She taught women to be proud, to be tough, to be true to themselves, and believe in their abilities.
Annie Edson Taylor made the first ripple in history to show what sorts of feats women can do, but it's up to all of us now to build those ripples into waves and show history what a collective of women are truly capable of accomplishing.
June 22, 2025
This book took me way too long to finish. I think I struggled with this one because it was about an event that already happened so as a reader I basically knew the outcome before even starting the book, if that makes sense. I just found this one to be more boring, not like other historical fictions based on true events that I've read so far.
May 30, 2025
A really fascinating account of the formidable Annie Edson Taylor; the first woman to successfully survive a trip over Niagara Falls in a barrel of her own making.
I loved the opening to this story - the fictional encounter of Annie with Mr Hill set the scene beautifully to show the (at the time) outlandish tenacity of a woman at the turn of the 1900s.
I enjoyed the addition of some of the other characters to make sense of the limited facts known about Annie. I
I also thought the feminist perspective perfectly highlighted the way women of history continue to be marginalised.
I loved the opening to this story - the fictional encounter of Annie with Mr Hill set the scene beautifully to show the (at the time) outlandish tenacity of a woman at the turn of the 1900s.
I enjoyed the addition of some of the other characters to make sense of the limited facts known about Annie. I
I also thought the feminist perspective perfectly highlighted the way women of history continue to be marginalised.
March 24, 2025
Such a unique book in its story telling of a woman who quite simply went over Niagara Falls in a barrel, aged 63 years old and survived!
It’s also a book about friendship, grief, tenacity, history and sheer determination. I really enjoyed it, thank you Annie Edson Taylor for being such an iconic force of a woman.
It’s also a book about friendship, grief, tenacity, history and sheer determination. I really enjoyed it, thank you Annie Edson Taylor for being such an iconic force of a woman.
October 7, 2024
This is a terrific book that inspires more research into the life of the Queen of the Mist. I had no idea that a feisty woman had been the first to go over the falls and enjoyed this tale.
I am looking forward to meeting the author of this book as well as Mrs. van Goh, which I also really enjoyed
I am looking forward to meeting the author of this book as well as Mrs. van Goh, which I also really enjoyed
October 14, 2025
Annie Edson Taylor was a name that I had never heard before reading The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls In A Barrel, but a name that I undoubtedly should have. It is now a name that I will never forget. Annie’s story is one of strength and bravery, in the face of heartache and a patriarchal society, and Caroline captures her perfectly. The way that she brings the women the world has forgotten back to life is utterly captivating.
As well as Annie, this story has a whole group of strong, resilient women. The difficulties that they all faced are a true reflection of the time they lived in, and I am so glad that they all had each other to lean on. I absolutely loved the found family element of the book. The connection that develops between Annie and Matilda was my personal favourite.
Not only did Annie’s stunt take a lot of guts, but also a huge amount of skill and intelligence. I loved reading about the build up to her big moment. The level of planning that went into getting things exactly right was mind blowing, and on top of that, she faced ridicule and disbelief from everyone she turned to, with the exception of those wonderful women in her life who had her back from beginning to end.
The way that Annie was treated after her great achievement was nothing short of disgusting. This woman did what nobody else dared to do, and still men were trying to take advantage and take credit for what she had done. Her life should never have panned out that way, and it was so incredibly sad. The way this book concludes was like a gut punch. Equal parts devastating and heartwarming, and it had me in tears.
This book was so much more than I had expected. It is so many different things, but most of all, as a woman, I found this book to be incredibly empowering. Caroline Cauchi has done it again. At this point, I will read anything that she writes.
As well as Annie, this story has a whole group of strong, resilient women. The difficulties that they all faced are a true reflection of the time they lived in, and I am so glad that they all had each other to lean on. I absolutely loved the found family element of the book. The connection that develops between Annie and Matilda was my personal favourite.
Not only did Annie’s stunt take a lot of guts, but also a huge amount of skill and intelligence. I loved reading about the build up to her big moment. The level of planning that went into getting things exactly right was mind blowing, and on top of that, she faced ridicule and disbelief from everyone she turned to, with the exception of those wonderful women in her life who had her back from beginning to end.
The way that Annie was treated after her great achievement was nothing short of disgusting. This woman did what nobody else dared to do, and still men were trying to take advantage and take credit for what she had done. Her life should never have panned out that way, and it was so incredibly sad. The way this book concludes was like a gut punch. Equal parts devastating and heartwarming, and it had me in tears.
This book was so much more than I had expected. It is so many different things, but most of all, as a woman, I found this book to be incredibly empowering. Caroline Cauchi has done it again. At this point, I will read anything that she writes.
January 13, 2025
Learning of Mrs. Taylor's life and her incredible accomplishments was quite fascinating. However, the author decided to include side stories about a secondary character that made me question her choices.
August 12, 2024
Wow, what a historical fiction gem! Caroline Cauchi delivers The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls in a Barrel with such artistic writing skill and research thoroughness that I will never forget this fascinating tale! The author brought this courageous woman to light and life with her exceptional prose and helped me realise Annie Edson Taylor’s accomplishment but also her struggles, determination and true grit.
Some might say Annie was crazy to attempt such an impossible stunt as going over Niagara Falls in a barrel and rightfully so. But it was a way for this sixty-three year old to overcome her grief and prove her worth. Facing potential death shook the cobwebs from her mind and gave her a sharper perspective.
In so many ways The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls in a Barrel is a deep psychological character study for we are able to delve into Annie’s thoughts through her diary and see how private she was about her life. She never lets out very much about her past to those around her but we do learn that her only child was born and died in 1861 and her husband died two years later at Gettysburg. Losses that deeply affected her life. We, like the author, then ask the questions: what was Annie’s motivation to risk her life, lie about her age and believe she could survive a stunt that so many others had died attempting? What did she have to gain or lose (and to our minds a fair bit with the latter!). The author handles all these questions beautifully and paints a picture that makes sense.
Through extensive research Ms Cauchi learned that Annie wanted to earn money to help two friends—'one battling illness and the other to care for a child.’ Since there is no further info about these two available, the author created a young mother named Tilda and her baby Nora and older boarding house owner Mrs Lapointe to flesh out the possibilities of who they might have been and their importance to Annie. And Ms Cauchi has done a magnificent job in delivering these three important female characters (along with Annie). They all felt very real and I became emotionally invested in their lives. These women were part of the motivation behind Annie’s decisions and actions. They were as much a blessing to her as she was to them. When Annie decides to go ahead with her dangerous mission, they support and believe in her. Her cleverness and resourcefulness are evident in her plans. This wasn’t a quick hairbrained stunt idea but rather one well thought out. She drew upon science and other information available for her predictions and preparations. She was confident she’d survive the Niagara Falls drop in a barrel that she designed herself. Very clever indeed!
I must add, this story is not just a portrait of one woman, though Annie is the main focus. Character Tilda shares a viewpoint and offers another perspective on Annie but we also follow her personal journey. This young woman’s challenges are gut wrenching – what drove her away from home. How she ends up one night at Mrs Lapointe’s boarding house, shivering and drenched with a child on her hip. She has little funds but is allowed to stay for it is a home created for women in trouble. Tilda’s growth is astounding when she is given love. And courage springs from her closeness with Annie. In fact, Annie had quite an effect on the other women as well as noted by Evelyn Sinclair who said, “Mrs Taylor was more than just working in the boarding house; she was a guiding light in a world I believed was vicious and unforgiving. She taught me how to sew and how to tell stories. Made sure my voice was heard. Gave me hope. God bless her.” Mrs Lapointe provided a home that became a refuge. These women cheered and buoyed each other up from their troubles. This aspect of the novel is quite moving.
And, of course, the barrel stunt is a major plot focus in this varied tapestry. I have been to Canada’s Niagara Falls (I am a Canadian!) and looked over the edge of the viewing platform and marvelled at the awe-inspiring beauty, majesty and peril. To imagine someone going over this gigantic rushing waterfall is mind blowing and from such a height. Not to mention the significant force on the body it would cause—and in a barrel! To think Annie, a real person, did such a thing leaves me speechless. To face the raw unbridled power of nature and survive it, is epic. It was a great moment of victory for women for a number of reasons. It made a strong statement for those who tried to take charge of their lives after being dominated and belittled by men. Secondly, not only was Annie the first woman to attempt the impossible stunt but also the first person to ever live to tell the tale. Many men did not.
The one thing about this whole event, though, that is heartbreaking, is what happened afterward. The awful betrayal by her manager – a circus man who vowed to help her achieve her feat. He took advantage of her victory and stole what should have provided years of recognition and financial support for her and those she cared about. The whole sorry mess left her poor and a burial in a pauper’s grave. But, of course, the story does not end there as a community of friends and acquaintances who loved this woman pulled together and gave her the place she deserved in history and also gifted her a respectable gravesite with a re-burial ceremony.
As for Annie today, we should never forget this remarkable woman born in 1838 who at sixty-three in 1901 defied death! From schoolteacher, to dance instructor, to clerical worker and barrel stunt woman she is a heroine worthy to be acknowledged. She defied the archaic ideas, modes of restraint and ageism put on women of her era. She was a beacon of light and hope. I cannot rave enough about this novel and what a brilliant ‘fictionalised love letter’ Ms Cauchi has written in honour of Annie Edson Taylor. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to One More Chapter and Netgalley for the ARC.
Some might say Annie was crazy to attempt such an impossible stunt as going over Niagara Falls in a barrel and rightfully so. But it was a way for this sixty-three year old to overcome her grief and prove her worth. Facing potential death shook the cobwebs from her mind and gave her a sharper perspective.
In so many ways The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls in a Barrel is a deep psychological character study for we are able to delve into Annie’s thoughts through her diary and see how private she was about her life. She never lets out very much about her past to those around her but we do learn that her only child was born and died in 1861 and her husband died two years later at Gettysburg. Losses that deeply affected her life. We, like the author, then ask the questions: what was Annie’s motivation to risk her life, lie about her age and believe she could survive a stunt that so many others had died attempting? What did she have to gain or lose (and to our minds a fair bit with the latter!). The author handles all these questions beautifully and paints a picture that makes sense.
Through extensive research Ms Cauchi learned that Annie wanted to earn money to help two friends—'one battling illness and the other to care for a child.’ Since there is no further info about these two available, the author created a young mother named Tilda and her baby Nora and older boarding house owner Mrs Lapointe to flesh out the possibilities of who they might have been and their importance to Annie. And Ms Cauchi has done a magnificent job in delivering these three important female characters (along with Annie). They all felt very real and I became emotionally invested in their lives. These women were part of the motivation behind Annie’s decisions and actions. They were as much a blessing to her as she was to them. When Annie decides to go ahead with her dangerous mission, they support and believe in her. Her cleverness and resourcefulness are evident in her plans. This wasn’t a quick hairbrained stunt idea but rather one well thought out. She drew upon science and other information available for her predictions and preparations. She was confident she’d survive the Niagara Falls drop in a barrel that she designed herself. Very clever indeed!
I must add, this story is not just a portrait of one woman, though Annie is the main focus. Character Tilda shares a viewpoint and offers another perspective on Annie but we also follow her personal journey. This young woman’s challenges are gut wrenching – what drove her away from home. How she ends up one night at Mrs Lapointe’s boarding house, shivering and drenched with a child on her hip. She has little funds but is allowed to stay for it is a home created for women in trouble. Tilda’s growth is astounding when she is given love. And courage springs from her closeness with Annie. In fact, Annie had quite an effect on the other women as well as noted by Evelyn Sinclair who said, “Mrs Taylor was more than just working in the boarding house; she was a guiding light in a world I believed was vicious and unforgiving. She taught me how to sew and how to tell stories. Made sure my voice was heard. Gave me hope. God bless her.” Mrs Lapointe provided a home that became a refuge. These women cheered and buoyed each other up from their troubles. This aspect of the novel is quite moving.
And, of course, the barrel stunt is a major plot focus in this varied tapestry. I have been to Canada’s Niagara Falls (I am a Canadian!) and looked over the edge of the viewing platform and marvelled at the awe-inspiring beauty, majesty and peril. To imagine someone going over this gigantic rushing waterfall is mind blowing and from such a height. Not to mention the significant force on the body it would cause—and in a barrel! To think Annie, a real person, did such a thing leaves me speechless. To face the raw unbridled power of nature and survive it, is epic. It was a great moment of victory for women for a number of reasons. It made a strong statement for those who tried to take charge of their lives after being dominated and belittled by men. Secondly, not only was Annie the first woman to attempt the impossible stunt but also the first person to ever live to tell the tale. Many men did not.
The one thing about this whole event, though, that is heartbreaking, is what happened afterward. The awful betrayal by her manager – a circus man who vowed to help her achieve her feat. He took advantage of her victory and stole what should have provided years of recognition and financial support for her and those she cared about. The whole sorry mess left her poor and a burial in a pauper’s grave. But, of course, the story does not end there as a community of friends and acquaintances who loved this woman pulled together and gave her the place she deserved in history and also gifted her a respectable gravesite with a re-burial ceremony.
As for Annie today, we should never forget this remarkable woman born in 1838 who at sixty-three in 1901 defied death! From schoolteacher, to dance instructor, to clerical worker and barrel stunt woman she is a heroine worthy to be acknowledged. She defied the archaic ideas, modes of restraint and ageism put on women of her era. She was a beacon of light and hope. I cannot rave enough about this novel and what a brilliant ‘fictionalised love letter’ Ms Cauchi has written in honour of Annie Edson Taylor. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to One More Chapter and Netgalley for the ARC.
December 3, 2024
Interesting tale but so much longer than it needed to be. 2.5 stars.
October 31, 2024
I have read everything that this author has written, in her various writing names; Caroline Smailes, Caroline Wallace and most recently as Caroline Cauchi. Her ability to weave a story is incredible, and no matter which name she is using, her books always delight me.
The Woman Who Went Over Niagra Falls in a Barrel is inspired by the true story of sixty-three year old Annie Edson Taylor, who in 1901, really did climb into a home-made barrel and go over the top of Niagra Falls. Annie was the first person to survive this feat. Many people had attempted it in the past, but Annie was the first to succeed. In this extraordinary story, Cauchi has taken a real life character and fictionalised some of her story. The actual event is true, but the accompanying tale of Annie and her relationships has been created beautifully by the author.
Annie is a complex character. She has been grieving for most of her adult life, her son died before he reached his first birthday, and her husband died a couple of years later. Annie was just twenty years old at the time. She's spent her life doing various different jobs, living in assorted places and the reader discovers her living in a boarding house in Buffalo, New York. This is a house for women who are in desperate need, they may be escaping bad relationships, most of them have no money, but the door is always open and Annie and the boarding house owner, Mrs Lapointe will take these women in and give them a home for as long as they need. Money is tight, food is often scarce, but this is a place of refuge and every woman who enters the house helps out with the running of the place.
Cauchi creates such wonderful themes of female friendship in this novel. She also looks closely at how woman of a certain age become almost invisible as they grow older. Annie is sixty-three, and determined to carry out her plan to go over the Falls, however, she knows that her age, along with her gender will go against her, so takes twenty years off, and presents herself as a widow in her forties.
The amount of research that has gone into this book is amazing, the reader is introduced to a host of colourful characters who will help Annie to achieve her goal. From the dubious manager, to the fabulous barrel builders, we are treated to such an array of people. Some we will love, and trust, whilst there are other who we should be suspicious of.
At its heart, this is a story of strong women defeating the odds to become even stronger. Annie's motives for carrying out the barrel ride are complex and mixed. Not only does she want to prove that an older woman can do exactly what she wants to, she also wants to heal herself, to get rid of the overwhelming sadness and sorrow that have taken over her life, to do something exciting and new. To discover the real Annie.
The friendships formed within the story are heartwarming and so poignant. Annie's influence on the women make a huge difference to their entire lives, giving them hope and allowing them to see that they are worth far more than they ever realised.
This is historical fiction at its very best. Annie is a fascinating character and has sadly been overlooked in history. Caroline Cauchi brings her to life and what a wonderful job she has done. Highly recommended.
The Woman Who Went Over Niagra Falls in a Barrel is inspired by the true story of sixty-three year old Annie Edson Taylor, who in 1901, really did climb into a home-made barrel and go over the top of Niagra Falls. Annie was the first person to survive this feat. Many people had attempted it in the past, but Annie was the first to succeed. In this extraordinary story, Cauchi has taken a real life character and fictionalised some of her story. The actual event is true, but the accompanying tale of Annie and her relationships has been created beautifully by the author.
Annie is a complex character. She has been grieving for most of her adult life, her son died before he reached his first birthday, and her husband died a couple of years later. Annie was just twenty years old at the time. She's spent her life doing various different jobs, living in assorted places and the reader discovers her living in a boarding house in Buffalo, New York. This is a house for women who are in desperate need, they may be escaping bad relationships, most of them have no money, but the door is always open and Annie and the boarding house owner, Mrs Lapointe will take these women in and give them a home for as long as they need. Money is tight, food is often scarce, but this is a place of refuge and every woman who enters the house helps out with the running of the place.
Cauchi creates such wonderful themes of female friendship in this novel. She also looks closely at how woman of a certain age become almost invisible as they grow older. Annie is sixty-three, and determined to carry out her plan to go over the Falls, however, she knows that her age, along with her gender will go against her, so takes twenty years off, and presents herself as a widow in her forties.
The amount of research that has gone into this book is amazing, the reader is introduced to a host of colourful characters who will help Annie to achieve her goal. From the dubious manager, to the fabulous barrel builders, we are treated to such an array of people. Some we will love, and trust, whilst there are other who we should be suspicious of.
At its heart, this is a story of strong women defeating the odds to become even stronger. Annie's motives for carrying out the barrel ride are complex and mixed. Not only does she want to prove that an older woman can do exactly what she wants to, she also wants to heal herself, to get rid of the overwhelming sadness and sorrow that have taken over her life, to do something exciting and new. To discover the real Annie.
The friendships formed within the story are heartwarming and so poignant. Annie's influence on the women make a huge difference to their entire lives, giving them hope and allowing them to see that they are worth far more than they ever realised.
This is historical fiction at its very best. Annie is a fascinating character and has sadly been overlooked in history. Caroline Cauchi brings her to life and what a wonderful job she has done. Highly recommended.
January 19, 2025
I love a good story about a female who is finally getting much-deserved recognition for her accomplishments. It’s terrible how women have been excluded from much of history. The rise in historical fiction writers who in recent years have been bringing the names of these many, many women to light is wonderful. Totally long overdue, but better late than never.
Annie Edson Taylor is one such women who holds a unique spot in history, yet her name is one most people don’t recognize. I certainly didn’t. In 1901, she was the first person to survive going over Niagara Falls in a barrel. Not the first woman ever... the first PERSON ever. How amazing! (And on her 63rd birthday, at that!) Yet no one knows her name or anything about her life. Author Caroline Cauchi didn’t have a lot of resources to draw upon in order to write Taylor’s story, but she has pieced together what she could and has given us a somewhat factual story of Taylor’s life leading up to her stunt, and what happened to her in the years following her plunge over the Falls.
I really wanted to love this book (if for no other reason, the cover is beautiful!). I liked the story because I learned who Annie Edson Taylor was and I’m glad she’s getting the recognition she deserves. However, the fictionalized account of her life didn’t really grab me as much as I would have liked. I know the author had to use a lot of creative license to “fill in the gaps”, but I almost wish that the story had been much shorter, with less “filler”. Annie’s relationship with the fictional Tilda just didn’t ring true with me, particularly that fact that Annie refused to acknowledge Tilda for the rest of her life after the Falls. I don’t care what reason she gave, it just didn’t sit right with me. (And on a mildly irritating note: why on earth did the author interchange the name “Matilda” and “Tilda” constantly... often from one paragraph to the next? At first I thought they were two characters! Maybe I’m missing some sort of literary device?)
I’m glad I read it, and I’m glad I now know about the courageous and unconventional Annie Taylor. I just wish I’d enjoyed the fictional aspect of her story better.
Annie Edson Taylor is one such women who holds a unique spot in history, yet her name is one most people don’t recognize. I certainly didn’t. In 1901, she was the first person to survive going over Niagara Falls in a barrel. Not the first woman ever... the first PERSON ever. How amazing! (And on her 63rd birthday, at that!) Yet no one knows her name or anything about her life. Author Caroline Cauchi didn’t have a lot of resources to draw upon in order to write Taylor’s story, but she has pieced together what she could and has given us a somewhat factual story of Taylor’s life leading up to her stunt, and what happened to her in the years following her plunge over the Falls.
I really wanted to love this book (if for no other reason, the cover is beautiful!). I liked the story because I learned who Annie Edson Taylor was and I’m glad she’s getting the recognition she deserves. However, the fictionalized account of her life didn’t really grab me as much as I would have liked. I know the author had to use a lot of creative license to “fill in the gaps”, but I almost wish that the story had been much shorter, with less “filler”. Annie’s relationship with the fictional Tilda just didn’t ring true with me, particularly that fact that Annie refused to acknowledge Tilda for the rest of her life after the Falls. I don’t care what reason she gave, it just didn’t sit right with me. (And on a mildly irritating note: why on earth did the author interchange the name “Matilda” and “Tilda” constantly... often from one paragraph to the next? At first I thought they were two characters! Maybe I’m missing some sort of literary device?)
I’m glad I read it, and I’m glad I now know about the courageous and unconventional Annie Taylor. I just wish I’d enjoyed the fictional aspect of her story better.
September 30, 2024
I remember as a child hearing about a woman who went over Niagara Falls in a barrel. I was thrilled to learn more about Annie Edson Taylor in a new fictionalized account of her life, The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls in a Barrel by Caroline Cauchi.
Annie, a former teacer, was 63 and considered an old woman when she became the first person to succeed in her daring exploit in 1901.
At the start of the book it’s 1901 and she is living in lodgings provided for women down on their luck. The women who live there can’t afford to pay rent so they earn their keep by cooking and cleaning.
Annie is emotionally stilted, having carried unresolved grief since the death of her son in the year he was born, followed by the death of her husband two years later when she was 20.
A recurring theme is women helping each other. Cauchi reveals that Annie published a memoir in which she said she undertook the stunt to earn money to help two women who lived at the boarding house. This story of two friendships forms big part of the story.
Annie found it hard to get backers for her audacious stunt. Eventually a showman agreed to fund the cost of the special barrel she designed. Annie will pay him back from promotional earnings afterwards. Her age is recorded as 43.
The terrifying stunt is beautifully recorded and we can almost imagine we are crammed into the reinforced and sealed barrel, unable to hear anything except the mighty roar of the water.
Annie survived, unlike countless others who attempted the same feat. Her “manager” stole the barrel and did promotions without her. Her success faded very fast and she ended up in a pauper’s grave in the 1920s. Fortunately a campaign to rectify this saw her being re- buried in Stunter’s Corner at Niagara.
I loved how indomitable and determined Cauchi made Annie. She was entirely unlike women were supposed to be at this time, demure, quiet and the property of men. It’s wonderful that her achievement has been made visible again.
December 29, 2024
In this fun and fascinating new historical fiction novel, readers discover Annie Edson Taylor, the first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel in 1901. Following her life before, in the leadup to, and after her death-defying stunt, readers discover the struggles of middle-aged womanhood in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. Following Annie and a few of her friends and fellow residents at the same boarding house, readers learn Annie’s story, her success, and her struggles over the course of this engaging and immensely entertaining new novel. With so many different perspectives and complex characters, Caroline Cauchi balances the many different characters and perspectives incredibly well throughout the book; while Annie dominates the narrative, the other characters get the chance to shine among the pages. The characters really bring the turn of the twentieth century and this new culture of spectacle and daredevil stunts to life, providing insight into this fascinating cultural shift through a historical fictional lens. Readers will love Cauchi’s characters and their interactions with each other, and the interpersonal conflicts, increasing as Annie’s fame increases, really adds a great level of tension to this fascinating and exciting new historical fiction novel about an incredible yet forgotten woman from history.
Thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, and One More Chapter for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, and One More Chapter for the advance copy.
October 1, 2024
***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
This historical fiction novel is about Mrs Annie Edson Taylor., the first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel. I admit I had never heard of Mrs. Taylor before, as I imagine most of you are in the same camp as me. However, I always love reading about fearless women who were trailblazers, unsung heroes, and the women who caused change while taking little to no credit for it. Mrs. Taylor fell into the first category. She loved doing stunts, proving how fearless she was, and she was further motivated by poverty. She had hoped that she would be able to ride the barrel down the rapids, live to tell the tale, and then make money from it. Unfortunately, things didn't work out the way she had planned. She chose an unscrupulous business partner who took advantage of her and took her barrel and her money, leaving her to die penniless. However, she did have a wealth of friends - women who she had helped throughout the years, who loved her dearly and would do anything for her in return. In between the chapters in the story, there are letters to and from Mrs. Taylor., as well as other correspondence. I found this book - and Mrs. Taylor - to be fascinating. If you are a fan of historical fiction, then you will definitely want to check this out.
This historical fiction novel is about Mrs Annie Edson Taylor., the first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel. I admit I had never heard of Mrs. Taylor before, as I imagine most of you are in the same camp as me. However, I always love reading about fearless women who were trailblazers, unsung heroes, and the women who caused change while taking little to no credit for it. Mrs. Taylor fell into the first category. She loved doing stunts, proving how fearless she was, and she was further motivated by poverty. She had hoped that she would be able to ride the barrel down the rapids, live to tell the tale, and then make money from it. Unfortunately, things didn't work out the way she had planned. She chose an unscrupulous business partner who took advantage of her and took her barrel and her money, leaving her to die penniless. However, she did have a wealth of friends - women who she had helped throughout the years, who loved her dearly and would do anything for her in return. In between the chapters in the story, there are letters to and from Mrs. Taylor., as well as other correspondence. I found this book - and Mrs. Taylor - to be fascinating. If you are a fan of historical fiction, then you will definitely want to check this out.
October 1, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for this eCopy to review
The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls in a Barrel is inspired by the true story of Annie Edson Taylor, the first person to survive going over Niagara Falls in a barrel, it is a testament to courage and determination.
From the moment I picked up the book, I was captivated by Cauchi’s vivid storytelling. The way she brought Annie’s character to life was nothing short of magical. I could feel Annie’s fear, her resolve, and her indomitable spirit as she prepared for and executed her daring feat. The historical context was richly detailed, making me feel as though I was right there in the early 1900s, witnessing this incredible event unfold.
The narrative was both heart-wrenching and inspiring. I laughed, cried, and found myself holding my breath during the tense moments leading up to Annie’s plunge over the falls. Cauchi’s writing is both poetic and gripping, making it impossible to put the book down. The themes of defying societal expectations and pushing the boundaries of what is possible resonated deeply with me.
Overall, The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls in a Barrel is a beautifully crafted novel that celebrates the extraordinary bravery of a woman who refused to be confined by the limitations of her time.
The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls in a Barrel is inspired by the true story of Annie Edson Taylor, the first person to survive going over Niagara Falls in a barrel, it is a testament to courage and determination.
From the moment I picked up the book, I was captivated by Cauchi’s vivid storytelling. The way she brought Annie’s character to life was nothing short of magical. I could feel Annie’s fear, her resolve, and her indomitable spirit as she prepared for and executed her daring feat. The historical context was richly detailed, making me feel as though I was right there in the early 1900s, witnessing this incredible event unfold.
The narrative was both heart-wrenching and inspiring. I laughed, cried, and found myself holding my breath during the tense moments leading up to Annie’s plunge over the falls. Cauchi’s writing is both poetic and gripping, making it impossible to put the book down. The themes of defying societal expectations and pushing the boundaries of what is possible resonated deeply with me.
Overall, The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls in a Barrel is a beautifully crafted novel that celebrates the extraordinary bravery of a woman who refused to be confined by the limitations of her time.
October 10, 2024
I love reading about intrepid women, and a woman going Niagara Falls in barrel is certainly that!
Based on the true account of Annie Edson Taylor being the first person to successfully go over the falls and survive, this is a very personal glimpse into her tragic past, inner turmoil and amazing determination to conquer stereo types of the time. In this fictionalised tale, Annie had already proved herself as a saviour to countless women hard done by and looking for a roof over their heads ....their tributes are spread through the book. But she had more to prove - beating ageism and sexism, and displaying courage beyond words, she later claimed the daredevil stunt was her trying to raise funds for an ill friend and a young mother. Selfless. Senseless?
Annie was astute, highly organised and clever enough to throughly research the barrel she required to do the job, but she underestimated the greed of someone she trusted as her manager.
Thanks to NetGalley, Caroline Cauchi and Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter for this inspiring and often emotional telling of The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls in a Barrel. Don't forget those women, who stronger together, conquer sexism and deserve their rightful place in history. Caroline once again impresses and enthralls me with her sensitive re-telling of significant people in history.....inspiring me to excel and be proud to be a woman.
Based on the true account of Annie Edson Taylor being the first person to successfully go over the falls and survive, this is a very personal glimpse into her tragic past, inner turmoil and amazing determination to conquer stereo types of the time. In this fictionalised tale, Annie had already proved herself as a saviour to countless women hard done by and looking for a roof over their heads ....their tributes are spread through the book. But she had more to prove - beating ageism and sexism, and displaying courage beyond words, she later claimed the daredevil stunt was her trying to raise funds for an ill friend and a young mother. Selfless. Senseless?
Annie was astute, highly organised and clever enough to throughly research the barrel she required to do the job, but she underestimated the greed of someone she trusted as her manager.
Thanks to NetGalley, Caroline Cauchi and Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter for this inspiring and often emotional telling of The Woman Who Went Over Niagara Falls in a Barrel. Don't forget those women, who stronger together, conquer sexism and deserve their rightful place in history. Caroline once again impresses and enthralls me with her sensitive re-telling of significant people in history.....inspiring me to excel and be proud to be a woman.
October 19, 2024
This is the story of Annie Edson Tayor, the first woman encased in a barrel who plunged down Horseshoe Falls, Niagara, and survived. Her history-making adventure has been forgotten; most people don’t know this woman existed.
The first half of this novel was very boring and deserves a three-star rating. However, since the quest was being discussed to its fullest, verbal conversations were needed to introduce the essential story. I decided to continue reading.
The second half of the book deserves a four. Annie was grieving a heavy loss, her son and husband’s deaths. She was tortured by the fact that she lived and they passed away. To conquer her profound loss, Annie was committed to live or die by going over the Falls to prove that a woman could be the first to accomplish this daring feat.
While living in a boarding house with her friend, Mrs. Lapointe, Annie provides a haven for destitute women, one being, Matilda & her baby daughter, Nora. These three women & baby become close-knit and bond like a family. But Matilda is fleeing from Nora’s father, an abuser. When he finds Matilda, she must vanish for Nora’s safety. This big loss for this courageous woman makes her more determined than ever to take the plunge.
The first half of this novel was very boring and deserves a three-star rating. However, since the quest was being discussed to its fullest, verbal conversations were needed to introduce the essential story. I decided to continue reading.
The second half of the book deserves a four. Annie was grieving a heavy loss, her son and husband’s deaths. She was tortured by the fact that she lived and they passed away. To conquer her profound loss, Annie was committed to live or die by going over the Falls to prove that a woman could be the first to accomplish this daring feat.
While living in a boarding house with her friend, Mrs. Lapointe, Annie provides a haven for destitute women, one being, Matilda & her baby daughter, Nora. These three women & baby become close-knit and bond like a family. But Matilda is fleeing from Nora’s father, an abuser. When he finds Matilda, she must vanish for Nora’s safety. This big loss for this courageous woman makes her more determined than ever to take the plunge.
November 28, 2024
Having enjoyed Cauchi's previous work Mrs Van Gogh and being a Niagara native with an interest in local history, I thought this one would be worth checking out. It was a good read, but it just did not quite deliver for me on a couple of points. One, I think, being from that area I wanted the area itself to be more of a character in the story. Much of the book is set in Bay City (which I had to look up, is actually in Michigan but seemed to be at an ill-defined distance from Buffalo as the story progressed). Annie Edson Taylor's character was interesting but I was a little underwhelmed with the dual storyline of the fictitious Matilda and I did not always feel Cauchi got the balance right. I felt at times that storyline took away from time that could have been spent on Edson Taylor's backstory. I enjoyed the epistolary tone Matilda's character took at the end and wished that might have been a device employed throughout. Nonetheless, I thought the novel did an good job wrestling with how to view the fine line between bravery and recklessness in public stunts, as well as perceptions of aging women which is a theme not always tackled in historical fiction. It was a good read and it did pique my interest in Edson Taylor and women daredevils more generally. 3.5/5
December 16, 2024
I wanted to read this book as soon as I saw the cover and realized the setting is close to my backyard. There’s nothing this Canadian reader loves more than reading historical fiction taking place in Canada. Though most of the story takes place across the border it does revolve around Annie Edson Taylor the first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel .
It’s not a quick read coming in at 400 pages and after the first couple of chapters I did move over to the audiobook. It was a fascinating look at Annie’s life, her friendships with those residents of a boarding house she helps to run. A look into her past reveals her grief over the loss of loved ones, but also shows her with an independent spirit as she strives to take care of others.
Told not just from Annie’s point of view there were times I felt it a little disjointed, and even parts of the story were not necessary, making the book longer than it needed to be. That being said one couldn’t help feel for Annie and the things that go on in her life after her trip over the fall.
Queen of the Mist was an educational read that will appeal to those that like reading about unknown women in history.
This book was part of my 2024 reading off my shelf challenge.
It’s not a quick read coming in at 400 pages and after the first couple of chapters I did move over to the audiobook. It was a fascinating look at Annie’s life, her friendships with those residents of a boarding house she helps to run. A look into her past reveals her grief over the loss of loved ones, but also shows her with an independent spirit as she strives to take care of others.
Told not just from Annie’s point of view there were times I felt it a little disjointed, and even parts of the story were not necessary, making the book longer than it needed to be. That being said one couldn’t help feel for Annie and the things that go on in her life after her trip over the fall.
Queen of the Mist was an educational read that will appeal to those that like reading about unknown women in history.
This book was part of my 2024 reading off my shelf challenge.
September 20, 2024
School teacher. Widow. Legend. Meet the courageous Mrs Annie Edson Taylor. The loveliest woman you've never heard of and the first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel - over a decade before any male daredevil had the balls to do the same!
There's no way I would go over Niagara Falls in a barrel. But this book is so much more than going over Niagara Falls. If we could get into Annie's inner thoughts, we would soon realise that there is more to her character. She lost a newborn son in 1861 and her husband two years later at the Battle of Gettysburg. Annie's reasons for doing this amazing but death-defying act was to help her two friends. What an incredible thing to do, especially when it could have ended with Annie losing her life. This is a beautifully written story that's based on true events. My emotions were all over the place. Annie has incredible courage.
Published 1st October 2024
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author CarolineCauhi for my ARC of #TheWomanWhoWentOverNiagaraFallsInABarrel in exchange for an honest review.
There's no way I would go over Niagara Falls in a barrel. But this book is so much more than going over Niagara Falls. If we could get into Annie's inner thoughts, we would soon realise that there is more to her character. She lost a newborn son in 1861 and her husband two years later at the Battle of Gettysburg. Annie's reasons for doing this amazing but death-defying act was to help her two friends. What an incredible thing to do, especially when it could have ended with Annie losing her life. This is a beautifully written story that's based on true events. My emotions were all over the place. Annie has incredible courage.
Published 1st October 2024
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author CarolineCauhi for my ARC of #TheWomanWhoWentOverNiagaraFallsInABarrel in exchange for an honest review.
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