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Widow Walk Saga #2
Isthmus
It is 1860 and revolution is erupting throughout the world over universal emancipation. Civil war looms in the Unites States. In the midst of it all, a young woman is moving back to Boston with what is left of her family, devastated and bankrupted by savage, tragic events that occurred less than a year ago in the Pacific Northwest. They traverse a hostile terrain on the new Panama isthmus railroad, the most modern transportation in the world. From inside their coach they watch the humid forest, a different type of green from what they knew up north, slipping fast past, a warm verdant blur. Looking down the aisle they see an uncomfortable array of fellow travelers, an international mix of characters with whom they will get to know all too well . . . each with hidden hopes and dreams . . . predators and victims, desperadoes and hangmen, widows and widow makers. A convenient ride through the jungle. An inconvenient assault. A run for their lives.
482 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 23, 2017
211 people are currently reading
73 people want to read
About the author
Gar Lasalle
7 books32 followersBorn in Seattle, Gar LaSalle writes from his home in Seattle and his studio on Maury Island in the Puget Sound area of Washington State.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
January 9, 2015
“Isthmus” is a gripping, lucid grassroots story of the times set in in the 1800's. LaSelle declines the strict use of great battles and big men as its fulcrum, opting instead for a look at the people of these times, creating an absorbing social history. In the tradition Gerald LaSalle has produced a book that is a work of both history and literature, a deep, rich, and complex analysis of the people and period surrounding the Isthmus of Panama, the gold rush, and the years before the American Civil War.
We get to traverse again with Emmy on her journey upon the Panama isthmus railroad. Emmy and her family are on the train, and going back to Boston. (my favorite character from “Window Walk”), she observes fellow travelers, as any one might do in concurrence. The characters are awesomely portrayed on their plight of forbearing travels in the author’s rendition.
A story of a war waged on and off the battlefield, a war of politics and ideology that transformed the culture unfolds brilliantly in the able hands of this fine historian. We are once again introduced to the lives of famous men in this 1800 era. Example is Ran Runnels, famously known throughout Panama then and now as “El Verdugo” or “The Hangman,” He became known famously as the secret “Isthmus Guard,” for his tortures escapades and delivery of justice. Then there is General Giuseppe Garibaldi and the Risorgimento dominated the headlines of newspapers throughout the Western world in the mid-nineteenth century. Garibaldi inspired young idealists internationally with his revolutionary exploits in South America.
General readers and seasoned scholars alike will find new information and insights in this eye-opening account. Splendidly colorful . . . A deep, rich, and complex analysis of the period surrounding and including this era in history. LaSalle recounts this tale about the Isthmus of Panama, the history of the Panama railroad; and of the Pacific Mail Steamship Company, together with a traveler’s innuendo of the Panama Railroad that connects it all together in a southern institutional rot with the ease and authority born of decades of study. He offers a fresh perspective on this oft-told story by relying heavily on personal letters, journals and excerpts from documented history. . . . LaSalle’s well-documented study provides a concise and well-written overview of the conflict and a cogent discussion of . . . still-polarizing issues.” The rails of Isthmus takes a very close look at an episode usually understated in histories.
This book kept me riveted to the characters so deftly portrayed by this writer, and I was completely swept up in the totality of this poignant story. I look forward to reading more of the books written by LaSalle. I was given this book for my honest review, and honestly I thought that it was a great read. Thank you for sharing your work.
My favorite quote from the book:
POSTSCRIPT DIA DEL DIABLO
“On this day each year, in the streets, the devils fight with the children of the Cimaroons. The blacks and Mestizos will tell you that these devils— red, green , and blue, with sharp teeth and wooden faces that split open to become human— are the slavers who took them and beat them and killed them and maimed them for centuries. The fight goes on all day and all night in this sacred time, down the alleys of Portobelo and Nombre de Dios, the purging contests moving aside only for the passing procession of the velvet-robed Black Christ who cannot be put back into his sanctuary until midnight and all the devils have been transformed back into human beings, blessed and saved by holy water of the christening.
On that day, in the year of the Lord 1860, the mute Mestizo woman carried her husband, whose ears had been cut away when he was a boy, to the pyre she had built near the old fort from the wood of abandoned houses where men had died in pain and no one returned because their ghosts stayed on. It was a grand fire that she tended all night. She knew he deserved it because he was the only one who had ever heard her, the only one who really listened. And when the ashes were picked up by the morning’s incoming tide, they spread him along the long shore that belonged to everyone who was free on the earth
We get to traverse again with Emmy on her journey upon the Panama isthmus railroad. Emmy and her family are on the train, and going back to Boston. (my favorite character from “Window Walk”), she observes fellow travelers, as any one might do in concurrence. The characters are awesomely portrayed on their plight of forbearing travels in the author’s rendition.
A story of a war waged on and off the battlefield, a war of politics and ideology that transformed the culture unfolds brilliantly in the able hands of this fine historian. We are once again introduced to the lives of famous men in this 1800 era. Example is Ran Runnels, famously known throughout Panama then and now as “El Verdugo” or “The Hangman,” He became known famously as the secret “Isthmus Guard,” for his tortures escapades and delivery of justice. Then there is General Giuseppe Garibaldi and the Risorgimento dominated the headlines of newspapers throughout the Western world in the mid-nineteenth century. Garibaldi inspired young idealists internationally with his revolutionary exploits in South America.
General readers and seasoned scholars alike will find new information and insights in this eye-opening account. Splendidly colorful . . . A deep, rich, and complex analysis of the period surrounding and including this era in history. LaSalle recounts this tale about the Isthmus of Panama, the history of the Panama railroad; and of the Pacific Mail Steamship Company, together with a traveler’s innuendo of the Panama Railroad that connects it all together in a southern institutional rot with the ease and authority born of decades of study. He offers a fresh perspective on this oft-told story by relying heavily on personal letters, journals and excerpts from documented history. . . . LaSalle’s well-documented study provides a concise and well-written overview of the conflict and a cogent discussion of . . . still-polarizing issues.” The rails of Isthmus takes a very close look at an episode usually understated in histories.
This book kept me riveted to the characters so deftly portrayed by this writer, and I was completely swept up in the totality of this poignant story. I look forward to reading more of the books written by LaSalle. I was given this book for my honest review, and honestly I thought that it was a great read. Thank you for sharing your work.
My favorite quote from the book:
POSTSCRIPT DIA DEL DIABLO
“On this day each year, in the streets, the devils fight with the children of the Cimaroons. The blacks and Mestizos will tell you that these devils— red, green , and blue, with sharp teeth and wooden faces that split open to become human— are the slavers who took them and beat them and killed them and maimed them for centuries. The fight goes on all day and all night in this sacred time, down the alleys of Portobelo and Nombre de Dios, the purging contests moving aside only for the passing procession of the velvet-robed Black Christ who cannot be put back into his sanctuary until midnight and all the devils have been transformed back into human beings, blessed and saved by holy water of the christening.
On that day, in the year of the Lord 1860, the mute Mestizo woman carried her husband, whose ears had been cut away when he was a boy, to the pyre she had built near the old fort from the wood of abandoned houses where men had died in pain and no one returned because their ghosts stayed on. It was a grand fire that she tended all night. She knew he deserved it because he was the only one who had ever heard her, the only one who really listened. And when the ashes were picked up by the morning’s incoming tide, they spread him along the long shore that belonged to everyone who was free on the earth
March 4, 2015
Isthmus is the second book in what appears to be an on-going series. The family from the previous book, Widow Walk, is heading back to the East Coast after surviving a devastating tragedy in their attempt to make a home in the rugged and untamed Pacific Northwest. Unfortunately, their trip home is not the restful, quiet one they deserve.
As in his first book, Mr. Lasalle's descriptions are wonderful. I had no problem immersing myself in the story and getting lost there. The characters are well-developed, and I found myself feeling unexpectedly compassionate towards the main antagonist. As historical fiction, it was educational as well as entertaining, which was helpful as my knowledge of this period of history was basically nonexistent. I expect the next book in the series will be just as good, and look forward to reading it.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
As in his first book, Mr. Lasalle's descriptions are wonderful. I had no problem immersing myself in the story and getting lost there. The characters are well-developed, and I found myself feeling unexpectedly compassionate towards the main antagonist. As historical fiction, it was educational as well as entertaining, which was helpful as my knowledge of this period of history was basically nonexistent. I expect the next book in the series will be just as good, and look forward to reading it.
I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2015
REVIEW: ISTHMUS
In this second novel in the WIDOW WALK series, a family rocked to its core by tribulations in the Pacific Northwest, proceed to return to more peaceful Boston. It is 1860, and the steam of events eventually to commence war the next year has already begun to stir tendrils in the political and economic situations of the relatively young nation. The Panama Canal will not be constructed for another 54 years, but the Isthmus Railway is popular and going strong--if not necessarily safely.
In this second novel in the WIDOW WALK series, a family rocked to its core by tribulations in the Pacific Northwest, proceed to return to more peaceful Boston. It is 1860, and the steam of events eventually to commence war the next year has already begun to stir tendrils in the political and economic situations of the relatively young nation. The Panama Canal will not be constructed for another 54 years, but the Isthmus Railway is popular and going strong--if not necessarily safely.
May 29, 2020
Thrilling jungle adventure
This is the second book of a trilogy. The 1st book taking place in the Pacific northwest, this second book in the area of the current Panama Canal what was or is known as the Isthmus. The main characters Emily Evers, her children and a Pacific NW native, JoJo travel through on the Panama train on their way to Boston in the U.S.
Traveling with them are assortment of characters, miners from the gold fields of California, visitors from the East returning home, an Italian expatriate, slave laborers, and some locals. Unknown to the passengers, one of the natives has planned a gold robbery.
There was a lot of action and the story moves along quite fast. I like how the author fleshed out the characters so that you get a good feel for their appearance, their thoughts and actions. I will definitely read the 3rd book of this trilogy.
This is the second book of a trilogy. The 1st book taking place in the Pacific northwest, this second book in the area of the current Panama Canal what was or is known as the Isthmus. The main characters Emily Evers, her children and a Pacific NW native, JoJo travel through on the Panama train on their way to Boston in the U.S.
Traveling with them are assortment of characters, miners from the gold fields of California, visitors from the East returning home, an Italian expatriate, slave laborers, and some locals. Unknown to the passengers, one of the natives has planned a gold robbery.
There was a lot of action and the story moves along quite fast. I like how the author fleshed out the characters so that you get a good feel for their appearance, their thoughts and actions. I will definitely read the 3rd book of this trilogy.
January 18, 2020
I was interested in continuing Emmy's adventure but it was hard to see her getting all banged up again. She is such a "beautiful" woman according to both Widow Walk books, it's hard to read all that happens to her and her kids. I am looking forward to the 3rd book as I am a Civil War buff and am interested to see just how accurate they depict the war in Virginia. Only gave 4 stars cuz of the violence on Emmy and children.
July 29, 2020
Isthmus (Widow Walk Trilogy Bk 2)
I actually enjoyed this, but it is much more complex than Widow’s Walk, Book 1 of this trilogy, and was more difficult for me to track all the characters and their various pieces in the plot, if I took any kind of break. But I enjoyed being reminded of the history of the area during the finalizing of the Panama Railroad, connecting Pacific Ocean to Atlantic.
I actually enjoyed this, but it is much more complex than Widow’s Walk, Book 1 of this trilogy, and was more difficult for me to track all the characters and their various pieces in the plot, if I took any kind of break. But I enjoyed being reminded of the history of the area during the finalizing of the Panama Railroad, connecting Pacific Ocean to Atlantic.
March 19, 2019
This is a continuations of the first book, 'Widow Walk'. Emma, and her two children got on a train going to New Orleans with an assistant to help her.
While traveling a revolution started, the trains wrecked. Some of the men grabbed Emma, the children ran to the woods to hide. Everyone scattered and was yelling, they had to ride mules, walk or ride horses. Every place Emma went she was looking for her children. Hundreds of people died, or were injured.
This was a rough book to read, raw characters, bad situations, no place go, or time to sleep, no food, no clean clothes. The people from the train wreck was wandering around lost. This was not my kind of book although I did finish it.
While traveling a revolution started, the trains wrecked. Some of the men grabbed Emma, the children ran to the woods to hide. Everyone scattered and was yelling, they had to ride mules, walk or ride horses. Every place Emma went she was looking for her children. Hundreds of people died, or were injured.
This was a rough book to read, raw characters, bad situations, no place go, or time to sleep, no food, no clean clothes. The people from the train wreck was wandering around lost. This was not my kind of book although I did finish it.
May 1, 2019
3/4 of the way into this book I was fully prepared to give it 5 stars, but the ending felt rushed and left the fates of several POV characters unresolved. Overall though it is a masterful character study of flawed people.
January 26, 2020
Great read
A sequel worth reading although I found i did not know the names of the settlements along the rail route dealing with the Panama Canal history , I enjoyed this excellent story dealing with the people & survival .
A sequel worth reading although I found i did not know the names of the settlements along the rail route dealing with the Panama Canal history , I enjoyed this excellent story dealing with the people & survival .
December 8, 2018
Historical Novel
I didn't find Isthmus as good a book as Widow Walk. This novel seemed to drag somewhat. The history in it was all new to me which was interesting.
I didn't find Isthmus as good a book as Widow Walk. This novel seemed to drag somewhat. The history in it was all new to me which was interesting.
December 21, 2018
Did not finish . Plot dragged . Historical facts interesting but tired of waiting for things to happen
August 24, 2019
Sad
Too much evil for me to sleep well after reading and so sad Emmy has to endure such pain again.
Too much evil for me to sleep well after reading and so sad Emmy has to endure such pain again.
February 4, 2021
Great series from a unique story teller.
June 25, 2015
About the Book:
It is 1860 and revolution is erupting throughout the world over universal emancipation. Civil war looms in the Unites States. In the midst of it all, a young woman is moving back to Boston with what is left of her family, devastated and bankrupted by savage, tragic events that occurred less than a year ago in the Pacific Northwest. They traverse a hostile terrain on the new Panama isthmus railroad, the most modern transportation in the world. From inside their coach they watch the humid forest, a different type of green from what they knew up north, slipping fast past, a warm verdant blur. Looking down the aisle they see an uncomfortable array of fellow travelers, an international mix of characters with whom they will get to know all too well . . . each with hidden hopes and dreams . . . predators and victims, desperadoes and hangmen, widows and widow makers. A convenient ride through the jungle. An inconvenient assault. A run for their lives.
My Review:
Bocamalo, an Indian, has seen many things as a child. How abusive men were to his mother, Ava, and everything she had to go through to raise him. Changing his name to Rafael and boarding a train, his plan to evade his past, seems to be going all to well.
Emmy mourns her husband’s death whole heartily, but with her mother so close to death she must board a train with her son Jacob, her daughter Sarah, and an Indian boy named Jojo.
Scarpella, a father to two young children, cares to do nothing more to care for his family. He, his children, and his wife Lita, board a train in hopes of a new home.
The train heads for Boston, but a man named Foil has other plans for the train. With the cargo in his sight, he will stop at nothing to make the train stop, before it finally meets it’s destination.
Isthmus, the sequel to Widow Walk, follows Emmy and her journey to healing and to her mother in Boston. But things change, and she is stripped of many things including her family and bare necessities. But finds help in one of the most unlikeliest men. But he too, may have ulterior motives.
Isthmus is an amazing book! I enjoyed each character and their influence on the story. The author did an amazing job and I hope to see another book in the future!
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
It is 1860 and revolution is erupting throughout the world over universal emancipation. Civil war looms in the Unites States. In the midst of it all, a young woman is moving back to Boston with what is left of her family, devastated and bankrupted by savage, tragic events that occurred less than a year ago in the Pacific Northwest. They traverse a hostile terrain on the new Panama isthmus railroad, the most modern transportation in the world. From inside their coach they watch the humid forest, a different type of green from what they knew up north, slipping fast past, a warm verdant blur. Looking down the aisle they see an uncomfortable array of fellow travelers, an international mix of characters with whom they will get to know all too well . . . each with hidden hopes and dreams . . . predators and victims, desperadoes and hangmen, widows and widow makers. A convenient ride through the jungle. An inconvenient assault. A run for their lives.
My Review:
Bocamalo, an Indian, has seen many things as a child. How abusive men were to his mother, Ava, and everything she had to go through to raise him. Changing his name to Rafael and boarding a train, his plan to evade his past, seems to be going all to well.
Emmy mourns her husband’s death whole heartily, but with her mother so close to death she must board a train with her son Jacob, her daughter Sarah, and an Indian boy named Jojo.
Scarpella, a father to two young children, cares to do nothing more to care for his family. He, his children, and his wife Lita, board a train in hopes of a new home.
The train heads for Boston, but a man named Foil has other plans for the train. With the cargo in his sight, he will stop at nothing to make the train stop, before it finally meets it’s destination.
Isthmus, the sequel to Widow Walk, follows Emmy and her journey to healing and to her mother in Boston. But things change, and she is stripped of many things including her family and bare necessities. But finds help in one of the most unlikeliest men. But he too, may have ulterior motives.
Isthmus is an amazing book! I enjoyed each character and their influence on the story. The author did an amazing job and I hope to see another book in the future!
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the author.
July 31, 2015
“Isthmus” by Gerard Lasalle is a novel set in Panama in the middle of the 19th century. Shipping and travel from the Atlantic to the Pacific was made more available with the building of the Panama Railroad in 1855. Even though the route was made easier travelling by train, the trip was still extremely dangerous because of marauding, murderous bandits. Until the Panama Canal was completed in 1914, the railroad was the most profitable investment opportunity ever.
This novel deals with the Panama Railroad and one trans-isthmus trip. Mr. Lasalle brings the most notorious mercenaries of the period into this novel. Social justice dealing issues were brought to the forefront by the Church and revolutionists seeking to liberate the people of this area from the rich landowners. Each train trip across the isthmus was ripe for the picking by these men because shipments of goods and gold were easy prey. So also were kidnappings of men, women and children in order to obtain ransom for them. These bandits were extremely vicious. This novel is the story of a group of these murderers, victims, and their rescuers. Detailed history of each character begins the novel and as the story progresses, Mr. Lasalle treats each character individually as their stories develop.
I thought this novel presented a very vivid picture of the people of South America and the political atmosphere of the time. I am glad that each character’s story was individually expanded throughout the book, however, I found myself lost at times. I must say that Mr. Lasalle painstakingly described the events thoroughly. I received a print copy of this book from Smith Publicity and a Kindle copy from NetGalley.com in return for my honest review.
You can find this review on my blog at http://wp.me/p2pjIt-gB. Other book reviews can be found on my blog at http://imhookedonbooks.wordpress.com.
This novel deals with the Panama Railroad and one trans-isthmus trip. Mr. Lasalle brings the most notorious mercenaries of the period into this novel. Social justice dealing issues were brought to the forefront by the Church and revolutionists seeking to liberate the people of this area from the rich landowners. Each train trip across the isthmus was ripe for the picking by these men because shipments of goods and gold were easy prey. So also were kidnappings of men, women and children in order to obtain ransom for them. These bandits were extremely vicious. This novel is the story of a group of these murderers, victims, and their rescuers. Detailed history of each character begins the novel and as the story progresses, Mr. Lasalle treats each character individually as their stories develop.
I thought this novel presented a very vivid picture of the people of South America and the political atmosphere of the time. I am glad that each character’s story was individually expanded throughout the book, however, I found myself lost at times. I must say that Mr. Lasalle painstakingly described the events thoroughly. I received a print copy of this book from Smith Publicity and a Kindle copy from NetGalley.com in return for my honest review.
You can find this review on my blog at http://wp.me/p2pjIt-gB. Other book reviews can be found on my blog at http://imhookedonbooks.wordpress.com.
August 13, 2015
This book is historical fiction regarding the Isthmus of Panama post the cross country train and pre-canal, It is a rough and tumble time. Thje basis of the story is real as are many of the primary characters,
/I have read book One of the Widow Walk Saga o I was very happy to have an opportunity to read this book. I really appreciate the writing style of this author but not all readers will be so enthusiastic. If you read books for continuous instant gratification, this book is not for you. The story has far more depth than befits a shallow story.
The format of the book is different from the standard linear story line. The author crafts the story by using the characters as literal narrators of each segment. The story builds as you read the perspective of each character as it relates to the story. You get an in-depth approach to the story by experiencing it as each character relates their experiences of their part of the whole. Some people may not care for the detail that is presented. I relish in that detail because it allows me to understand the characters. I really enjoy the relationship I have with each character. Each chapter is titled to reflect the character that is the subject of the story.
There are numerous references to the first book in the saga, Widow Walk. You need not have read it first but it would help in your understanding. Whether you read Widow Walk first, or not, I really recommended that you do read it.
When I read Widow Walk, I did not realize that it was the first book in a series. Now that I have read Isthmus, I can offer an educated guess of the next book in the series. If I am correct, there is a very deep and entertaining period.
/I have read book One of the Widow Walk Saga o I was very happy to have an opportunity to read this book. I really appreciate the writing style of this author but not all readers will be so enthusiastic. If you read books for continuous instant gratification, this book is not for you. The story has far more depth than befits a shallow story.
The format of the book is different from the standard linear story line. The author crafts the story by using the characters as literal narrators of each segment. The story builds as you read the perspective of each character as it relates to the story. You get an in-depth approach to the story by experiencing it as each character relates their experiences of their part of the whole. Some people may not care for the detail that is presented. I relish in that detail because it allows me to understand the characters. I really enjoy the relationship I have with each character. Each chapter is titled to reflect the character that is the subject of the story.
There are numerous references to the first book in the saga, Widow Walk. You need not have read it first but it would help in your understanding. Whether you read Widow Walk first, or not, I really recommended that you do read it.
When I read Widow Walk, I did not realize that it was the first book in a series. Now that I have read Isthmus, I can offer an educated guess of the next book in the series. If I am correct, there is a very deep and entertaining period.
June 18, 2015
Moving forward a few years from Widow Walk, Emmy is leaving the tragic events and struggle behind and heading back to family in Boston. Traveling via rail along the Panama Isthmus railroad, we are again treated to a story rich in depth and complexity. It is a time of great change and tumult: just before the start of the U.S. Civil War, social, political and mercenary elements are in play.
As in Widow Walk, LaSalle mixes actual figures into the story, giving their perspective and history: Garibaldi with his revolutionary exploits, Runnels the Isthmus Guard, the political ideologues for and against segregation, slavery and expansionism. The issues are varied and complex, as are the people, but all are clearly detailed. The sheer number of people we encounter through Emmy is daunting, but the major issues of the time shine through what could be cluttered.
LaSalle has tied a story to Emmy and allowed us to accompany her as she experiences major events of the 19th century on her way to rebuild her life yet again. The Emmy we saw grow and strengthen in Widow Walk has kept that survivor’s attitude, and yet is still observing all she encounters. There is a continuity in her character that shines through in both stories, and leads us to the next. These books are laden with detail, description and above all an engaging writing style that is a pleasure to read.
I received an eBook copy of the title from the author via Smith Publicity for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
As in Widow Walk, LaSalle mixes actual figures into the story, giving their perspective and history: Garibaldi with his revolutionary exploits, Runnels the Isthmus Guard, the political ideologues for and against segregation, slavery and expansionism. The issues are varied and complex, as are the people, but all are clearly detailed. The sheer number of people we encounter through Emmy is daunting, but the major issues of the time shine through what could be cluttered.
LaSalle has tied a story to Emmy and allowed us to accompany her as she experiences major events of the 19th century on her way to rebuild her life yet again. The Emmy we saw grow and strengthen in Widow Walk has kept that survivor’s attitude, and yet is still observing all she encounters. There is a continuity in her character that shines through in both stories, and leads us to the next. These books are laden with detail, description and above all an engaging writing style that is a pleasure to read.
I received an eBook copy of the title from the author via Smith Publicity for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
August 3, 2015
I was provided with a free copy of this book in return for my honest review. I settled down on a long haul flight to read and was unable to put Isthmus down.
Isthmus is the second novel in the Widow Walk series. This story tells of the widowed Emmy Evers and her children after they the Pacific Northwest. They plan to travel to Boston via train from Panama (Isthmus) but as all good saga’s go, Emmy and her children face a number of difficulties during their journey – Dengue Fever and other illnesses, unscrupulous merchants, sociopathic men who preyed on the travellers to name a few. The plot is rich and complex and will at times leave you wondering how she will survive, but of course she does.
LaSalle weaves historical fact beautifully through this story. A country on the brink of change from the days of slavery; yet many still fought to keep the old way of life. The brutality of the times will shock and appall at times. Each chapter is written about a specific character, and narrated through their eyes. His characters are well thought out and totally believable. Some likeable others not, but either way they will enthrall you.
Isthmus is the second novel in the Widow Walk series. This story tells of the widowed Emmy Evers and her children after they the Pacific Northwest. They plan to travel to Boston via train from Panama (Isthmus) but as all good saga’s go, Emmy and her children face a number of difficulties during their journey – Dengue Fever and other illnesses, unscrupulous merchants, sociopathic men who preyed on the travellers to name a few. The plot is rich and complex and will at times leave you wondering how she will survive, but of course she does.
LaSalle weaves historical fact beautifully through this story. A country on the brink of change from the days of slavery; yet many still fought to keep the old way of life. The brutality of the times will shock and appall at times. Each chapter is written about a specific character, and narrated through their eyes. His characters are well thought out and totally believable. Some likeable others not, but either way they will enthrall you.
January 28, 2015
Isthmus by Gerard LaSalle is the second book in The Widow Walk Saga, taking place along the Isthmus rail ride across the Panama. Overall I quite enjoyed it, it's full of interesting and fascinating characters - my biggest criticism is probably that there were too many characters that you follow in depth. It's hard to get to care about each character, when you're constantly switching from one to the next. This made it hard to get into, but by the end it all came together and became really enjoyable.
It's a fascinating insight into the time period, the challenges around travel, medical issues and insights of the time and cultural clashes.
It's a fascinating insight into the time period, the challenges around travel, medical issues and insights of the time and cultural clashes.
September 10, 2015
Before you read this you might want to pick up the first book in the series, Widow Walk. Isthmus is the second in the series and shows the growth of LaSalle's writing style. The read is smooth and intriguing with plenty of historical research bringing the time period to life. The characters are wonderfully fleshed out and easy to connect with and read about. The story is elegant in form and a very solid example of a well constructed historical fiction novel. I received an ARC through Smith Publicity in exchange for an honest review.
January 19, 2015
The cast of characters is large and diverse. The reader is invited into each of their thoughts, backgrounds and character traits. Now character is, in my mind, a "supporting" role. The author creates a landscape and a character list that is richly drawn, but still leaves the reader wanting more.
June 15, 2022
A must read book! This is a tense adventure like no other! It also portrays what people of the time were like-what they thought and wanted from life, so it is an adventure into the past.
October 1, 2018
Great book. I need to read the third and last in the series my primary complaint is that the plot leaves a lot of loose ends with the characters.needs to be another 100 pages longer!!
November 1, 2018
Really should be 4.5, a very riveting story.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews