Muskeg

by Carla J. Hagen

In 1922, Hazel and Theda are young and in love, but that love is savagely interrupted by a police raid at a Savannah speakeasy. Pressured by Theda’s wealthy family, Hazel avoids prosecution by moving as far away from Theda as possible, eventually finding peace on a remote island on the Minnesota-Canadian border, where she is captivated by the wild shores of Lake of the Woods. In 1937, Hazel is running a fishing resort with Minnie, her new love, when Theda suddenly appears with her 12-year-old son. An angry husband and a posse of detectives are furiously tracking her, and Hazel must make a potentially dangerous and life-changing choice.

Genres: Historical Fiction

283 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 25, 2022

Reviews

[Wendy Kopald · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was really looking forward to reading Carla Hagen's second novel, Muskeg, after thoroughly enjoying Hand Me Down My Walking Cane. This was a great read this summer and I could not put it down. I love how her characters draw you in with their very specific and descriptive details. Some of them are woven into this from the prior book so I felt a connection to them and an interest in how their lives had evolved. The themes in this book are from an era about 100 years ago, yet they are very contemporary as some of the struggles still remain. This book includes themes of intimacy, loyalty, friendship, family, betrayal, same sex relationships, and all of the facets of how much it takes a village to create life for oneself, a life challenged with changes beyond one's control. It is beautifully written and I cannot wait for the final book in the Trilogy!

[Cheri Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a real treat for me, because I grew up in Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota, where much of it is set. And also because, when I was growing up in Lake of the Woods County, I longed a little for the old pioneer days of this remote part of the world. Hagen's book is set in the 1920s and 30s, when the county had a very limited number of real roads; fiddlers played folk tunes at Saturday-night dances at the hotel in Baudette; and more than a few residents spoke only French. Hagen brings this world to life. I'm no expert on Lake of the Woods history--my expertise is limited to a few summers I spent as a teenager dusting artifacts and greeting guests at the Lake of the Woods County Historical Society museum. I did, however, get to witness the real historians there putting together a history of the county, complete with details from interviews with some of the county's oldest residents. Hagen’s book felt meticulously researched and true to what I remember. I really enjoyed it.

[Bricolaureate · Rating 5 out of 5]

A rich exploration of love of all kinds, yet not simply a love story. The author’s love of the land of her youth is woven throughout. Then there is mystery and history too! I thoroughly enjoyed this book. In truth I’ve been waiting for it since I finished Hand Me Down My Walking Cane. But, surprisingly, it’s not a sequel. Some beloved characters appear but each book stands alone. That said, I want to go back and read Hand Me Down while I await the third in this trilogy. I highly recommend both this book, Muskeg, and Hand Me Down My Walking Cane. Carla Hagen is a storyteller who brings you along, not just as an observer, but someone for whom she’s poured a cup of coffee at her kitchen table.

[Ellen Paulseth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this book down. Carla Hagen envelops a compelling story of forbidden love into the rich history and culture of the Minnesota county containing the northernmost point in the United States. The story was at once heart wrenching and heartwarming. You cannot help but feel you are a part of the narrative. Although it is a work of fiction, many of the historical and geographical aspects of the book are detailed with pinpoint accuracy. A must read for anyone, but all Minnesotans, especially.

[Susan Murray · Rating 5 out of 5]

A truly unique and adventurous tale! I love historical fiction but it is often the same types of people and the same types of events. This book has new and unique characters whose stories deserved to be told! Hagen unlocked the magic of the north woods in this wonderful story that exemplifies the love and community that is found in Muskeg.

[Carol Dines · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a terrific historical mystery. The characters are so well drawn, and Hagen does a beautiful job of revealing what early twentieth century life was like for two women in love with each other and forced to flee. A page turner plot, gorgeous descriptions of northern Minnesota and the land of bogs, (where they end up), and a host of compelling characters, this book is a must read!

[Chris Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Hagen's book is a pleasure to read. I felt immersed in the world she described. I found the development of her characters over many years engaging. The mix of character development and a dramatic story worked well for me. My only reservation about Muskeg was the absence of sword fighting and exploding helicopters.

[Richard Lentz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whirlwind story that hovers between 1922 and 1937 and travels from Savannah to Minneapolis to the muskeg and bogs of Lake of the Woods County, Minnesota, and settles in the north in 1937. Enthralling characters, independent women, bullying and stouthearted men, love stories, heartbreak, and a thriller to boot.

[Kate Vogl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was so happy that Hagan has this second book out. A treat to read her work. This time period she focuses on here is all my jam. You know you’re in the hands of a good writer as you read Hagen’s books. You’ll really feel for Hazel and Theda and all her characters. Great stuff. Great, great stuff.