A Lyrical and Original first Novel
Haweswater is that rare accomplishment of most first novels, a masterpiece. Sara Hall's detail of sights, smells, sounds of a rural England nonexistent today is a gift most readers seldom experience. Hall cleverly weaves the lives of Janet Lightburn, a young farm woman and Jack Liggett, an agent of industry and progress, into an tapestry of vibrant emotions on the passion spectrum from hate to love. The reader is caught in the time-old dilemma of cultural tradition versus progress as Janet's beloved valley and quaint farm village are threatened by the construction of a dam that will provide safe water for many. This story, written in exquisite prose and set during the uncertain era between WW I and WW II, is a most entertaining and enjoyable read.
