Known for her journalism and books about the distribution of power and wealth, McQuaig's first work of fiction (inspired by the 1982 film The Return of Martin Guerre and Margaret Atwood's Alias Grace) takes place in Upper Canada on the eve of the 1837 rebellions.-- "Globe and Mail"

I loved this book. Set in Upper Canada in the 1830s, it's the fascinating tale of Scottish immigrants trying to navigate tumultuous church divisions and a mounting rebellion. At the centre is a love story, imperiled by misunderstandings, poor choices, social rigidity, and chance. Attempting to save their union, the lovers seek safety in deceit.-- "Barbara Nichol, author of Beethoven Lives Upstairs"

Readers familiar with McQuaig's non-fiction will recognize her clear prose, stiletto wit, and passion for social justice. But in the realm of fiction, her palette is darker and her subject deeply sensual. McQuaig evokes pinpoints of civilization amid the looming forests of 19th century Upper Canada with the authority of an eyewitness. The Road to Goderich is a compelling tale, operatic in scope, of romance, political struggle, deception, and desire.-- "David Macfarlane, author of The Danger Tree"

A page turner. Written with a spare style and fitting together like a complex puzzle, the unexpected turns, excitement, and realistic dialogue authentically capture Scotland and Upper Canada in the 1830s.-- "Gordon Laxer, author of After the Sands"

This novel is wonderfully told with remarkable characters, an engaging plot, page-turning tension and a deep understanding of the political history of the period and locale. Highly recommended.

What an extraordinary moment for Linda McQuaig's new novel to revisit the rebellion of 1837, Canada's historic uprising in the name of sovereignty from a foreign empire. Someone should read it to Donald Trump. Her deft exploration of the private and public fabric of that era would've delighted readers on its own. Its poignant resonance with events today is a bonus.

Like Susanna Moodie's pioneering Roughing It in the Bush, about her early years as a settler in Upper Canada, Linda McQuaig's novel revives 1832 rural Ontario in gutting and glorious detail.

A stunning debut, one that is captivating, fast moving, suitably perplexing without being overwrought, and infused with great moral power.

Linda McQuaig's tale of early Canada is deeply researched and beautifully depicted, with descriptions so unsettling as to mesmerize.

Known for her journalism and books about the distribution of power and wealth, McQuaig's first work of fiction (inspired by the 1982 film The Return of Martin Guerre and Margaret Atwood's Alias Grace) takes place in Upper Canada on the eve of the 1837 rebellions.

I loved this book. Set in Upper Canada in the 1830s, it's the fascinating tale of Scottish immigrants trying to navigate tumultuous church divisions and a mounting rebellion. At the centre is a love story, imperiled by misunderstandings, poor choices, social rigidity, and chance. Attempting to save their union, the lovers seek safety in deceit.

Readers familiar with McQuaig's non-fiction will recognize her clear prose, stiletto wit, and passion for social justice. But in the realm of fiction, her palette is darker and her subject deeply sensual. McQuaig evokes pinpoints of civilization amid the looming forests of 19th century Upper Canada with the authority of an eyewitness. The Road to Goderich is a compelling tale, operatic in scope, of romance, political struggle, deception, and desire.

A page turner. Written with a spare style and fitting together like a complex puzzle, the unexpected turns, excitement, and realistic dialogue authentically capture Scotland and Upper Canada in the 1830s.

This novel is wonderfully told with remarkable characters, an engaging plot, page-turning tension and a deep understanding of the political history of the period and locale. Highly recommended.

What an extraordinary moment for Linda McQuaig's new novel to revisit the rebellion of 1837, Canada's historic uprising in the name of sovereignty from a foreign empire. Someone should read it to Donald Trump. Her deft exploration of the private and public fabric of that era would've delighted readers on its own. Its poignant resonance with events today is a bonus.

Like Susanna Moodie's pioneering Roughing It in the Bush, about her early years as a settler in Upper Canada, Linda McQuaig's novel revives 1832 rural Ontario in gutting and glorious detail.

A stunning debut, one that is captivating, fast moving, suitably perplexing without being overwrought, and infused with great moral power.