"The elder statesman of Canadian letters continues to explore the
themes of sin, guilt, and self-discovery . . . A masterful
effort."--Library Journal
Connor Gilmartin's inauspicious, but much beloved, mortal life comes to
an untimely end when he discovers his wife in bed with one of his more
ludicrous associates, theater critic Randall Allard Going. Death becomes
a bit complicated when Gilmartin's out-of-body experience stays an
out-of-body experience.
Enraged at being so unceremoniously cut down by his wife's lover, Gil
vows revenge against the now panic-stricken Going. But first, Gil must
spend his afterlife seated next to his killer at a film festival, where
he views the exploits of his ancestors from the Revolutionary era to his
parents' time, an experience that changes the way he views his life--and
death.
"Mr. Davies is a tremendously enticing storyteller, whether his
characters are cajoling in Welsh brogue or portaging a canoe through the
northern wilderness, but it's possible to ask now and then just how such
and such an incident fits in the master plan of the book. On most
occasions, however, the author, as if sensing our restiveness, provides
an answer."--The New York Times
"Davies's depiction of how the descendants of Samuel Gilmartin came to
emigrate to British North America convincingly blends gritty
humor--including a hilarious Welsh cursing contest--with sympathetic
portrayals of his characters."--Kirkus Reviews
"The unexpected conceit devised by the author of the Deptford trilogy
will surprise but likely not disappoint his fans."--Publishers Weekly
