The Lane That Had No Turning

Gilbert Parker, a Canadian novelist, is the author of "The Lane That Had No Turning." It takes place in the made-up town of Pontiac, which is modeled around Parker's own Perth, Ontario. Louis Racine, a former soldier who has acquired the title of seigneur of Pontiac, is the main character of the book. Madelinette, the former seigneur's daughter, captures Louis's heart. They are married, but rumors about a lost will that would deprive Louis of his fortune put their happiness in jeopardy. Tardiff, a former seigneur's servant, causes difficulty by asserting that the will is still there and will be located. Louis gets hurt in the ensuing struggle and has a hunchback as a result. When Madelinette, an opera singer, returns to Pontiac, she discovers her unhappy and scarred husband. She makes the decision to leave her job and stick at Louis' side. But when Madelinette finds the missing will, she is caught up in a scheme with Tardiff, the person who stole the papers, and George Fournel, the rightful heir to the land. Louis murders Tardiff and then commits himself to avoid the repercussions, which leads to tragedy. With George Fournel, who eventually ascends to the position of seigneur of Pontiac, Madelinette finds love and happiness. The story takes place during the 19th century in a tiny Canadian community and covers themes of love, sacrifice, betrayal, and redemption.