On the First Day of Christmas ...

My true love gave to me, Smoke River by Hamilton's Krista Foss.

Each day between now and Christmas I will highlight gifts that any #HamOnt booklover will like. First up is Smoke River by debut novelist Krista Foss. Pick it up at one of Hamilton's many independent booksellers! Krista is a huge advocate for the arts in Hamilton, and there's no better way to support the arts during the holidays than by supporting a local artist.

This short review originally appeared in Hamilton Magazine (which also makes a great stocking stuffer.)

Smoke River, the debut novel from Hamilton’s Krista Foss, broaches some weighty topics: Aboriginal rights, racism, classism, urbanization. However, it’s the tender relationships forged between impeccably developed characters that make the book unforgettable. Tensions flare when a proposed subdivision threatens the land between a First Nations reserve and a neighbouring town. Through her vivid imagery and the distinct voices of multiple characters, Foss brings readers inside the conflict. Readers can’t help but empathize with the mosaic of complex characters caught in the storm of turbulent times.