This book contains a cast of memorable characters. The writing is consistently beautiful. I need to read more by this author.

"Greenstone was full of people who could make you sad just by strolling into view." The mining town on Lake Superior's shore seemed to have outlived its shelf life, but there were those who continued living there despite decreasing opportunity and prospect. At least that was Virgil's feeling at the outset. Virgil, having just suffered a near death experience behind the wheel, finds his perspective has changed and his senses heightened, almost as if he's a new person. As the story unfolds and the plot expands, he is joined by fellow townsmen and recent arrivals that provide a richness that reminded me of the works of Richard Russo, of Ron Rash. From the Norwegian kite artist who weaves spells with his creations, to the scion of the town's founder who may or may not be the embodiment of evil, and even a murderous sturgeon. The lives of the town embodied by these and others zing off the page. I, for one, had no idea that there is viable surfing on the Minnesota shores of Lake Superior -- and thanks to UTube, was able to see these ice covered daredevils whose waves may not rival those of warmer climates, but whose temperatures add a deeper level of commitment to the sport.

There is some lovely writing here ("...I didn’t have to apply any adjectives to the toast, only plenty of butter.") But I don't want to quote any more since future readers should discover this book for themselves.