Rose & Poe

September 1, 2017

Todd's innovative novel (after Rain Falls Like Mercy) is loosely based on Shakespeare's The Tempest but can be appreciated by those unfamiliar with the play. Instead of a magical island, the story takes place in isolated Belle Coeur Valley. Prospero Thorne has been forced from his law practice by partner Anthony Coyle; his daughter, Miranda, attends Harvard Law School but returns during breaks to the valley people she's loved and known since childhood. Such a friend is Poe Didelot. This giant, simple man lives with his protective mother, Rose, tends his small herd of goats, and meticulously builds a magnificent stone wall for Thorne. Enter Sebastian Coyle, the son of Thorne's former partner, who befriends Miranda. She foolishly thinks they can bring the families together. Instead, Sebastian assaults her, leaving the country to avoid justice, and Sheriff Dunn reluctantly arrests Poe because he was found at the scene. After the trial verdict, a fierce rainstorm floods the area, which Thorne is convinced he has caused. VERDICT Todd offers fascinating embellishments to Shakespeare's story, and as elements of magic filter through this modern retelling, his own plans for his characters shine through. Ultimately upbeat, this story stands on its own and is splendid from start to finish.--Donna Bettencourt, Mesa Cty. P.L., Grand Junction, CO

Copyright 2017 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.