Tuesday, September 18, 2012

ABOVE ALL THINGS (TANIS RIDEOUT)

 
 
Story Description: 
 
McClelland & Stewart Inc.|June 19, 2012|Hardcover|ISBN: 978-0-7710-7635-0 
 
The Paris Wife meets Into Thin Air in this breathtaking debut novel of obsession and divided loyalties, which brilliantly weaves together the harrowing story of George Mallory’s ill-fated 1924 attempt to be the first man to conquer Mount Everest, with that of a single day in the life of his wife as she waits at home in England for news of his return. 
 
A captivating blend of historical fact and imaginative fiction, Above All Things moves seamlessly back and forth between the epic story of Mallory’s legendary final expedition and a heartbreaking account of a day in the life of Ruth Mallory.  Through George’s perspective, and that of the newest member of the climbing team, Sandy Irvine, we get an astonishing picture of the terrible risks taken by the men on the treacherous terrain of the Himalaya.  But it is through Ruth’s eyes that a complex portrait of a marriage emerges, one forged on the eve of the First World War, shadowed by its losses, and haunted by the ever-present possibility that George might not come home.  
 
Drawing on years of research, this powerful and beautifully written novel is a timeless story of desire, redemption, and the lengths we are willing to go for honour, glory, and love. 
 
My Review: 
 
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel!  The alternating chapters between different days of George’s legendary climb and only one day in Ruth’s life was a brilliant concept on Ms. Rideout’s part.  The exhilaration, suspense, and gripping writing is amazing.  The vivid descriptions of the bone-chilling cold, the cutting wind, and the glaring ice made you feel as if you were there climbing with the group. 
 
I felt a special affinity for Ruth who waited at home in England to hear word from George, a man she loved very deeply.  Ruth did not want George to go on this expedition but knew deep in her heart that it was something George just had to do.  The call of Everest was just too much for him to resist. 
 
Above All Things would make for an interesting discussion among book club members or just between two friends.  There is so much to review in this phenomenal story.  I’ll be highly recommending it for sure.
 


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