Tom Thomson, one of the painters belonging to the Canadian Group of Seven, disappeared on Canoe Lake in 1917. His death was confirmed eight days later when his body was recovered. Did he commit suicide or was there foul play at work? Was he murdered by someone who owed him money, by a pregnant girlfriend or was it just an accident? His death on Canoe Lake leaves us with many questions.

EDITORIAL REVIEW by Victoria Chatham

The Tom Thomson Mystery (Canadian Historical Mysteries) by Nancy M. Bell

Thomas Thomson was a Canadian artist best known for his landscapes. He spent his summers capturing the scenery in Algonquin Park, Central Ontario, first in oil sketches on small wooden panels and then producing larger works on canvas during the winter in Toronto. His best-known piece of work is The Jack Pine. What isn't so well known is how Tom died. On July 8th, 1917, Tom's body was found in Canoe Lake. Was he murdered? Did he commit suicide? Or was his death accidental? Nobody knows.

Nancy M. Bell has skillfully woven the threads of fact and fiction in her rendition of what might have happened. Her protagonist is young Harriet St. George, a very modern-minded young lady who loves escaping her strict family, particularly her stern father. She also summers at Mowat Lodge on Canoe Lake in the Park. She loves to tramp through the woods, canoe, fish, and paint to her heart's content. Her friend Winnie Trainor, also a summer visitor, is sweet on Tom, while Harriet appreciates his skill as an artist and does her best to emulate him. But then Tom is missing.

Harriet suspects the Lodge managers, Shannon and Annie Fraser, of being involved in illegal activities. Who should she turn to for help? Besides Winne, the Park Ranger, Mark Robinson, is the only person she can share her suspicions with. All the characters are clearly introduced and have their place in the story of the search for Tom. The ending is unexpected and dramatic, and some readers may not see it coming, but it is an entirely satisfying conclusion to a true Canadian mystery.

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