The Lane that had no Turning, Volume 3

The Lane that had no Turning, Volume 3

The narrative follows Annette, a young woman eagerly awaiting the return of Benoit, a charming river driver who promised to marry her. As time passes without his arrival, Annette's family pressures her to accept a marriage proposal from Farette, an old miller. Despite her family's disdain for Benoit, Annette remains steadfast in her love, even as they attempt to force her into a union with Farette. In a moment of defiance, she sells the wedding preparations she had made for Benoit, asserting her independence. Throughout the harsh winter, Annette endures solitude and hardship, fishing daily to save money for her future. A significant moment occurs when she loses the ring Benoit gave her, symbolizing her hope. However, the ring is recovered, restoring her spirits. After seven years of waiting, Benoit returns, but he is now a cripple, and the reunion brings unexpected complications. Annette's unwavering faith in Benoit leads her into a tragic realization, marking the transition from her hopeful anticipation to a profound disappointment. The story explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the harsh realities of life, ultimately revealing the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of misplaced trust.

By Gilbert Parker · First published 1900 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance, Drama · 8 chapters · 21,708 words

First lines

The chest of drawers, the bed, the bedding, the pieces of linen, and the pile of yarn had been ready for many months. Annette had made inventory of them every day since the dot was complete -- at first with a great deal of pride, after a time more shyly and wistfully: Benoit did not come. He had said he would be down with the first drive of logs in the summer, and at the little church of St. Saviour's they would settle everything and get the Cure's blessing. Almost anybody would have believed in Benoit. He had the brightest scarf, the merriest laugh, the quickest eyes, and the blackest head in Pontiac; and no one among the river drivers could sing like him. That was, he said gaily, because his earrings were gold, and not brass like those of his comrades. Thus Benoit was a little vain, and something more; but old ladies such as the Little Chemist's wife said he was galant.

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The Lane that had no Turning, Volume 3 is listed on Textopian as a novel by Gilbert Parker, dated 1900 CE.

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fiction · literature · novel · historical · drama · romance · adventure · character-driven · narrative · 20th century · Canadian literature · social issues

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