Book Review: Hell's Gate

Reviewed By: Harriet Klausner

Hell's Gate     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Susan Lancaster
Class/Genre:   Fiction   Fantasy   Young Adult   Time Travel
Snosrap Publishing, 2003, $12.95, 180 pp.

The visiting Canadian teacher provides an interesting lesson on the diverse culture of British Columbia. Afterward, best friends Kate Foster and Amanda Thompson debate the reaction of the Indians to the intrusion of Anglos along the River Fraser. Amanda feels empathy with the beleaguered natives while Kate insists their reactions were irrational. Kate’s bias disturbs her guardian angel Oscar the ostrich, but even more the In-Between Forces who decide she needs a lesson. They dispatch Kate, Amanda and Oscar back to 1858 New Caledonia (presently British Columbia).

The two female teens receive help from kind locals and soon Kate’s brother James, who is also Amanda’s boyfriend, joins the girls. When they overhear a plot to attack the locals in order to steal gold, but place the blame on the Indians, they become involved. The trio meets Simon, the son of the Knife Band tribe chief and together the foursome tries to thwart an odious scheme that will harm many innocents even as Simon and Kate are attracted to one.

Though targeting a young audience, adults and teens will enjoy this entertaining time travel tale that vividly focuses on mid nineteenth century British Columbia. The cast is wonderful especially the four heroes, Oscar and a couple of his colleagues. The story line is at its best when the young ladies venture around New Caledonia as the audience receives an exciting insightful look into the era. Occasional historical and preaching lectures slow down the tale, but fans will still value this delightful morality historical tale that cherishes diversity while seeking out other adventures of the trio (see THE DIAMOND TALISMAN).

Harriet Klausner

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Harriet Klausner