Hell's Gate

Rating:
Summary: Fantasy River Adventure
Review: "Kate and Amanda scrambled over the bank guarding the little stream at the bottom of Kate's garden when Amanda suddenly stood still, a chill running down her spine as she stared at the water. It was not a stream, but a mighty river, with a boiling and bubbling turmoil of swollen waters. The hill behind them that was part of the Hawthornes garden was now a towering mountain and no matter where they turned, they were surrounded by huge peaks spiking into the sunny mist above them." ~Susan Lancaster

The story of Kate and Amanda is instantly compelling. Susan Lancaster's writing style allows her to paint stunning and unforgettable images with words.

In the tradition of Mildred Wirt Benson, Susan Lancaster has been creating a mystery series for young adults. She transcends her role as a fantasy writer and weaves the magic of beautiful life lessons and fascinating history into the excitement of a fantasy adventure.

"Hell's Gate" is the third story in a new adventure series, although it can be read alone without knowledge of any of the previous stories.

Instead of journeying to the underworld (as the title might imply), Kate and Amanda journey into an unpredictable world where they must conquer their fears. The setting in "Hell's Gate" is the "Fraser River." This Canadian river is considered to be one of the world's greatest salmon resources. Some of the salmon migrating upriver, swim as far as 1000 miles from the ocean to gravel beds to complete their life cycle.

When Kate and Amanda first read about the "river of death," they have no idea they may be fighting for their own lives or even saving the lives of others. They are also amazed by the natural wonder of the salmon being able to swim up this wild river. The Hell's Gate "fishways" now allow migrating salmon an upstream passage.

They have yet to learn about the desecration of spawning grounds and the plundering of tribal lands. It is 2003, and when Kate makes assumptions about the past, she is transported back in time, at the whim of the "In Between" forces. Fortunately, Amanda comes along for the ride.

Kate and Amanda are living ordinary lives in 2003, yet are transported into another time, not unlike the way C.S. Lewis transported his characters into Narnia. Although in this story, the river is the doorway to the past. In both worlds, animals speak telepathically and Kate has her very own emissary ostrich. Jenza, the Siberian tiger also makes an appearance.

Susan Lancaster has a wonderful way of fully developing her characters before proceeding on to the next introduction. She has filled "Hell's Gate" with convincing descriptions of Yale in 1858. She shows how Kate and Amanda must use their problem-solving skills and brave the river. "Hell's Gate" is an exciting adventure story that keeps your attention right to the last page.

Susan Lancaster's experience as a management consultant gave her the opportunity to write and later she was a member of a research team in British Columbia. She has also worked in the United Kingdom. Once she discovered her love of writing, she created three books in short order.

The Diamond Talisman (March 2003) - An innocent trip to the zoo changes Kate's life. This story explains how Kate met Oscar, Isia (an eagle) and Jenza. What is the mystery and intrigue surrounding the Mirendah Diamond?

The Caves and the Skull (July 2003) - Kate, Amanda and James are looking forward to a perfect holiday on Grand Bahama Island. They soon find themselves in a new adventure that involves the masters of the underworld. As disaster looms, can Amanda and Kate uncover the dangerous operation on Doge Island?

Hell's Gate (August 2003)

I look forward to following the series and finding out what Kate, Amanda and their animal friends discover next!

Also by Susan Lancaster:

The Frog Snogger's Guide

~TheRebeccaReview.com

Rating:
Summary: Fantasy River Adventure
Review: "Kate and Amanda scrambled over the bank guarding the little stream at the bottom of Kate's garden when Amanda suddenly stood still, a chill running down her spine as she stared at the water. It was not a stream, but a mighty river, with a boiling and bubbling turmoil of swollen waters. The hill behind them that was part of the Hawthornes garden was now a towering mountain and no matter where they turned, they were surrounded by huge peaks spiking into the sunny mist above them." ~Susan Lancaster

The story of Kate and Amanda is instantly compelling. Susan Lancaster's writing style allows her to paint stunning and unforgettable images with words.

In the tradition of Mildred Wirt Benson, Susan Lancaster has been creating a mystery series for young adults. She transcends her role as a fantasy writer and weaves the magic of beautiful life lessons and fascinating history into the excitement of a fantasy adventure.

"Hell's Gate" is the third story in a new adventure series, although it can be read alone without knowledge of any of the previous stories.

Instead of journeying to the underworld (as the title might imply), Kate and Amanda journey into an unpredictable world where they must conquer their fears. The setting in "Hell's Gate" is the "Fraser River." This Canadian river is considered to be one of the world's greatest salmon resources. Some of the salmon migrating upriver, swim as far as 1000 miles from the ocean to gravel beds to complete their life cycle.

When Kate and Amanda first read about the "river of death," they have no idea they may be fighting for their own lives or even saving the lives of others. They are also amazed by the natural wonder of the salmon being able to swim up this wild river. The Hell's Gate "fishways" now allow migrating salmon an upstream passage.

They have yet to learn about the desecration of spawning grounds and the plundering of tribal lands. It is 2003, and when Kate makes assumptions about the past, she is transported back in time, at the whim of the "In Between" forces. Fortunately, Amanda comes along for the ride.

Kate and Amanda are living ordinary lives in 2003, yet are transported into another time, not unlike the way C.S. Lewis transported his characters into Narnia. Although in this story, the river is the doorway to the past. In both worlds, animals speak telepathically and Kate has her very own emissary ostrich. Jenza, the Siberian tiger also makes an appearance.

Susan Lancaster has a wonderful way of fully developing her characters before proceeding on to the next introduction. She has filled "Hell's Gate" with convincing descriptions of Yale in 1858. She shows how Kate and Amanda must use their problem-solving skills and brave the river. "Hell's Gate" is an exciting adventure story that keeps your attention right to the last page.

Susan Lancaster's experience as a management consultant gave her the opportunity to write and later she was a member of a research team in British Columbia. She has also worked in the United Kingdom. Once she discovered her love of writing, she created three books in short order.

The Diamond Talisman (March 2003) - An innocent trip to the zoo changes Kate's life. This story explains how Kate met Oscar, Isia (an eagle) and Jenza. What is the mystery and intrigue surrounding the Mirendah Diamond?

The Caves and the Skull (July 2003) - Kate, Amanda and James are looking forward to a perfect holiday on Grand Bahama Island. They soon find themselves in a new adventure that involves the masters of the underworld. As disaster looms, can Amanda and Kate uncover the dangerous operation on Doge Island?

Hell's Gate (August 2003)

I look forward to following the series and finding out what Kate, Amanda and their animal friends discover next!

Also by Susan Lancaster:

The Frog Snogger's Guide

~TheRebeccaReview.com

Rating:
Summary: Fantasy Adventure and Romance in an Authentic Yukon Setting
Review: Hell's Gate will most appeal to those who have read The Diamond Talisman and The Caves and the Skull, which precede this book in the same series. Those who read Hell's Gate as a stand-alone will probably rate it at three stars. The book is most appropriate for 10-14 year-olds, and will probably be preferred more by girls than boys. Parents of children will be delighted by the many ethical underpinnings in the story. Readers who like a touch of historical reality will enjoy the Yukon gold rush backdrop.

Ms. Lancaster has three great strengths as a writer. First, she does her homework and provides a learning opportunity for anyone fortunate enough to read about the historical backdrop of her work. Second, she is concerned about conveying an ethical message of how we should relate to others. Third, she has a talent for developing characters in a short amount of time so that the reader cares about them. Her main weakness is that her plot line depends so much on references to past supernatural relationships that the story is bogged down in initial explanations.

The book's opening reminded me of Alice in Wonderland. Kate and her friend, Amanda, have just heard a presentation in school on the gold rush in the Fraser Canyon of British Columbia. Kate finds herself unsympathetic with the "Indians" of the time for being foolish enough to trade for "rotgut" whiskey. Thinking about what they had just learned while dangling their hands in the water behind Kate's home, they suddenly find themselves transported back to the Fraser Canyon in 1858. "In Between" forces have intervened to teach Kate a lesson that she will never forget.

Once in Yale, New Caledonia (the original name for British Columbia), the young women have to adapt . . . and have more than a few frights along the way. Fortunately, Kate has her Emissary from God, Oscar the ostrich, to help look out for her. When needed, Isia the eagle and Jenza the Siberian tiger are there to protect Kate and Amanda. Soon, Oscar intervenes to bring Kate's brother James to help them as well.

Before long, the three young people become aware of a plot to murder many miners and "Indians" to steal valuable mining claims. Dedicated to doing the right thing, the youngsters find allies and set off into the wilderness to warn the "Indians." From that point on, the story moves quickly and interestingly towards unexpected conclusions.

As I read the story, I was charmed by the use of many mid-nineteenth century words in the dialogue that gave the book a more authentic feel.

Hell's Gate, by the way, is an actual place in the Fraser Canyon where the river's width narrows to 110 feet and causes the water to rush by.

As I finished the story, I was reminded of the many times when it has seemed like the hand of Providence has played a role in events I have witnessed. Perhaps the hand is there more often than we think . . . if only we look for it.

Rating:
Summary: Fantasy Adventure and Romance in an Authentic Yukon Setting
Review: Hell's Gate will most appeal to those who have read The Diamond Talisman and The Caves and the Skull, which precede this book in the same series. Those who read Hell's Gate as a stand-alone will probably rate it at three stars. The book is most appropriate for 10-14 year-olds, and will probably be preferred more by girls than boys. Parents of children will be delighted by the many ethical underpinnings in the story. Readers who like a touch of historical reality will enjoy the Yukon gold rush backdrop.

Ms. Lancaster has three great strengths as a writer. First, she does her homework and provides a learning opportunity for anyone fortunate enough to read about the historical backdrop of her work. Second, she is concerned about conveying an ethical message of how we should relate to others. Third, she has a talent for developing characters in a short amount of time so that the reader cares about them. Her main weakness is that her plot line depends so much on references to past supernatural relationships that the story is bogged down in initial explanations.

The book's opening reminded me of Alice in Wonderland. Kate and her friend, Amanda, have just heard a presentation in school on the gold rush in the Fraser Canyon of British Columbia. Kate finds herself unsympathetic with the "Indians" of the time for being foolish enough to trade for "rotgut" whiskey. Thinking about what they had just learned while dangling their hands in the water behind Kate's home, they suddenly find themselves transported back to the Fraser Canyon in 1858. "In Between" forces have intervened to teach Kate a lesson that she will never forget.

Once in Yale, New Caledonia (the original name for British Columbia), the young women have to adapt . . . and have more than a few frights along the way. Fortunately, Kate has her Emissary from God, Oscar the ostrich, to help look out for her. When needed, Isia the eagle and Jenza the Siberian tiger are there to protect Kate and Amanda. Soon, Oscar intervenes to bring Kate's brother James to help them as well.

Before long, the three young people become aware of a plot to murder many miners and "Indians" to steal valuable mining claims. Dedicated to doing the right thing, the youngsters find allies and set off into the wilderness to warn the "Indians." From that point on, the story moves quickly and interestingly towards unexpected conclusions.

As I read the story, I was charmed by the use of many mid-nineteenth century words in the dialogue that gave the book a more authentic feel.

Hell's Gate, by the way, is an actual place in the Fraser Canyon where the river's width narrows to 110 feet and causes the water to rush by.

As I finished the story, I was reminded of the many times when it has seemed like the hand of Providence has played a role in events I have witnessed. Perhaps the hand is there more often than we think . . . if only we look for it.

Rating:
Summary: Solid time travel historical tale
Review: 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

Rating:
Summary: Solid time travel historical tale
Review: 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