Lost Mountain: A Novel

Lost Mountain is a debut novel by poet and writer Anne Coray that tells the story of love, loss, environment, and politics against a landscape facing destruction. It is a love story between the two main characters, a portrait of a small and isolated community, a mystery, a paean to salmon, and an example of eco-fiction. The novel is inspired by the Pebble Mine project in Alaska and explores the interconnectivity of the natural world woven into the narrative of people's strength and resistance.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2021
Publisher: Graphic Arts Books

Lost Mountain, the captivating debut novel by poet and writer Anne Coray, weaves an impassioned tale that encompasses love, loss, environment, and politics against a backdrop of a landscape facing the imminent threat of destruction. Anne Coray, the author of three acclaimed poetry collections, showcases her remarkable observational and writing skills in this captivating foray into fiction. Lost Mountain is a multifaceted masterpiece that unfolds as a love story between the two central characters, a poignant portrayal of a small and secluded community, a thrilling mystery, a heartfelt ode to salmon and the lives they sustain, a subtle critique of a megamine project, and a testament to eco-fiction—literature that is deeply mindful of the environment.

In the remote Alaskan town of Whetstone Cove, the news of an open-pit mining project sends ripples of anxiety through the community. The Ziggurat corporation, promising the mine to be fifteen times larger than all the mines in Alaska combined, ignites a mixture of excitement and apprehension among the townspeople. However, young widow Dehlia Melven's thoughts are consumed by the profound loss of her late husband and the uncertain future that lies ahead. Amidst the town's nervous chatter, the arrival of solar energy expert Alan Lamb brings a welcome distraction and a fresh dynamic to the small community.

For Alan, Whetstone Cove offers a chance for a fresh start, away from the bureaucratic complexities and political intrigues he had been fleeing. Moreover, he finds himself captivated by the beautiful and enigmatic artist, Dehlia, who gradually occupies more and more of his thoughts. However, as Ziggurat's looming presence looms larger, Alan knows that it is only a matter of time before the corporation exerts its influence over his livelihood and the very essence of the town's way of life. The thought of being connected to or even employed by Ziggurat fills him with a sense of dread, yet leaving would mean losing Dehlia forever.

As the story unfolds, Alan grapples with the moral dilemma of choosing between his principles and his love for Dehlia. He questions the impact of the mining project on the environment and the community, and he wonders if there is any way to resist the forces that threaten to obliterate everything he holds dear. Meanwhile, Dehlia faces her own challenges as she navigates the complexities of her relationship with Alan and the changing dynamics of the town. She struggles with the loss of her husband and the uncertainty of the future, while also grappling with her own artistic aspirations and the pressure to conform to the expectations of the community.

Lost Mountain is a testament to Anne Coray's talent as a writer and her deep connection to the natural world. Through her vivid prose and meticulous attention to detail, Coray creates a vivid and immersive experience that transports readers to the heart of Whetstone Cove. The novel explores themes of love, loss, resilience, and the interconnectedness of human beings and the environment. It serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the fragility of our ecosystems and the importance of preserving them for future generations.

In conclusion, Lost Mountain is a remarkable debut novel that combines poetry, prose, and environmental consciousness into a captivating and thought-provoking narrative. Anne Coray's skill as a writer and her passion for her home place shine through in every page, leaving readers with a profound sense of connection to the characters and the landscape they inhabit. This novel is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of storytelling and the importance of preserving our natural world.

Dimension: 216 x 140 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781513264462