Cannot put it down. The book is filled with action, drama and emotion. The vivid details of the mule towpath drawn barges to the corrupt banker and the struggles of the lockkeeper's wife to Sonja's broken heart just keep the reader spellbound. Every character is rich with detail and they keep coming! Mother Nature is anything but kind to the folks there along the canal. Yet, the beauty of Havre de Grace is quite evident. The book is detailed to the point that you feel like you are actually there, in that time. This is one of a series of books. So much better than any TV show or movie! HIGHLY recommend!!!!!