I purchased this novel 27 years ago. The title caught my eye because I had travelled the Panama Canal years previously and was curious. It remained on my book shelf unread. I decided to bring it with me on my present travels through France. I can’t put it down. Not only is it about the canal, there is also reference to Mont St Michel and Chartres; places I have also visited. I am half way through this fascinating story. It draws the reader in and one can almost smell the atmosphere. It is an absolute joy to read.