Come to the Window: A Novel BY Howard Norman

"Come to the Window" transports readers to the tumultuous year of 1918 in Parrsboro, Nova Scotia, where the echoes of World War I reverberate alongside the deadly grip of the Spanish flu. Amidst this backdrop of global turmoil, a gripping drama unfolds in the small fishing village following a shocking crime.

Elizabeth Frame commits a murder just hours after her wedding, a desperate act that sets off a chain of events captured by crime reporter Toby Havenshaw of the Halifax Evening Mail. Toby's diary chronicles Elizabeth's flight from justice, accompanied by a smitten court stenographer, revealing unexpected twists and turns in her journey.

Embedded within Toby's narrative is a poignant depiction of his own life, particularly his marriage to Amelia, a surgeon recently returned from the horrors of the Western Front. As events unfold, Amelia finds herself drawn into the unfolding drama, her involvement altering the course of lives in ways she never anticipated.

At its heart, "Come to the Window" explores profound themes of love, betrayal, and redemption against a backdrop of societal upheaval and personal turmoil. The novel delves into the complexities of human nature and resilience, posing questions about hope and healing in the face of profound grief and confusion.

Set against the stark beauty of Nova Scotia and woven with historical detail, the novel captures the essence of a community grappling with both personal and collective trauma. It's a story that resonates with universal themes while offering a vivid portrayal of a specific time and place, inviting readers to contemplate the enduring quest for hope amid adversity.