"Women Emerging from Obscurity": females revealing their presence after leaving military service
A Fiery, Unfiltered Look into the Past
Listen up, folks, as we delve into a world of power, intrigue, and gritty realism. The novel "Desertion," penned by the bold Catherine Cote, offers a gripping portrayal of Quebec post-war era.
This novel, a follow-up to her previous works, "Brebeuf" and "Femmes de désordre," spotlights Suzanne Gauthier, a pregnant journalist with a taste for cigarette smoke and liquor, even in her advanced state. Her husband, Leo, a troubled war vet turned private detective, is far from the chivalrous knight of yesteryears. There's also Marcus, a former partner, now divorced and suspended, and Louise, the municipal police secretary, and agent Aline Dubosc, who assert their presence in this male-dominated world. Historical figures make brief, insightful appearances throughout the narrative.
"Desertion" kicks off with a high school student, Rita, the daughter of a wealthy tycoon, being kidnapped. Her mother, recently vanished, casts a long shadow over Rita, often prompting speculation about her desertion – a term coined for fugues during that time. As Suzanne and her associates dig deeper, they uncover a labyrinth of secrets, steering us towards a finale that sends chills down the spine.
Cote masterfully immerses her readers in an authentic depiction of post-war Quebec, backed by extensive research. Her characters, crude, genuine, and hilarious, spice up the narrative with their biting exchanges and effortless switch between French and English. With "Desertion," Cote proves once again that she's not one to shy away from the raw, the real, and the rebellious.
Of Interest
- Cultural Mag: DMag Archive – Explore a wealth of articles, interviews, and reviews in our diverse cultural magazine.
"Desertion" offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of ordinary folks and the impact of power struggles during a critical era. The narrative brims with intrigue, drama, and an irresistible dash of irony. It's a ride that'll leave you wanting more from Cote and her endearing cast of characters.
For Your Consideration
- Behind the Scenes with Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois – A revealing look into the life and career of Quebec Solidaire's former spokesperson.
- "From Rockstar to Killer": The Facets of Cantat's Crime – Anne-Sophie Jahn's insightful deconstruction of Bertrand Cantat's tragic crime.
- "Donald Trump needs water. And he knows it." – Blue gold as a potential future negotiation chip between the U.S. and Canada.
On Screen
- Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois and the Four Strokes of Midnight – A series of close encounters with the former Quebec Solidaire spokesperson.
- Cantat's Crimes: A Media Perspective – A thought-provoking analysis of media coverage surrounding Bertrand Cantat's crime.
- Trump, Water, and the Future – A compelling video discussion about water as a potential diplomatic tool in future U.S.-Canada negotiations.
In the captivating narrative of "Desertion," Catherine Cote successfully integrates the post-war Quebec culture within her story, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in local history. For those who enjoy books that offer a blend of drama, intrigue, and a touch of humor, "Desertion" is a must-read, featuring memorable characters and their spirited interactions.
