It is obvious that the author has done a lot of research into the early history of Ottawa. However, he hasn't been able to use that research in order to tell a story; this book often reads more like a report of his findings. The writing is pedantic. Character development is weak and there is not enough plot to compensate for that.

On the plus side, there were times when the author evoked a real sense of the times, and incidents that were really well told. My favourites being a boxing match to settle a dispute over a lost cat, and the re-connection of two main characters (Jed and Betsy) at the end. ( )