Harvesting Ice

Finally, a book that exposes love for what it truly is--wonderful and torturous at the same time. For anyone who ever questioned the existence of true love, ever wondered what happens when perfect endings aren't possible, this is the book to read. Taking place in the 20's, its the Great Gatsby of New Jersey...that those of us who aren't millionaire flappers can identify with. Realistic characters and well researched settings make it even easier for the reader to feel like part of the story...I'd recommend it to anyone who is sick of red-rose-mushy-kiss love stories and wants to read something true to life.

There's a Matt Groening cartoon where a teacher asks a student what love is. The student thinks about this for awhile showing faces of anger, jealousy, anguish, and heartbreak. He then responds "love is happiness". Harvesting Ice is a story of the pound of burden and angst for each ounce of joy. The budding of the relationships the main character Mark has with the other two main characters Emily and Kristen develope at a pace made believable, with nothing too abrupt or too slow. The descriptions of the ice harvests are a fascinating lot because it is a little known aspect of the early 20th century. The backdrop of 1920s Barryville, NY provides a plethora of diverse characters, most all too recognizable.All in all, the story is well thought out and beautifully crafted. Not once did I find myself bored or wanting to take a break from it.

The author is a fine storyteller who brings to life a multilayered tale of friendship, love, betrayal and loss in the years leading to the Great Depression. The novel begins on a somber note, which would normally set the tone for the entire book, but Cirelli lightens the mood within a short time. The introduction to the Ink Widow is laugh out loud hilarity, and the scenes of love are so clearly drawn they warm the reader's heart as the sun warms the lovers' skin. I've read the book several times and it is now the mainstay of my gift-giving. Looking forward to reading more of Mr. Cirelli's work.

This book would make a great movie! It is not only well-written, but startlingly visual and true to its historical context. The story builds gradually to an intense emotional pitch that leaves you wanting more. It's a classic story well-told.

I really enjoyed Mr. Cirelli's work. I passed the book to my mother who read it in one day and has passed it along to one of her office-mates. The story is easy to follow and mesmerizing.