HIstorical fiction...interest to those seeking a strong women theme. Some small town prejudices in the 1930 timeframe. The Massachusetts Water Authority needs to create a reservoir for electrical plant to furnish Boston with power. Cascade has a larger population which would displace the entire town. The alternative is less inhabited, but less desirable as a viable choice. The struggle to save Cascade is at the center of this plot. Desdemona Hart Spaulding makes a promise to her dying father to protect his lifework and the theater he founded. Unfortunately, her father has deeded the property to her less than desirable husband Asa Spaulding. With an obligation to her dad who is virtually broke, she agrees to marry Asa. When a stranger shows up in town, who shares her love of art, her future and the future of Cascade are in a tenuous place. Intrigue, romance, strong woman heroine and destiny all make this a stirring novel to take to the beach this summer.