
In the quiet towns of early twentieth‑century Canada, Charley Steele finds himself caught in a tangled web of rumors, old debts, and a lingering courtroom drama. When a long‑forgotten verdict resurfaces, the community’s sense of right and wrong is tested, and Charley’s own loyalties are pulled in opposite directions. As he navigates the narrow corridors of the local courthouse and the winding backroads that link the residents, he discovers that even the simplest “right of way” can carry a heavy moral weight.
The story unfolds through a lively cast—an enigmatic woman in a heliotrope dress, a determined tailor, and a mysterious stranger whose arrival stirs old grievances. Their intertwined lives bring secrets to light, forcing each character to confront what they are willing to sacrifice for truth or for peace. Parker’s prose captures the rhythm of small‑town life, mixing humor with a keen sense of justice that keeps listeners turning the page.
Language
en
Duration
~11 hours (661K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Produced by David Widger
Release date
2004-11-18
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
Subjects

1862–1932
A Canadian-born novelist who found fame in London, he wrote historical romances packed with drama, politics, and vivid settings. His books, including The Seats of the Mighty and The Weavers, made him a widely read popular author of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
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