Maddie Ingram, owner of Madison House, and her quirky and endearing boarders find their lives inextricably linked when the city decides to re-grade Denny hill, and the fate of Madison House hangs in the balance. No novel extant is nearly as thorough in its presentation of the early city, and all future attempts in its historical vein will be made in light of this book.'-David Guterson, author of 'Snow Falling on Cedars and 'Our Lady of the Forest Peter Donahue's debut novel, 'Madison House, chronicles turn-of-the-century Seattle's explosive transformation from frontier outpost to major metropolis. ELLIOTT BAY BOOK COMPANYĭONAHUE'S AFFECTING LITERARY narrative successfully incorporates social, political, and cultural history as seen through the eyes of the dispossessed, disadvantaged, and disenfranchised in a pivotal time in Seattle's history.'Peter Donahue seems to have a map of old Seattle in his head. THE HISTORICAL NOVELS REVIEWĪ RICHLY ATMOSPHERIC debut novel. Peter Donahue has penned a memorable chronicle of life in the Pacific Northwest one hundred years ago. The characters are unique and believable. The author's research shows, but does not intrude. MADISON HOUSE IS REMINISCENT OF THE TOMES OF THE 19TH CENTURY - filled with descriptive passages and forays into the lives of various characters, telling, ultimately, the tale of Seattle's emergence as a city during the first decade of the 20th century. Donahue's story is a paean to a significant part of the city's history. Those interested in the history of the Northwest will find much to savor here.

THE HISTORICAL DETAIL IS COMPELLING and effectively interlaced with the action. PETER DONAHUE CRAFTS A RESPLENDENT NOVEL examining life in Seattle in the early 20th century, complete with a Dickensian cast of unforgettable characters a handsome edition from a rising literary house in Portland. SENA JETER NASLUND, author of Four Spirits and Ahab's Wife I loved reading this novel and sharing in the pleasures and labors of the diverse and authentic inhabitants of a remarkable city.

Every page reflects Peter Donahue's meticulous and imaginative recreation of a lively and engaging moment in American history. MADISON HOUSE TREATS READERS to a boarding house full of fascinating and lovable characters as they create their own identities and contribute to early 20th century life in Seattle. DAVID GUTERSON, author of Snow Falling on Cedars and Our Lady of the Forest No novel extant is nearly as thorough in its presentation of the early city, and all future attempts in its historical vein will be made in light of this book.

PETER DONAHUE SEEMS TO HAVE A MAP of old Seattle in his head.

Madison House by Peter Donahue