Avalanche by Gertrude Atherton is a gripping and emotionally charged novel that delves into the complexities of love, betrayal, and redemption. The story follows the lives of a young woman named Elsie and her husband, Howard, as they navigate the treacherous terrain of their tumultuous relationship.

The author's vivid descriptions bring the icy landscape of the Sierra Nevada mountains to life, creating a sense of foreboding and danger that mirrors the emotional turmoil of the characters. As Elsie grapples with her feelings for both her husband and a mysterious stranger, the tension builds to a heart-pounding climax that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.

Atherton's prose is elegant and evocative, capturing the raw emotions of her characters with a keen eye for detail. The themes of love, sacrifice, and forgiveness are skillfully woven throughout the narrative, adding depth and complexity to the story.

Overall, Avalanche is a riveting tale of love and redemption that will resonate with readers long after they have turned the final page. Atherton's masterful storytelling and compelling characters make this novel a must-read for fans of literary fiction.

Book Description:
Price Ruyler has been sent to San Francisco from New York to salvage the family business after the 1906 earthquake. His success makes him one of the city's most eligible bachelors but he resists the machinations of the local girls (and their mothers). Then he meets the beautiful and captivating Helene. He proposes within a week. Into the fourth year of their marriage, he realizes something has changed. He still loves his wife and he believes she loves him but he begins to wonder about her mysterious past and questions whether family secrets were buried in the rubble left by the earthquake.