45th Parallel

The novel The 45th Parallel is a sweeping narrative of family, memory, regret, end of life, and scientific risk set in Maine and upper Michigan.

The novel The 45th Parallel blends historical intrigue, scientific ambition, and intergenerational legacy into a sweeping narrative set against the backdrop of Maine's western lakes, cultural institutions, and upper Michigan. At its core is Clarice Vishnekova, a woman with a shadowy past in World War II intelligence who now oversees visionary projects ranging from acoustic research to climate engineering and life-extension technology. Surrounding her are a cast of family, proteges, and associates, many from Michigan - Rachel, her ambitious grandniece; Taggert McQuimby, a scientist with bold experiments to stabilize global systems; Scott Cadence, a physics-gifted, socially impaired and disgraced former high school teacher; and Fabiana Morales, a Central American colleague drawn into Clarice's world of secrets and innovation. Through their intergenerational efforts, the story explores themes of memory, legacy, scientific risk, and the desire to leave an indelible mark on history, all the while hinting at the personal cost of such grand pursuits.

A compelling end-of-life story of a remarkable woman not ready to leave it.