The Falls A Novel

The Falls A Novel by Joyce Carol Oates, published by HarperCollins on August 2, 2005, is a reprint edition comprising 512 pages. Set in 1950, the story begins with Ariah Erskine, whose honeymoon takes a tragic turn when her husband plunges into the waters of Niagara Falls. As she endures a seven-day vigil for his body, she finds unexpected companionship in Dirk Burnaby, a confirmed bachelor. Their ensuing love affair leads to marriage and the appearance of a seemingly perfect life, but underlying tensions soon unravel their happiness.
Readers will encounter a complex narrative that delves into themes of love, tragedy, and the darker aspects of family life. The novel explores how trust and greed can poison relationships, set against the iconic backdrop of Niagara Falls. This edition also includes an additional 16 pages featuring insights into the book, author interviews, and recommended reading, enriching the reader’s experience.
Official synopsis Publisher
It is 1950 and, after a disastrous honeymoon night, Ariah Erskine’s young husband throws himself into the roaring waters of Niagara Falls. Ariah, “the Widow Bride of the Falls,” begins a relentless seven-day vigil in the mist, waiting for his body to be found. At her side is confirmed bachelor and pillar of the community Dirk Burnaby, who is unexpectedly drawn to her. What follows is a passionate love affair, marriage, and family — a seemingly perfect existence. But tragedy soon takes over their lives, poisoning their halcyon years with distrust, greed, and murder.
Set against the mythic-historic backdrop of Niagara Falls in the mid-twentieth century, this haunting exploration of the American family in crisis is a stunning achievement from “one of the great artistic forces of our time” (The Nation).
This P.S. edition features an extra 16 pages of insights into the book, including author interviews, recommended reading, and more.
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