Unbelievable

 

The plot of The Black Wolf by Louise Penny describes what was once unthinkable – invasion of Canada by the more powerful, more populated United States as climate change ushers in life-threatening water shortages.  

Survival might depend on sensing such threats are in play, determining when action is required.

“… [I]t was near impossible to believe it could happen. But Armand suspected every country ever invaded had felt the same way. Every group ever targeted, ever rounded up, refused to believe their neighbors could do it. 

“Every people who found themselves under the thumb of a tyrant must wonder where it began, and how they didn’t see it coming. And what moment they missed, when it could have been stopped.” 

The story is unusual for an author so admired by fans of cozy mysteries, and in the acknowledgements, she points out that she began writing the book a year before the start of 2025, and the US president’s chatter about making Canada a 51st state. So instead the book is indeed hauntingly similar to real life as real confrontation emerges between two countries who once enjoyed the world’s closest alliance. 

The unbelievable is now real. 

Warning: Cozy fans are sure to be disappointed. Also, the early pages drag and references to events from previous novels in the series are awkward and distracting. But that should not deter readers from considering this excellent plot.