The Flood Line

The story follows Daniel Mercer and his family as a severe flood overtakes Hoosac Valley, exposing both public infrastructure failures and private family fractures. Daniel, recently laid off from the local museum but hiding the truth from his wife Mari, tries to keep control through practical fixes and emergency problem-solving. As roads wash out, the school becomes a makeshift shelter under Mari's leadership, while the family confronts dangerous travel, medical emergencies, a failing generator, possible carbon monoxide exposure, and a missing municipal fuel tanker that may have been diverted to Gideon Voss's property. At its heart, the book is about what communities and families preserve under pressure: records, trust, lives, truth, and responsibility. The flood forces each character to face the limits of control. Daniel must learn that being useful is not the same as being honest or trustworthy. Mari must balance public duty with betrayal and fear at home. Their children-especially Ruby and Owen-become crucial witnesses and participants, showing how truth, evidence, and courage can come from unexpected places.