THE WIDE HOUSE

This stands apart from Taylor Caldwell's Dynasty of Death saga -- with only passing mention of the ouchards. But like the earlier novels, it is packed with incident, detailed development of situations and background, and a full cast of characters, intimately limned. It is for that audience to whom such detailed stories have infinite appeal that The Wide House will recommend itself as a ""good long read"". The central figures are Jani, widow with young family, definitely on the make when she comes to America -- northern New York -- is the '50's, and sets her cap for a glamorous cousin, partner in a thriving store; Stuart Coleman, the cousin, who determines not to fall into her sons and daughters, with their queer interrelations, and their unhealthy response to their mother's influence. And -- the two most likable figures, -- a fine old priest and Stuart's Jewish partner, on both of whom the rapidly increasing anti-Catholic and anti-Semitic waves fall. Good reading for her market.