Ladies of the Lake offers a glimpse into the engaging lives of women who are rooted in water. Inspired by King Arthur's Celtic water goddess, Vivienne, and by the modern Lady of the Lake. Anna Mabel Smith Douglass, the author interviewed 23 women along the shores of Placid Lake in upstate New York. Taken as a group, these women represent a cross-section of human nature, each with a different and unique story. What makes these women similar is that all are drawn to the magical power of water and the enduring legacy of life on Placid Lake.
Ladies of the Lake also includes 155 accompanying photographs, many taken by local photographer, Christine Thomsen, of the women at home in their unusual camps and surrounding environments. Ladies like 82-year-old Helen Murray, who converted her camp to a popular club after World War II with zany style and grace; the eccentric yet practical artist Margo Fish, who hand-built the charming and enchanting Tapawingo compound our of intricate twig and stone; and scratch-golfer and financial-expert Sue Riggins, who lost her one true love but managed to hang on to her camp. All are united by the lake's remarkable hold on them. Placid Lake truly is the main character in their lives.