In Jack Hodgins latest novel, Broken Ground, the inhabitants of the small forest community of Portuguese Creek are deeply affected by its extreme conditions. Matthew Pearson, a local farmer and former soldier, has his life utterly transformed from living in Portuguese Creek. For Tanner Pearson, Matthew's ten year old son, living in Portuguese Creek has nothing but negative consequences. Lastly, Charlie MacKintosh, Tanner's friend, is adversely affected by his time spent in the harsh wilderness of the settlement. Portuguese Creek touches the lives of all who dwell within its untamed heart. Matthew Pearson is a typical farmer in the wild soldier's settlement of Portug