Lake in the Clouds by Sara Donati is a historical fiction novel set in late 18th-century New York. It follows the Bonner family as they persevere through personal loss and confront the challenge of their oldest daughter coming of age. Hannah, Nathaniel's half-Indian daughter, finds herself in danger when she insists on nursing a runaway slave. Her determination forces her to make a decision about her identity and future. The novel explores themes of family, love, and identity, all against the backdrop of a developing nation.