Reviews

In Larry McMurtry's classic Western novel, carefree Gus McCrae and duty-driven Captain Woodrow Call, two retired Texas Rangers, embark on one last adventure - a crazy cattle drive from Texas to Montana. Far from the easy paycheck they expected, the journey turns dangerous time and again, weaving a tale that showcases the changing American West.

When I asked my Instagram followers what I should read next, I never expected that almost every single comment would rave about a massive old Western I picked up from the library for my reading challenge. Now I understand why. Though the pace is slow, the writing is excellent, and the great characters really drive the story, making it every bit deserving of its Pulitzer Prize. McMurty paints his characters better than almost any author I've ever read, bringing them to life with incredibly realistic complexity in a story that showcases the Wild West without glorifying it.

deannamullican's review against another edition

Go to review page

adventurous challenging reflective slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This is one of those modern-classic-epic-sagas that people say you should read.

There’s a good story arc and memorable characters. It got a little bogged down in parts. I don’t feel satisfied with the ending even though it was a good ending. I think I wanted it to go in a different direction.

I’m glad I read it. But, I have complicated feelings.

quasidaisy's review against another edition

Go to review page

adventurous emotional reflective sad fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

jericwilkins's review against another edition

Go to review page

adventurous reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

justin_case's review against another edition

Go to review page

adventurous challenging dark emotional inspiring reflective sad tense slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

kodameansfriend's review against another edition

Go to review page

5.0

Fantastic! What a great epic. Fun, lovable characters and dialogue. This will stay with me. Lee Horsely does a fantastic job narrating the audio book, as well. Much enjoyed.

jtferdon's review against another edition

Go to review page

5.0

1985 - Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry

•
I DID IT!! This book has been on my TBR for years. I had heard from so many people that is was great and I should read it... but it is a HUGE book and by the way a western, not usually my go to. And it won the Pulitzer and Pulitzer winners are hit or miss for me.

The book is a saga about a group of retired Texas Rangers and their adventures driving cattle from Texas to Montana. It is set in the late 1800’s.

•
The story is so rich in history and has many characters to love, hate and feel sorry for. I loved Augustus “Gus” and he made me laugh out loud. I also really liked Call and Deets, Roscoe was hilarious, I felt so bad for Lorena, just a great cast of well drawn characters. The tiniest thing bothered me and that is I didn’t feel like Newt got closure in the end.

•
There is a reason this book is a beloved favorite of many and is on the 1000 Books to Read Before You Die list. It is a true American Masterpiece.

5 Stars

More...