Scan barcode
A review by the_pale_woman
Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0
I loved this read.
I must admit, I was initially skeptical. I had tried reading another western a few months ago, but it did not resonate with me, so I was concerned that this might be similar. Additionally, the audiobook recording seemed to be quite old, and the narrator had some difficulty maintaining a consistent rhythm and cadence at the beginning. This, combined with the slow pacing of the plot setup, made it a bit challenging to get into the story. However, I persevered, and I'm glad I did, as this turned out to be one of my favorite reads of the year.
The characters are what truly captivated me in this book. While the plot and objectives were interesting, they were secondary to the character development for me. Initially, I thought I would dislike Gus, but he evolved into one of those unforgettable characters who will always hold a special place in my literary canon. Call, Newt, Lorena, Jake Spoon, Deets, July Johnson, Roscoe, Clara, Capt. Walker, and indeed all of the characters, have secured a permanent and rent-free residence in my mind. In a story like this, the inevitability of death is understood, yet I found myself genuinely shocked each time it occurred, as if it were unexpected. By the end, I was emotionally wrecked and thoroughly enjoying every moment.
I intend to read the sequels, but I doubt anything can surpass this exceptional book.
I must admit, I was initially skeptical. I had tried reading another western a few months ago, but it did not resonate with me, so I was concerned that this might be similar. Additionally, the audiobook recording seemed to be quite old, and the narrator had some difficulty maintaining a consistent rhythm and cadence at the beginning. This, combined with the slow pacing of the plot setup, made it a bit challenging to get into the story. However, I persevered, and I'm glad I did, as this turned out to be one of my favorite reads of the year.
The characters are what truly captivated me in this book. While the plot and objectives were interesting, they were secondary to the character development for me. Initially, I thought I would dislike Gus, but he evolved into one of those unforgettable characters who will always hold a special place in my literary canon. Call, Newt, Lorena, Jake Spoon, Deets, July Johnson, Roscoe, Clara, Capt. Walker, and indeed all of the characters, have secured a permanent and rent-free residence in my mind. In a story like this, the inevitability of death is understood, yet I found myself genuinely shocked each time it occurred, as if it were unexpected. By the end, I was emotionally wrecked and thoroughly enjoying every moment.
I intend to read the sequels, but I doubt anything can surpass this exceptional book.