Amy 
historical fiction
Knowing the love that many feel for Lonesome Dove (and its resulting mini-series), I decided to give it a try. I’m glad I did even though it’s not my kind of novel. Its pacing is slow and there is no pressing end-game for the characters. But getting to know all the lovable characters while joining them on their journey from Lonesome Dove, TX to Montana (as well as a couple side stories for characters whose lives become intertwined with the Hat Creek Outfit) made me appreciate the hardships and bravery of the American cowboys of the 1870s. I’ve never been a fan of westerns and hadn’t given much thought to the daily activities of people who were not farmers during that time. I also never thought about the birth of cities and western/northern expansion in much detail. But, this story gave me a new outlook and made me admire the spirit of those who were trying to make this country a more successful and larger place to live.
I also don’t think I’ve ever read a novel where the author gives us this much insight into so many different characters’ heads. At times, I felt like I was in a bubble floating above the characters and I would just drop into someone’s head for a while to learn what they were thinking about and then plop into someone else’s head and then someone else’s until I had the full picture for that scene. It was interesting and, surprisingly, enjoyable. And Larry McMurtry’s writing was very easy to read.
The ending, however, while taking a LONG time to be reached, was dissatisfying since it just ended without any real resolution for anyone. I know there are sequels and prequels but I’m not inclined to make the effort for these characters even though I did love them. As I said, it’s just not my kind of novel.
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