Review of Mojave Crossing (The Sacketts, #9) by Louis L’Amour
As someone who has often been captivated by the rugged landscapes and adventurous spirits woven into Louis L’Amour’s tales, I felt drawn to Mojave Crossing. It’s no secret that L’Amour has a certain predictability in his storytelling, a reliability that lets you settle in comfortably, knowing you’ll encounter thrilling escapades. But, I must confess, even with his tried-and-true formula, I found elements in this installment that took me by surprise and left me pondering the author’s intent.
Set against the stark beauty of the Mojave Desert, the narrative follows William Tell Sackett, whose journey begins with the enticing promise of love and adventure. I initially expected him to pick up right where the last book left off, embracing a future with Ange Kelly. Instead, Tell quickly crosses paths with Dorinda Robiseau, a femme fatale whose motivations murmur with intrigue. It was refreshing to see L’Amour introduce a bit of a twist in the character dynamics, especially since I often find myself anticipating familiar outcomes.
The development of a love triangle with Ange and Dorinda added a layer I didn’t expect. L’Amour’s writing dances between suspense and lightheartedness, even when embroiled in the chaos of potential betrayal. With Dorinda aiming a gun to extract the whereabouts of Old Ben’s gold, you can almost hear the pulse of the desert mirroring the tension between the characters. It’s moments like these that remind me of the author’s skill in immersing readers in a visceral, heart-pounding experience.
However, as I turned page after page, I found myself at a crossroads of delight and disappointment. While the action scenes breathed excitement, the abrupt ending left me hanging in mid-air. After all the build-up and strategic maneuvers, I yearned for a more satisfying resolution, especially regarding Tell’s rendezvous with Ange in Prescott. Was L’Amour intentionally keeping us on our toes, challenging us to accept the unknown in the conclusion of a gripping journey? Perhaps. It strains against reader expectations, allowing for an open-ended experience — one that arguably breeds discussion.
Despite these frustrations, the pacing was masterful. L’Amour knows how to maintain a steady rhythm that never feels rushed or drawn-out. I found myself cheering for Tell as he navigated challenges and weighed new allegiances. Even if the plot veered into the realm of the improbable — a common thread in L’Amour’s work — I found myself captivated by the vibrant storytelling and delightful escapism it provided.
In reflecting on Mojave Crossing, I’m reminded why L’Amour’s novels have such enduring appeal. For those who appreciate Westerns filled with action, intrigue, and a sprinkle of romance, this book will resonate. Fans of L’Amour, both new and old, will surely find joy in this unexpected journey through the Desert. While it left me wanting more closure, I ultimately had fun navigating its twists and turns.
For those ready to saddle up for a ride through the dusty trails of the American West, give Mojave Crossing a chance — it might just surprise you in ways you hadn’t anticipated. Happy reading!
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