Why read The Lonesome Gods?

Book cover of The Lonesome Gods: An Epic Novel of the California Desert

Book description

“I am Johannes Verne, and I am not afraid.”

This was the boy’s mantra as he plodded through the desert alone, left to die by his vengeful grandfather. Johannes Verne was soon to be rescued by outlaws, but no one could save him from the lasting memory of his grandfather’s…

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Why read it?

1 author picked The Lonesome Gods as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

Rebecca Tope

Author

I bought this book in Arizona during a recent road trip. I’ve read several Louis L’Amour stories, because I love Westerns.

This is one of his longest – a real epic. It is set in the deserts of California and Arizona, with a map and totally authentic history. The characters are strong and consistent, the situations exciting. L’Amour employs all the usual stereotypes (strong goodie, terrifying baddie, feisty females) and makes them real.

He is the forerunner of the Jack Reacher books which use many of the same features in an updated setting.

From Rebecca's 3 favorite reads in 2023.