Ivan Doig (1939–2015)

While the ongoing travel around Montana turns into a rather boring long saga and Jick's dialogue is not up to [Rascal Fair] or {English Creek],
there is still notable writing when Jick carries his Churchill speech along and the angry Buffalo delivers a well-deserved punch.

The Baloney Express was a true highlight!

Why there is no compassion for lamb and sheep slaughtering is never explained.

And why didn't The Rangers shot the Grizzly again with a tranquilizer instead of killing him?

And why do Indians always get a pass on the extreme cruelty of the Buffalo over the cliff killing
of so many creatures just left to die.

Riley's articles were erudite fun reading.

Riley's best line: "Aw, crud,"

Jick's best line: "this place is still in a bad mood."

Mariah's best: "ack-ack-ack-ack."

And, from Garland Good Hope Hebner: "A time was had by all."

I sure miss Lucas Barclay and Angus McCaskil!… (mere)

Prairie Nocturne deeply explores Susan, Wes, and Montgomery's thoughts, backgrounds,
and evolving motives and love, while always moving close to Two Medicine.

Sure did not see the endings coming around those high Rockies though Ninian's role was predictable.

And yet, what is missing? How Monty could take a chance on ruining The Observance by insisting
on including Susan? Once again, he is rescued by Wes. This was majorly disappointing since
he was supposed to be making his new Life on his own.

As well, assuming that Europe will welcome his mixed "marriage" felt off = hello Germany...

And what does Montgomery Rathbun look like?!?
Dark yes, but as tall or taller than Susan and Wes?
Or shorter because he fit in a barrel?

And, with Wes and his extensive thoughts around North Fork,
why does he never explain how he is not totally bored in New York Society
and - if he cannot convert to get a divorce and so finally honor Susan,
what is on his mind?

Ivan Doig - we need you back for The Sequel!… (mere)

There's Everything to love about this ENGLISH CREEK backstory, form Ivan Doig's vivid and compelling descriptions
of The Two Medicine land and its ever-changing weather to the engaging and honest characters.

Where it slips, and loses a half star, is allowing Adair to insistently refer to herself in the third person,

As well, there is no explanation at all why good old Anna did not prepare Angus by simply writing to him from her
new summer of lust with Isaac. That alone should have made him let go of his eternal Anna obsession.

From the opening death of the beautiful horse Ginger to many character's deaths,
none was less necessary to the plot than my favorite character, Lucas Barclay.

Many readers may still be singing along with "DANCING AT THE RASCAL FAIR"!… (mere)