Adelaide Henry carries an enormous steamer trunk with her wherever she goes. It’s locked at all times. Because when the trunk opens, people around Adelaide start to disappear.
The year is 1915, and Adelaide is in trouble. Her secret sin killed her parents, forcing her to flee California in a hellfire rush and make her way to Montana as a homesteader. Dragging the trunk with her at every stop, she will become one of the “lone women” taking advantage of the government’s offer of free land for those who can tame it—except that Adelaide isn’t alone. And the secret she’s tried so desperately to lock away might be the only thing that will help her survive the harsh territory.
Crafted by a modern master of magical suspense, Lone Women blends shimmering prose, an unforgettable cast of adventurers who find horror and sisterhood in a brutal landscape, and a portrait of early-twentieth-century America like you’ve never seen. And at its heart is the gripping story of a woman desperate to bury her past—or redeem it.
Lone Women by Victor LaValle is expected out March 28th, 2023 from One World.
My Thoughts:
Adelaide Henry is a strong woman. She's able to leave most of her past behind her, save what's in her trunk. Not that she doesn't have regrets perhaps, but rather that she is moving forward - taking positive action in light of what went before. Whatever is in that trunk though must be mighty important. But, it's for her eyes only. Dangerous things happen when other people open her trunk. I found the mystery surrounding the trunk irresistible.
I liked Adelaide and the other women she befriends out in the sparsely populated area of Big Sandy, Montana. Some of the other folks, not so much. They were sneaky and kept the dark side of themselves hidden for the most part. I especially enjoyed watching her friendship with Grace and Sam grow.
The pacing of the book was good. The building of tension and the twists was nicely done as well. I found it hard to put the book down. The ending surprised me in a good way.
I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars. This blend of historical fantasy, western, and horror makes for a good read. You might also consider it as part of the weird western genre. I would definitely recommend this book if you enjoy those genres or if you've read other works by Victor LaValle.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. This did not affect my opinions.
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