Review of Desert of Dreams: Historical Novel Society North America Las Vegas Short Story Collection
From the moment I cracked open Desert of Dreams, I was entranced not only by the glittering facade of Las Vegas but by the complex tapestry of stories woven within its pages. As someone who has always been captivated by the contrasting dualities of dream and disillusionment, the collection perfectly encapsulates the essence of this enigmatic city. Compiled by the talented writers of the Historical Novel Society North America, this anthology is an exploration of Las Vegas from its dusty origins to its neon-lit present.
The collection opens with Suzanne Uttaro Samuels’ poignant tale “Doorway to the Desert,” which introduces us to Helen Stewart, a prescient figure in Las Vegas history. Here, the author deftly paints a picture of resilience amid tragedy, illuminating the often-overlooked stories that form the city’s foundation. Samuels has a talent for crafting characters that linger in your mind long after you close the book, and Helen is no exception. The theme of survival resonates throughout the anthology, pushing readers to reflect on the sacrifices made along the path to success.
Sally Milliken’s “Cowboy Justice” draws us deeper into the emotional landscape of the Stewart family, revealing the impact of violence and loss, which echoes throughout other stories in the collection. This theme of confronting the past is also present in Leah Moyes’ captivating piece, “One of Our Own,” where the glitz of the 1920s hides dark corners populated by danger and intrigue. The juxtaposition of historical context with personal struggles creates a narrative richness that kept me eagerly turning the pages.
Laura Mace’s “Lady Luck” took my breath away as it shifted perspectives to the hardworking Native American laborers of the Hoover Dam—an unexpected yet poignant lens that enriched my understanding of America’s hidden histories. Each story in this collection offers a unique take on the light and shadow that compose Las Vegas, while B.K. Froman’s “Up and Atom” and Julianne Douglas’ “A Flash in the Pan” cleverly intertwine humor with sobering realities like Cold War anxiety.
The writing style throughout the anthology ranges from lyrical to gritty, with each author bringing their unique voice to the table. There’s an infectious energy in the narrative techniques employed, particularly in Kurt Larsen’s grand-prize-winning “A Hard-Boiled Day’s Night.” His dark humor and clever twists turn a night at a Beatles concert into something far more thrilling. The various voices enhance the anthology’s richness, transforming the reader’s experience into a multi-faceted journey through Las Vegas history.
One of my favorite moments came from Lisa Ard’s “Fools Fall in Love,” where a young admirer attempts to thwart Elvis’ marriage plans. It made me chuckle while also probing deeper notions of love and longing. Quotes like “In Vegas, the lights can blind you to what truly matters” stayed with me, capturing the very essence of why we are drawn to this beautiful yet haunting city.
I believe Desert of Dreams will resonate with history buffs and casual readers alike, inviting all to peer behind the curtain of glitz and glamour. It’s an anthology that not only entertains but also challenges us to ponder the rich, often bittersweet, stories that lie beneath Las Vegas’s bustling exterior. By the end, I found myself not only enriched by the stories but also more curious about the dreams and heartaches that shaped this iconic city. Whether you’re a fan of Las Vegas or simply love compelling historical narratives, this collection is definitely worth a read.
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