Not much is known about the legendary Etta Place who ran with the Outlaw bank robbing Hole- in-the-wall gang at the turn of the century. Where the historical record leaves off, Gerald Koplan steps in telling Etta’s imagined and incredible life story in his debut novel, Etta. Etta begins the story as a tom-boy debutante, lovely even though she prefers horseback riding and shooting to the tedium of parties. When her dad commits suicide, leaving her in financial ruin and threatened by some of his shadier financiers, Etta escapes west. On the edge of civilization she unexpectedly finds fulfillment and love in the unlikeliest of places.
As expected, the villains are dastardly, the heroines sweet, and our outlaws are gentlemen. The novel is told through diary entries, first person narration from several of the characters, fictional newspaper clippings, letters etc… This structure is as enjoyable as it is effective. The only caveat is beginning the book with an obituary, disclosing Etta was 80 at death which negates much of the suspense Koplan subsequently works so hard to build. To his credit however he does establish a strong female voice in Etta, and despite knowing the conclusion you will want to sort out the details of her journey.
The author admits in his notes that beyond fictionalizing some actual historical figures the bulk of his tale is not grounded in fact. If you are seeking a factual re-telling of the female outlaw or the hole in the wall gang this is not your book. However Etta expertly takes aim and is sure to captivate Historical Fiction and Western fans alike.
Widget by Css Reflex | TutZone
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
ReplyDeleteThanks?
ReplyDeleteI took a semester of Chinese in college...I don't remember much, but I'm pretty sure everything he said right there was positive.
ReplyDelete