Ridgerunner - Gil Adamson - My Review

Gil Adamson’s “Ridgerunner” is a deeply anticipated follow-up to her highly acclaimed debut, “The Outlander.” While “The Outlander” remains a personal favorite, “Ridgerunner” offers a different, yet equally compelling, experience. This review will delve into my thoughts on the novel’s plot, characters, writing style, themes, and emotional impact, concluding with a recommendation and rating. For those interested in exploring more of my literary opinions, please visit My Ebook.

Plot Summary

“Ridgerunner” is set in November 1917, against the backdrop of a changing American West and a distant war. The story primarily follows twelve-year-old Jack Boulton, whose father, William Moreland, a notorious thief known as the “Ridgerunner,” has returned after nearly twenty years. William, aged and a widower, is determined to steal enough money to secure his son’s future.

Jack has been left in the care of Sister Beatrice, a stern nun who houses him in cloistered seclusion. Despite knowing his father is coming for him, Jack yearns for his family’s cabin in the woods. When he eventually escapes, he takes with him an item the formidable Sister Beatrice is desperate to retrieve. The narrative also charts Jack’s solitary journey of survival, aided by a loyal nameless horse and dog, and later by two pivotal, superbly written male characters.

Overall Thoughts and Feelings

Initially, I harbored reservations about “Ridgerunner.” The absence of “The Outlander’s” protagonist, Mary, felt like a significant loss. Furthermore, the novel possesses a more overtly masculine tone, with male characters dominating the narrative. However, my apprehension quickly dissipated. Young Jack is an incredibly endearing and vividly drawn character, making it impossible not to become deeply invested in his well-being. I found myself wanting to reach into the pages and offer him maternal comfort. The Nun, Sister Beatrice, despite a slow-burn introduction, evolves into one of the most complex and compelling characters, adding significant depth to the story.

Writing Style and Character Development

Adamson’s writing style is truly exceptional. It is lyrical, imaginative, and consistently shines through the narrative, elevating even the most brutal aspects of the characters’ lives. Her ability to craft vivid imagery is remarkable, transporting the reader directly into the harsh beauty of the Western landscape and the emotional turmoil of her characters.

The character development, particularly for Jack, is a standout strength. His journey from a sheltered, lonely boy to a resourceful survivor is masterfully portrayed. Even the secondary characters are written with a remarkable level of detail and humanity, each playing their parts admirably and leaving a lasting impression. The Father, though a recidivist and morally ambiguous, is depicted with a skewed sense of duty towards his son, adding layers of complexity to his character.

Literary Themes and Motifs

Several key themes and motifs weave through “Ridgerunner.”

Survival and Resilience

The core of the novel lies in Jack’s solitary quest for survival. His ability to endure hardship, aided by his animal companions and the few individuals who offer him assistance, is a testament to the human spirit’s resilience.

Abandonment and Connection

The pervasive sense of abandonment—Jack by his father, and the implicit absence of his deceased mother—is a powerful undercurrent. Yet, counterbalancing this is the burgeoning sense of connection and kinship Jack finds with his horse, his dog, and the men who aid him, highlighting the innate human need for belonging.

Recklessness and Lawlessness

The novel doesn’t shy away from the violent and lawless existence prevalent in the setting. This element, while at times shocking, is integral to the world Adamson has created and the reckless nature of the “Ridgerunner” himself.

Pacing and Structure

The pacing of “Ridgerunner” is deliberate. While the beginning might feel slow for some, the story gradually builds momentum, particularly as Jack embarks on his journey and encounters new characters. The structure effectively balances Jack’s perspective with glimpses into his father’s actions, creating a compelling dual narrative. I found the plot held my interest throughout, though the initial setup required a degree of patience that was amply rewarded.

Author’s Use of Language and Imagery

Adamson’s command of language is exquisite. Her prose is rich and evocative, painting scenes with a painterly precision.

Memorable Passages

One particularly moving aspect was the description of Jack’s connection with his horse and dog. These relationships, devoid of human complexity, offered a pure and loyal form of companionship that resonated deeply. While no specific quotes are recalled verbatim, the overall tone of the novel, capturing both the bleakness and the unexpected moments of grace, was profoundly memorable.

Emotional Impact

“Ridgerunner” is an emotionally resonant novel. It evokes a profound sense of empathy for young Jack and his arduous journey. The feeling of kinship I experienced while reading about his solitary survival, his longing for his parents, and his burgeoning connections with others, warmed my heart. The novel provokes deep thought about familial bonds, the consequences of desperation, and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity. Moments of Jack’s vulnerability and his quiet determination were particularly moving.

Themes and Messages

The author appears to be conveying the enduring strength of the human spirit and the universal need for connection, even in the harshest of environments. The novel suggests that family, in its broadest sense, can be found in unexpected places and forms. Adamson succeeds in portraying the harsh realities of the historical period and the “wild west” while simultaneously exploring the tender vulnerabilities of her characters.

Social and Cultural Commentary

While not overtly political, “Ridgerunner” offers glimpses into the social fabric of the early 20th-century American West. The presence of the Nun and the cloistered existence she enforces hints at certain societal norms and religious influences. The backdrop of a distant war subtly underscores the vastness of the world and the personal struggles that often unfold independent of global conflicts.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

  • Exceptional Writing: Gil Adamson’s lyrical and imaginative prose is a significant strength.
  • Compelling Characterization: Jack is a brilliantly developed protagonist, and the secondary characters are equally memorable.
  • Vivid Imagery: The descriptions of the landscape and the emotional states of the characters are incredibly evocative.
  • Emotional Resonance: The novel successfully evokes empathy and prompts reflection on themes of survival and connection.

Weaknesses

  • Initial Pacing: Some readers might find the initial pace a bit slow, particularly if they are accustomed to more action-driven narratives.
  • Absence of Mary: For fans of “The Outlander,” the absence of Mary, while understandable, might be a point of initial disappointment.

Recommendations

I would wholeheartedly recommend “Ridgerunner” to readers who appreciate literary Westerns, character-driven narratives, and beautiful prose. Fans of Gil Adamson’s “The Outlander” will find much to admire, though it’s important to approach it as a distinct story. Those who enjoy novels that explore themes of survival, resilience, and the complex nature of familial bonds will also find this book deeply rewarding.

Comparisons

As a follow-up to “The Outlander,” “Ridgerunner” shares Adamson’s characteristic skill in weaving vivid historical settings with deeply felt human drama. While “The Outlander” had a more overtly gothic feel, “Ridgerunner” leans into the gritty realism of the Western genre. Both novels showcase Adamson’s mastery of language and her ability to create unforgettable characters.

Rating

4.5 out of 5 Stars

“Ridgerunner” is a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant novel that, despite my initial trepidation, proved to be a deeply satisfying read. Gil Adamson’s prose is a constant delight, and the journey of young Jack is one that will stay with me for a long time. It’s a testament to Adamson’s talent that she can follow such a beloved debut with a novel that, while different, is equally powerful in its own right.

Where to Get It

  • Amazon: Link to Amazon (Search for “Ridgerunner Gil Adamson”)
  • Barnes & Noble: Link to Barnes & Noble (Search for “Ridgerunner Gil Adamson”)
  • Your Local Bookstore: Support your local independent bookstore!
  • Ebook: Available on most major ebook platforms. For more ebook reviews and resources, visit My Ebook.