Review of Tough Luck by Sandra Dallas
By golly, I had fun with this one! 🤩 As I dove into Tough Luck, I found myself instantly enchanted by the vibrant world of the American West that Sandra Dallas has crafted. The premise pulled me in—after losing their mother, Haidie and her younger brother, Boots, are tossed into a life at an orphanage as they await their father’s uncertain return from a quest for gold. This setup left me curious about their journey and hopeful for their reunion, instantly striking a conversation with my own childhood dreams of adventure.
The plot races forward with the siblings deciding to break free from the orphanage and embark on a perilous journey across the rugged terrain of Western territory. Haidie’s spunky nature shines throughout the narrative, and her ability to adapt—whether it’s managing mules or outsmarting unsavory characters—made me cheer for her every step of the way. From the moment their brother, Cheet (and yes, that name is not just fitting but foreshadowing!), sells the family farm, the stakes are high and the pace exhilarating. I was pleasantly surprised at how straightforward yet engaging the story was; it’s packed with action and colorful characters without feeling cluttered or confusing. In just ten chapters, Dallas manages to keep everything tight and on point—no loose ends here!
Ah, the characters! I must say, this was the highlight of the book for me. From the fiercely charming Haidie, who is humorously dubbed a liar (which was just too funny 😂), to sweet Boots, I couldn’t help but feel a connection with them. Each character they encounter—Jake, Corny, Teresa, and the fiercely protective dog—added layers to the story that kept me invested and rooting for their success. It’s a cozy community formed from adversity, and I loved every moment spent with these unique individuals.
Dallas’s writing style is nothing short of excellent; she breathes life into every scene with vivid imagery and relatable dialogue. I could almost feel the dust of the trail and hear the chatter of the bustling towns they visited! The pacing was spot on, holding my attention from start to finish, with moments of tension perfectly balanced by humor and heart. I’ll definitely be seeking out more of her works because the voice in Tough Luck is just so engaging!
As I wrap up my thoughts, I can’t help but say I completely adored this book! I can genuinely recommend Tough Luck to anyone who enjoys a well-told Western tale filled with rich characters and a palpable sense of adventure. It’s filled with heart, courage, and a satisfying exploration of community and resilience. If you loved What the Silent Say by Emerson Ford (and yes, I cannot shut up about that either!), you’ll want to add Tough Luck to your must-read list as well. It’s a perfect escape that left me smiling from ear to ear—what could be better? 😁
And speaking of perfect timing, it releases on my birthday, April 29, 2025! Best present ever? I think so! 🎂💕
If you enjoy tales of youthful tenacity and the wild heart of the West, grab a copy as soon as it hits the shelves. You won’t regret it!