On Swift Horses
On Swift Horses
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Brief
Beta320
Novel • Fiction
Western United States • 1950s
2019
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
On Swift Horses by Shannon Pufahl explores the intertwining lives of two individuals in 1950s America. Muriel, a young newlywed, and her brother-in-law, Julius, both seek autonomy and understanding. Set against a backdrop of casinos and racetracks, their journeys reveal themes of love, family, and identity as they navigate personal and societal constraints.
Melancholic
Mysterious
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
1,510 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
On Swift Horses by Shannon Pufahl is praised for its lyrical prose and vivid depiction of 1950s American life. The nuanced exploration of marginalized identities and desires elicits admiration. Some critics note a slow pace and complex narrative structure as drawbacks. Overall, it's viewed as a thoughtful and evocative debut.
Who Should Read On Swift Horses?
Fans of On Swift Horses by Shannon Pufahl would enjoy character-driven narratives exploring themes of love and identity in post-war America. Comparable to The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai and The Night Watch by Sarah Waters, this novel appeals to readers of poignant historical fiction with rich, emotional depth.
1,510 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
320
Novel • Fiction
Western United States • 1950s
2019
Adult
18+ years
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