Set against the backdrop of the gold rush and the dawn of Hollywood, Dennis's third novel (after Stars of Fire) features a large cast of compelling characters, an ambitious span of time, and emotional depth. At the center of this multi-generational tale is Cat McDonald, haunted by his murky history, and Fool's Gold, a girl who deals with the murder of her foster mother by dreaming of avenging her real mother. While there are villains aplenty, Nugget Ned rises to the top of the heap with his ties to the Klan, philandering, and greed. Though compelling, this is a somber narrative full of attempted murder, child abuse, racism, and forced prostitution, all presented with authentic historical details that may be too real for some. Though it's love—in all its forms�that bonds this cluttered family epic, revenge comes in a strong second. (May)
