A review by randyrasa
Legends of the Fall by Jim Harrison

4.0

Three novellas in one collection, each very distinct and unconnected from the others. “Revenge” was excellent, reminding me of the fever-dream beauty of James Lee Burke's writing, and the stark no-nonsense violence of Thomas Perry, though obviously predating both those writers. “The Man Who Gave Up His Name” was less successful, I thought, being more inward-looking and self-absorbed, though quite entertaining and more thoughtful than it seems at first glance. The title novella, “Legends of the Fall”, was again excellent, remarkably epic despite its length. Overall, two 5-stars and a 3-star, makes for a 4-1/3 average, though I'm not sure that's a fair way to look at it. Beautiful writing, sharp dialog, richly-observed settings, sometimes-brutal action, and a deep sense of mastery.