What do you think?
Rate this book
Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert
A modern girl caught in the chaos of the modern world, Skye takes a drastic turn when she escapes a toxic relationship. Driving across country she seeks solace at her sister's house in the low desert reuniting with her best friend Dylan, whose discovery of a mysterious rock sparks a belief in its magical properties. With the help of a psychic, her sister, her ex, a phantom dog and a little Ho’oponopono Skye weathers the unexpected twists and turns during the course of a summer that changes her life forever.
… a journey away from the familiar and into the desert of discovery…As relationship quandaries, marriage possibilities, and good and harmful emotional connections emerge against the backdrop of the desert environment, readers receive a multifaceted story that connects via both emotional and landscape twists of perspective.
Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert is a novel that pulls at heart and mind alike. Through Skye's journey and process of letting go everything she's held tightly throughout her life, readers receive a compelling saga…
D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
… a journey away from the familiar and into the desert of discovery…As relationship quandaries, marriage possibilities, and good and harmful emotional connections emerge against the backdrop of the desert environment, readers receive a multifaceted story that connects via both emotional and landscape twists of perspective.
Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert is a novel that pulls at heart and mind alike. Through Skye's journey and process of letting go everything she's held tightly throughout her life, readers receive a compelling saga…
D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
- GenresFiction
302 pages, Paperback
Published October 20, 2023
3 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Lis Anna-Langston
13 books328 followersLis Anna-Langston was raised along the winding current of the Mississippi River on a steady diet of dog-eared books. She attended a Creative and Performing Arts School from middle school until graduation and went on to study Literature at Webster University. Her two novels, Gobbledy and Tupelo Honey have won the Parents’ Choice Gold, Moonbeam Book Award, Independent Press Award, Benjamin Franklin Book Award and NYC Big Book Awards. Twice nominated for the Pushcart award and Finalist in the Brighthorse Book Prize, William Faulkner Fiction Contest and Thomas Wolfe Fiction Award, her work has been published in The Literary Review, Emerson Review, The Merrimack Review, Emrys Journal, The MacGuffin, Sand Hill Review and dozens of other literary journals.
She draws badly, sings loudly, loves ketchup, starry skies & stories with happy aliens.
You can find her in the wilds of South Carolina plucking stories out of thin air.
www.lisannalangston.com
She draws badly, sings loudly, loves ketchup, starry skies & stories with happy aliens.
You can find her in the wilds of South Carolina plucking stories out of thin air.
www.lisannalangston.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
September 26, 2023
I just finished Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert by Lis Anna-Langston. I’m torn about how to review it. I found the story interesting. Skye, the main character, is a young woman who is rather lost and the story follows her emotional journey as she tries to find her true self.
I liked the characters. Skye has a hippie UFO chasing best friend Dylan, and her hottie ex-boyfriend Trevor and together they make an odd but likeable trio. Throw in her tough butt-kicking sister, phantom dogs, strange spinning lights and glowing rocks and you’ve got an interesting mix to move the story along. I empathized with the young adult characters as they each searched for meaning in the world around them. I was drawn into their lives and wanted them to find their path. I enjoyed the desert scenes and the way the author painted that landscape for the reader as well as the scenes involving the strange spinning lights or UFOs.
My struggle was with how Skye expressed her thoughts and feelings. So many metaphors and similes that just felt over reaching and actually wore me out reading them. The author used the term “word glop” and it stuck in my head because I felt it described the way Skye thought and spoke. A little bit of that goes a long way.
I did enjoy the story line however and the ending so I will check out other novels by this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I liked the characters. Skye has a hippie UFO chasing best friend Dylan, and her hottie ex-boyfriend Trevor and together they make an odd but likeable trio. Throw in her tough butt-kicking sister, phantom dogs, strange spinning lights and glowing rocks and you’ve got an interesting mix to move the story along. I empathized with the young adult characters as they each searched for meaning in the world around them. I was drawn into their lives and wanted them to find their path. I enjoyed the desert scenes and the way the author painted that landscape for the reader as well as the scenes involving the strange spinning lights or UFOs.
My struggle was with how Skye expressed her thoughts and feelings. So many metaphors and similes that just felt over reaching and actually wore me out reading them. The author used the term “word glop” and it stuck in my head because I felt it described the way Skye thought and spoke. A little bit of that goes a long way.
I did enjoy the story line however and the ending so I will check out other novels by this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 29, 2023
Going back to the desert after years away from home, hanging out with some people you know, finding true self, and explore things into the unknown.
Here are my thoughts. I got a bit confused between two places that were mentioned there, but I understood better as I read through it. I noticed some small fantasy parts that I didn't see that coming. I liked the whole story, except the near end of the book which that made me a little bit sad. Overall, this is such an interesting book!
4.5/5 stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All of the opinions are my own. Thank you Lis Anna-Langston and BookSirens!
Here are my thoughts. I got a bit confused between two places that were mentioned there, but I understood better as I read through it. I noticed some small fantasy parts that I didn't see that coming. I liked the whole story, except the near end of the book which that made me a little bit sad. Overall, this is such an interesting book!
4.5/5 stars
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. All of the opinions are my own. Thank you Lis Anna-Langston and BookSirens!
September 27, 2023
I'm not sure I actually know why I loved this story. An existential path through truth that some of us live and some of us run from. Skye's mind runs a mile a minute and we are stuck on that train. But we have Dylan to walk us thru. Its a chick book. Its a Stand By Me or My Girl story. Lots of angst. Lots of magic. None of this will actually tell you what to expect but I loved the story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 28, 2023
The overview of Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert by Lis Anna-Langston was enough to make me consider reviewing it, but the cover of a seemingly endless desert road clinched it. The title not so much, at first, although its appropriateness eventually surfaces along the personal road we take from the vantage of the first person narrator, Skye. A ride that's compelling, unpredictable, and entertaining.
Six years earlier, seventeen-year-old Skye apparently got cold feet in her ideal relationship with "high school crush" Trevor and, without warning, took off from New Mexico to South Carolina, to meet a man she met on the Internet. Inadvertently going from too good to be true in the desert, to too bad to realize in the east, until at last she reached a breaking point sending her off, again without warning, back to her hometown.
The story begins with Skye's arrival in her mice-ridden car at her older sister's house and the easy comfort of family and friends. Nevertheless, she faces mild reverse culture shock seeing those closest to her living relatively stable lives moving forward, in contrast to her own stalled existence. Relatively being the operative word, for those people have not shed off all the quirks of youth.
Skye's older sister, Stella, is possibly a Wiccan. Their parents, who don't act their age, travel and reside in a trailer, revelling in the rebirth of their romance. Trevor, with whom Skye re-ignites a mutual spark that triggers much of the conflict in the novel, is married. It's a troubled marriage, theoretically increasing his availability potential, but its combustible nature also increases the complications and consequences of any resurrection of their old love.
Then there's perhaps the most engaging character, even keeled Dylan, her old best friend. A serious UFO hunter and moderate drug user, Dylan lives in a trailer out in the desert. He and Trevor are friends and together go on extra-terrestrial quests. An amorphous, sometimes juvenile, blend of wisdom, wit, and wackiness, Dylan reminds me of Duckie from the movie, Pretty in Pink. Except more mature and not as cloyingly pathetic, with Skye a correspondingly less stable Andie. They share hallucinations of his dead dog and a fascination with a strange meteorite that glows pink Dylan found recently.
Skye, motivated by mystery and attraction, joins Dylan and Trevor on their quests into the desert. These aren't blind missions, but guided by coordinates clandestinely supplied by Trevor's cousin in the Air Force. They chase strange lights and experience inexplicable but wonderful phenomena, including vivid childhood scenes, at the expense of short term memory and phone batteries. The mixture of the fantastic with the earthly dynamics of human relationships combine to compel Skye into figuring out her life. Perhaps to help her reconcile reality with fantasy, or in other words: just grow up.
This use of magical realism nicely augments what might otherwise be an interesting but not especially unique human drama. Skye's smarmy hipster, smart aleck voice hits the right notes with just enough humility and pathos to maintain a balance between cleverness and sincerity, with some amusing yet revealing exchanges, particularly with Dylan when she says:
“This world is black and white.”
Shaking his head, Dylan said, “No. This world is a complex infinity of choices.”
It was amazing how Dylan could make me feel so dumb and so sensible at the same time.
It does take a while for the conflicts to ramp up, but once they do they soar, as we navigate the ups downs of Skye's reconnection with Trevor and others—mostly Trevor—amid the suspense of what is going on out in the desert, and the significance of the meteorite. While the desert scenes are terrific, some of the exchanges in the real world, particularly one argument with Trevor, can feel elongated and more circular than necessary.
The spare prose makes Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert a light read that could be undertaken in a single day. This is assisted by an occasional overuse of single sentence paragraphs for emphasis nearing the end, of which I'm not a big fan. The pace is also enhanced by a good amount of fast paced dialogue. Luckily, that dialogue sounds distinct, natural, without overt exposition, of which I am a fan. Skye is a good character too and, given her situation, one might expect a passive protagonist/narrator, but she gets her licks in.
I've touched on just a few characters, but others with smaller roles play key parts. There is a fair bit that happens in this tale of Skye's homecoming, more than what one senses while reading. The plot of Skye's maturing has plenty of plausible twists and turns making it deceptively intricate.
These intensify as the novel reaches its climax. Perhaps that's why, in comparison, the ending, though satisfying (including resolving the title), is a bit saccharine for my admittedly cynical tastes. I'll pin that on me because I imagine it is fully suitable for most. It falls under the realm of women's fiction but this highly enjoyable novel has universal appeal.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Six years earlier, seventeen-year-old Skye apparently got cold feet in her ideal relationship with "high school crush" Trevor and, without warning, took off from New Mexico to South Carolina, to meet a man she met on the Internet. Inadvertently going from too good to be true in the desert, to too bad to realize in the east, until at last she reached a breaking point sending her off, again without warning, back to her hometown.
The story begins with Skye's arrival in her mice-ridden car at her older sister's house and the easy comfort of family and friends. Nevertheless, she faces mild reverse culture shock seeing those closest to her living relatively stable lives moving forward, in contrast to her own stalled existence. Relatively being the operative word, for those people have not shed off all the quirks of youth.
Skye's older sister, Stella, is possibly a Wiccan. Their parents, who don't act their age, travel and reside in a trailer, revelling in the rebirth of their romance. Trevor, with whom Skye re-ignites a mutual spark that triggers much of the conflict in the novel, is married. It's a troubled marriage, theoretically increasing his availability potential, but its combustible nature also increases the complications and consequences of any resurrection of their old love.
Then there's perhaps the most engaging character, even keeled Dylan, her old best friend. A serious UFO hunter and moderate drug user, Dylan lives in a trailer out in the desert. He and Trevor are friends and together go on extra-terrestrial quests. An amorphous, sometimes juvenile, blend of wisdom, wit, and wackiness, Dylan reminds me of Duckie from the movie, Pretty in Pink. Except more mature and not as cloyingly pathetic, with Skye a correspondingly less stable Andie. They share hallucinations of his dead dog and a fascination with a strange meteorite that glows pink Dylan found recently.
Skye, motivated by mystery and attraction, joins Dylan and Trevor on their quests into the desert. These aren't blind missions, but guided by coordinates clandestinely supplied by Trevor's cousin in the Air Force. They chase strange lights and experience inexplicable but wonderful phenomena, including vivid childhood scenes, at the expense of short term memory and phone batteries. The mixture of the fantastic with the earthly dynamics of human relationships combine to compel Skye into figuring out her life. Perhaps to help her reconcile reality with fantasy, or in other words: just grow up.
This use of magical realism nicely augments what might otherwise be an interesting but not especially unique human drama. Skye's smarmy hipster, smart aleck voice hits the right notes with just enough humility and pathos to maintain a balance between cleverness and sincerity, with some amusing yet revealing exchanges, particularly with Dylan when she says:
“This world is black and white.”
Shaking his head, Dylan said, “No. This world is a complex infinity of choices.”
It was amazing how Dylan could make me feel so dumb and so sensible at the same time.
It does take a while for the conflicts to ramp up, but once they do they soar, as we navigate the ups downs of Skye's reconnection with Trevor and others—mostly Trevor—amid the suspense of what is going on out in the desert, and the significance of the meteorite. While the desert scenes are terrific, some of the exchanges in the real world, particularly one argument with Trevor, can feel elongated and more circular than necessary.
The spare prose makes Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert a light read that could be undertaken in a single day. This is assisted by an occasional overuse of single sentence paragraphs for emphasis nearing the end, of which I'm not a big fan. The pace is also enhanced by a good amount of fast paced dialogue. Luckily, that dialogue sounds distinct, natural, without overt exposition, of which I am a fan. Skye is a good character too and, given her situation, one might expect a passive protagonist/narrator, but she gets her licks in.
I've touched on just a few characters, but others with smaller roles play key parts. There is a fair bit that happens in this tale of Skye's homecoming, more than what one senses while reading. The plot of Skye's maturing has plenty of plausible twists and turns making it deceptively intricate.
These intensify as the novel reaches its climax. Perhaps that's why, in comparison, the ending, though satisfying (including resolving the title), is a bit saccharine for my admittedly cynical tastes. I'll pin that on me because I imagine it is fully suitable for most. It falls under the realm of women's fiction but this highly enjoyable novel has universal appeal.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 2, 2024
“Lis Anna-Langston’s ‘Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert’ is a refreshing, whirlwind journey of self-discovery, masterfully penned with the chaotic charm reminiscent of Sally Rooney’s novels. Through the eyes of Skye, a deeply flawed yet incredibly endearing protagonist, Anna-Langston crafts a narrative so rich in existential quandaries and metaphysical adventures that it captivates from the very first page. Skye’s return to her desert hometown after years of absence serves as the perfect backdrop for an exploration of life’s perennial themes—love, friendship, family, and the relentless quest for self. Anna-Langston’s prose is both sharp and tender, weaving a tale that is as humorous as it is poignant. Skye’s inner monologues, laden with wit and introspection, invite readers into her tumultuous journey towards clarity and purpose. The novel’s eclectic cast of characters, each vividly brought to life, mirrors the complexities of real-life relationships, making the story resonate on a deeply personal level. The author’s skillful narrative ensures that each character, from Trevor, the heartbroken friend, to Dylan, the understanding confidante, contributes significantly to Skye’s transformative journey.
Set against the mystical allure of the Mojave Desert, the novel transcends mere storytelling, incorporating elements of magic and mysticism that enrich the narrative, adding layers of depth and intrigue. The desert, with its enigmatic lights and mysteries, mirrors Skye’s internal search for meaning, making her external journey as captivating as her internal one.
‘Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert’ is a testament to Anna-Langston’s storytelling prowess, seamlessly blending existential themes with engaging, relatable humor. It’s a story that reassures readers that amidst life’s chaos, there is beauty in the search for one’s place in the world. This novel is not just a reading experience; it’s an introspective journey that challenges, entertains, and ultimately enlightens.
Perfect for fans of character-driven stories and those seeking a novel that combines the levity of everyday life with the weight of existential thought, ‘Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert’ promises to be a memorable addition to contemporary literature. Anna-Langston has indeed crafted a story that is as unforgettable as it is insightful, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates the art of nuanced storytelling.”
Set against the mystical allure of the Mojave Desert, the novel transcends mere storytelling, incorporating elements of magic and mysticism that enrich the narrative, adding layers of depth and intrigue. The desert, with its enigmatic lights and mysteries, mirrors Skye’s internal search for meaning, making her external journey as captivating as her internal one.
‘Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert’ is a testament to Anna-Langston’s storytelling prowess, seamlessly blending existential themes with engaging, relatable humor. It’s a story that reassures readers that amidst life’s chaos, there is beauty in the search for one’s place in the world. This novel is not just a reading experience; it’s an introspective journey that challenges, entertains, and ultimately enlightens.
Perfect for fans of character-driven stories and those seeking a novel that combines the levity of everyday life with the weight of existential thought, ‘Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert’ promises to be a memorable addition to contemporary literature. Anna-Langston has indeed crafted a story that is as unforgettable as it is insightful, making it a must-read for anyone who appreciates the art of nuanced storytelling.”
December 30, 2023
I’m going to start my review with the ending. I finished reading it and immediately thought, what did I just read? The answer was a book filled with mystery and every kind of character you could imagine. And that’s a big seller for me. I love character driven stories and here you have some young adults trying to look at the big picture. Answer those big questions. Why are we here? What does it all mean?
Skye returned home with a broken heart and mice living in her car. Hoping for the comfort of familiar surroundings and friends. She discovers things didn’t stand still while she was gone. People changed. The small town she remembered changed. And something in the desert will change her too. And my perspective on what I was reading changed. I thought the story was going one way. It went another. My focus deepened. The story changed again. My focus deepened again. And I could not stop reading until I got the big picture. I got the meaning. I got the answers.
And those characters I mentioned. Every kind you could imagine. How about a dead chinchilla living in a freezer. Or a ghost dog. The pink meteorite and the desert felt like characters too.
After reading the synopsis I had a feeling I would enjoy this voyage. Halfway through reading the book I knew for sure. And by the end, I loved it.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
Skye returned home with a broken heart and mice living in her car. Hoping for the comfort of familiar surroundings and friends. She discovers things didn’t stand still while she was gone. People changed. The small town she remembered changed. And something in the desert will change her too. And my perspective on what I was reading changed. I thought the story was going one way. It went another. My focus deepened. The story changed again. My focus deepened again. And I could not stop reading until I got the big picture. I got the meaning. I got the answers.
And those characters I mentioned. Every kind you could imagine. How about a dead chinchilla living in a freezer. Or a ghost dog. The pink meteorite and the desert felt like characters too.
After reading the synopsis I had a feeling I would enjoy this voyage. Halfway through reading the book I knew for sure. And by the end, I loved it.
I received a complimentary copy. My review is voluntarily given.
November 26, 2023
"Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert" by Lis Anna-Langston is a compelling exploration of self-discovery and emotional upheaval. Skye's journey away from the familiar and into the desert becomes a poignant metaphor for her internal struggles. The novel beautifully weaves together relationship quandaries, marriage possibilities, and emotional connections against the breathtaking backdrop of the desert. Anna-Langston skillfully connects emotional and landscape perspectives, providing readers with a multifaceted story that resonates deeply.
While the narrative's emotional depth is commendable, there are instances where the pacing feels uneven, causing some disruption to the overall flow. Additionally, certain character interactions could benefit from further development to enhance the reader's connection with their dynamics. Despite these minor critiques, "Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert" remains a powerful and thought-provoking saga, leaving a lasting impression with its evocative exploration of love, loss, and the transformative power of the desert landscape.
While the narrative's emotional depth is commendable, there are instances where the pacing feels uneven, causing some disruption to the overall flow. Additionally, certain character interactions could benefit from further development to enhance the reader's connection with their dynamics. Despite these minor critiques, "Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert" remains a powerful and thought-provoking saga, leaving a lasting impression with its evocative exploration of love, loss, and the transformative power of the desert landscape.
December 11, 2023
I really liked the writing style of this book, it was told in first person to begin with and conversationally. I like that as you feel that you are riding with the MC, Skye. Skye has returned to the desert after 6 years and a very bad relationship with someone.
She arrives home to find the guy she left Trevor, is married to a cheating spouse. Skye left Trevor probably because she was scared of being with the one person who you can't see yourself without, this is very relatable to my own relationship.
I love the interactions between her and her sister, it is hilarious at times and also just how I would imagine a sisterhood would be with sisters. I also like the interactions with Skye and Trevor throughout the book and how they go on a hunt looking for Trevor's cheating wife together. That was amusing.
All in all, I have to say I enjoyed this book and I really liked this one.
She arrives home to find the guy she left Trevor, is married to a cheating spouse. Skye left Trevor probably because she was scared of being with the one person who you can't see yourself without, this is very relatable to my own relationship.
I love the interactions between her and her sister, it is hilarious at times and also just how I would imagine a sisterhood would be with sisters. I also like the interactions with Skye and Trevor throughout the book and how they go on a hunt looking for Trevor's cheating wife together. That was amusing.
All in all, I have to say I enjoyed this book and I really liked this one.
November 24, 2023
how can you do justice to a great book in just few words? Writer present this book with a finesse only a talented person possibly could do. With an unapologetically realistic delivery packed with emotion, This story is a crucially important portrayal of the difficulties minorities face in our country every single day. It's packed with deep feelings, emotions of home coming, nostalgia, to a changes a person goes through after every journey. From the very beginning itself, author has created a scene of home coming, traveling in a car to the struggling and uncertainty in thoughts, when you ask yourself unanswered questions. Writer has also further wrote about the essence of the landscape of the beautiful desert. The cover of the novel is outstanding and so is the story.
December 15, 2023
So excited to be part of this booktour with @rockstarbooktours and @lis.anna.langston.
👧🏻 review: This book is weird but strangely good. It is for an older YA but the story made the book feel realistic and the story is very telling of strange but wonderful things. At first, I slowly got into the book but eventually I realized I have to read it freely to understand the plot and the characters in the book. Skye and Dylan’s friendship with ex-Trevor made sense and the constant seeking out the world, the funny dialogues and the ending made this wholesome book worthwhile. I really like this coming of age and I don’t know why I feel like Skye can be relatable even though my life is no where close to hers. One fine book!
👧🏻 review: This book is weird but strangely good. It is for an older YA but the story made the book feel realistic and the story is very telling of strange but wonderful things. At first, I slowly got into the book but eventually I realized I have to read it freely to understand the plot and the characters in the book. Skye and Dylan’s friendship with ex-Trevor made sense and the constant seeking out the world, the funny dialogues and the ending made this wholesome book worthwhile. I really like this coming of age and I don’t know why I feel like Skye can be relatable even though my life is no where close to hers. One fine book!
December 3, 2023
Just … this book was so so good! The style, the words, the descriptions, the pains and the releases of tension. I enjoyed this so much and even made me giggle. This line of magic fiction and reality all together while helping the main character understand what who how she is. More is coming for my review!
October 22, 2023
So, do you run back to your little sad sack town because your heart’s been broken, and you don’t know where else to go? Do you run to stay with a family member because you really don’t have a place to stay? That’s what Skye did in this story, ran back to her old friends except things were different now. If you’re from a small town like me, you’ll totally identify with some of this. Things change, past boyfriends, old girlfriends, favorite haunts. All those things you had in your picture are different, but have you changed?
I would describe this book as quaquaversal, a story with a common center but pointing out in all directions. I think this is a style of the author. Having read her previous books and liked them all, I find she does have a sort of helter-skelter way of pulling you in. She tends to jump into the story. Then there’s a point you notice your reading has quickened. Anna-Langston has further grabbed your attention with heart-felt characters and laughs and tears. Although each of her books is very different, somehow in each one she makes you feel as vulnerable as her characters do. This style often makes me wonder if the stories don’t come from personal experiences.
So how does this author do this? How are you reading a sort of quirky story set in a run-down small town and all of a sudden you can see a 360-degree view rather than only the 180 that you could at the beginning? Now you aren’t seeing the same story. You are feeling philosophical, waxing nostalgic about past loves, and wondering if you’ll survive. What you thought was going to be one story turns out to be another. What you thought might be sort of offbeat has now become somewhat profound. It’s funny, and yet it’s heavy. It seems to be her style and every book is a new ride. This one just happens to be on a wild ass.
I would describe this book as quaquaversal, a story with a common center but pointing out in all directions. I think this is a style of the author. Having read her previous books and liked them all, I find she does have a sort of helter-skelter way of pulling you in. She tends to jump into the story. Then there’s a point you notice your reading has quickened. Anna-Langston has further grabbed your attention with heart-felt characters and laughs and tears. Although each of her books is very different, somehow in each one she makes you feel as vulnerable as her characters do. This style often makes me wonder if the stories don’t come from personal experiences.
So how does this author do this? How are you reading a sort of quirky story set in a run-down small town and all of a sudden you can see a 360-degree view rather than only the 180 that you could at the beginning? Now you aren’t seeing the same story. You are feeling philosophical, waxing nostalgic about past loves, and wondering if you’ll survive. What you thought was going to be one story turns out to be another. What you thought might be sort of offbeat has now become somewhat profound. It’s funny, and yet it’s heavy. It seems to be her style and every book is a new ride. This one just happens to be on a wild ass.
November 16, 2023
I recently completed reading "Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert" by Lis Anna, and I have to say that it felt like entering a nostalgic lane. As I turn the pages, I find myself in the middle of the Mojave Desert, experiencing the heat and flavor of the dust. It seems Anna-Langston brought the desert into my living room with her evocative descriptions.
Let's talk about the characters. Skye, the protagonist, seemed like an old acquaintance I was getting back in touch with. Returning to her homeland and ending an unhappy relationship were deeply personal experiences for her. And then there's Dylan, a best friend who chases UFOs. I couldn't resist laughing at his oddities. And let's say that the ex-boyfriend Trevor's homecoming caused some emotional stirs.
The author has used the magic brush to paint the desert scenes. It seems like reality has taken a detour into fantasy land when you see strange spinning lights, flashing pebbles, and ghostly dogs. Every page was a surprise, and I had the impression that I was trying to figure everything out alongside Skye.
Here's a unique thing about Skye expressing herself throughout the story: with several similes and metaphors, it sometimes felt like a word salad. The writer referred to it as "word glop," and indeed, that stayed with me. It might be cool in moderation, but when used excessively, it becomes tiresome.
Despite my mental gymnastics trying to keep up with the metaphors, there's this undeniable charm to the story. It's more than just a story about coming of age—rather, it's an adventure into a strange and fantastic world. This is one crazy, unpredictable adventure involving UFOs, cosmic rocks, and a psychic who gives some excellent advice.
In the end, it's a crazy, surreal read that makes you both chuckle and scratch your head. Try it if you're up for an oddball, desert-themed adventure.
Let's talk about the characters. Skye, the protagonist, seemed like an old acquaintance I was getting back in touch with. Returning to her homeland and ending an unhappy relationship were deeply personal experiences for her. And then there's Dylan, a best friend who chases UFOs. I couldn't resist laughing at his oddities. And let's say that the ex-boyfriend Trevor's homecoming caused some emotional stirs.
The author has used the magic brush to paint the desert scenes. It seems like reality has taken a detour into fantasy land when you see strange spinning lights, flashing pebbles, and ghostly dogs. Every page was a surprise, and I had the impression that I was trying to figure everything out alongside Skye.
Here's a unique thing about Skye expressing herself throughout the story: with several similes and metaphors, it sometimes felt like a word salad. The writer referred to it as "word glop," and indeed, that stayed with me. It might be cool in moderation, but when used excessively, it becomes tiresome.
Despite my mental gymnastics trying to keep up with the metaphors, there's this undeniable charm to the story. It's more than just a story about coming of age—rather, it's an adventure into a strange and fantastic world. This is one crazy, unpredictable adventure involving UFOs, cosmic rocks, and a psychic who gives some excellent advice.
In the end, it's a crazy, surreal read that makes you both chuckle and scratch your head. Try it if you're up for an oddball, desert-themed adventure.
October 28, 2023
Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert is a coming-of-age story of one young woman struggling with life choices.
Oh, but it’s so much more. It’s a marvelously told tale of a group of young adults seeking the answers to The Big Questions of Life. The clues they uncover include a meteorite glowing pink, a phantom dog, mice, beetles, and a gay psychic who recommends the practice of Ho’oponopono.
We meet Skye as she’s returning home after six years on her own in an unsatisfying relationship. The first thing we learn about her is that she has mice in her car. She reunites with her sister. Stella, and her best friend Dylan, who has been observing the meteorite in the middle of the desert while chasing Charlie, his deceased, now phantom dog. She also comes home to find her ex-boyfriend Trevor has married.
Lis Anna-Langston has crafted a compelling story filled with angst and humor, love and loyalty, and friendship and family, in a desert setting perfectly balanced between realism and surrealism.
She’s built a world that’s familiar to anyone who’s ever questioned the larger questions of life: Why are we here? Who sent us here? What’s the meaning of it all?
Yet it’s distinctly quirky and a bit foreign. It’s a world where UFOs intersect with psychics, a ghost dog roams freely while a dead chinchilla lives in a freezer.
I absolutely loved this unpredictable tale. Thanks to the deft storytelling of Anna-Langston, I cared about Skye despite her sometimes-self-destructive behavior. Her best friend Dylan became my best friend, glowing meteor, and all. And I rooted for a reunion with her ex, Trevor.
My Rating: 5+++ stars
Reviewed by: Terry
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
Oh, but it’s so much more. It’s a marvelously told tale of a group of young adults seeking the answers to The Big Questions of Life. The clues they uncover include a meteorite glowing pink, a phantom dog, mice, beetles, and a gay psychic who recommends the practice of Ho’oponopono.
We meet Skye as she’s returning home after six years on her own in an unsatisfying relationship. The first thing we learn about her is that she has mice in her car. She reunites with her sister. Stella, and her best friend Dylan, who has been observing the meteorite in the middle of the desert while chasing Charlie, his deceased, now phantom dog. She also comes home to find her ex-boyfriend Trevor has married.
Lis Anna-Langston has crafted a compelling story filled with angst and humor, love and loyalty, and friendship and family, in a desert setting perfectly balanced between realism and surrealism.
She’s built a world that’s familiar to anyone who’s ever questioned the larger questions of life: Why are we here? Who sent us here? What’s the meaning of it all?
Yet it’s distinctly quirky and a bit foreign. It’s a world where UFOs intersect with psychics, a ghost dog roams freely while a dead chinchilla lives in a freezer.
I absolutely loved this unpredictable tale. Thanks to the deft storytelling of Anna-Langston, I cared about Skye despite her sometimes-self-destructive behavior. Her best friend Dylan became my best friend, glowing meteor, and all. And I rooted for a reunion with her ex, Trevor.
My Rating: 5+++ stars
Reviewed by: Terry
This review first appeared: https://www.nnlightsbookheaven.com/po...
August 28, 2023
Summary
Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert is a women's contemporary fiction by Lis Anna-Langston. The story revolves around Skye's emotional journey and relationships and begins when she escapes her toxic life in South Carolina to seek solace at her sister's house in the low desert. There, she reunites with her best friend Dylan whose discovery of a mysterious rock sparks a belief in its magical properties. With the help of a psychic, her sister, her ex, a phantom dog, and a little Ho'oponopono, she deals with unexpected twists and turns and changes her life forever.
Review
Surprisingly, this novel felt both strange and yet, familiar. Strange because the author incorporated an element of fantasy, and familiar because of the very realistic situation and setting. I like the combination. It didn’t feel like a natural fit for the story at first, but it grew on me. Skye’s character resonated with me and made me realize how hard it is to deal with a character like her, trying to escape instead of facing the challenges that come her way. Overall, I’m giving this book 5 out of 5 stars. It was unique and absorbing with great philosophical dialogues, and good character motivations. Highly recommended.
Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert is a women's contemporary fiction by Lis Anna-Langston. The story revolves around Skye's emotional journey and relationships and begins when she escapes her toxic life in South Carolina to seek solace at her sister's house in the low desert. There, she reunites with her best friend Dylan whose discovery of a mysterious rock sparks a belief in its magical properties. With the help of a psychic, her sister, her ex, a phantom dog, and a little Ho'oponopono, she deals with unexpected twists and turns and changes her life forever.
Review
Surprisingly, this novel felt both strange and yet, familiar. Strange because the author incorporated an element of fantasy, and familiar because of the very realistic situation and setting. I like the combination. It didn’t feel like a natural fit for the story at first, but it grew on me. Skye’s character resonated with me and made me realize how hard it is to deal with a character like her, trying to escape instead of facing the challenges that come her way. Overall, I’m giving this book 5 out of 5 stars. It was unique and absorbing with great philosophical dialogues, and good character motivations. Highly recommended.
November 22, 2023
🅑🅞🅞🅚 🅡🅔🅥🅘🅔🅦📚
𝓑𝓞𝓞𝓚 - Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert
𝓐𝓤𝓣𝓗𝓞𝓡 - Lis Anna- Langston
𝓖𝓔𝓝𝓡𝓔 - Sci-Fi
𝓡𝓐𝓣𝓘𝓝𝓖𝓢 - 3.5/5
ＲＥＶＩＥＷ:
This book is an amazing mystery that is unfolded by Skye (our main character), her almost retard bestfriend, her sensual "ex" and her sister. The story involves unravelling of a conundrum that will leave you dumstruck and hooked throughout.
ＭＹ ＯＰＩＮＩＯＮ:
I personally LOVED the wiriting style and the flow of the story! Each of the character's arch was completed in the end. Each of the plot twist made sense. Every single page kept me hooked. Being away from home and alone, I totally resonated with Skye as she was wandering alone.
However a little disconnect was felt while reading the thought of Skye and that made a slight downside for me because she is our main character.
But I loved the character of Dylan and literally was able to visualise his psychic behaviour.
ＰＯＩＮＴＳ Ｉ ＬＩＫＥＤ:
💌Great story line
💌Beautiful writing style
💌Stupendous character arch
ＳＵＧＧＥＳＴＩＯＮ:
📍The execution slighyly missed the perfection mark.
𝓑𝓞𝓞𝓚 - Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert
𝓐𝓤𝓣𝓗𝓞𝓡 - Lis Anna- Langston
𝓖𝓔𝓝𝓡𝓔 - Sci-Fi
𝓡𝓐𝓣𝓘𝓝𝓖𝓢 - 3.5/5
ＲＥＶＩＥＷ:
This book is an amazing mystery that is unfolded by Skye (our main character), her almost retard bestfriend, her sensual "ex" and her sister. The story involves unravelling of a conundrum that will leave you dumstruck and hooked throughout.
ＭＹ ＯＰＩＮＩＯＮ:
I personally LOVED the wiriting style and the flow of the story! Each of the character's arch was completed in the end. Each of the plot twist made sense. Every single page kept me hooked. Being away from home and alone, I totally resonated with Skye as she was wandering alone.
However a little disconnect was felt while reading the thought of Skye and that made a slight downside for me because she is our main character.
But I loved the character of Dylan and literally was able to visualise his psychic behaviour.
ＰＯＩＮＴＳ Ｉ ＬＩＫＥＤ:
💌Great story line
💌Beautiful writing style
💌Stupendous character arch
ＳＵＧＧＥＳＴＩＯＮ:
📍The execution slighyly missed the perfection mark.
November 18, 2023
*Wild asses* This book is a symphony of feelings, a masterful blending of tenderness and humor, movement and poignancy, all firmly anchored in love and hope. Weaving through the threads of nostalgia and the warmth of genuine connection, the characters set out on a quest for self-discovery as they negotiate the complex web of relationships. This book stands out for its examination of the poignant issue of going home. When used skillfully by the author, this story mechanism can be made into a lively and original experience that is supported by well-developed characters and lively dialogue. Readers will find great resonance in the relationships depicted in the story since they are brimming with life lessons and vivid realities. Skye's quest for identification, a place to call home, and a sense of belonging is riveting and relatable.
December 12, 2023
I adored reading Lis Anna Langston’s novel, Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert. It is a story that I could easily be able to connect to the characters and feel as though I was part of it. I was instantly able to relate to Skye. I admired her bravery and courage all throughout and watching her grow. I had no problem reading the whole book in one sitting. I thought it was great.
I am giving Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading contemporary fiction. I would love to read more novels like this one from Lis Anna Langston in the near future.
I received a digital copy of Lis Anna Langston’s Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
I am giving Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading contemporary fiction. I would love to read more novels like this one from Lis Anna Langston in the near future.
I received a digital copy of Lis Anna Langston’s Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.
November 29, 2023
Format- Kindle
Pages- 304
"Wild Asses Of The Mojave Desert" by Lis Anna-Langston is YA fictional read.
This is my 2nd read from this author.
The story revolves around Skye (our protagonist), her bestfriend- Dylan & Stella.
The story starts with Skye stuck in a situation where she tries to get away from an unhealthy realtionship with Trevor. Then, Stella, Dylan & Skye discovers something strange yet mysterious. Here, the book introduce us to a twist.
What's the twist about.??? What they discovered.?
Read the book to follow along their journey.
This novel involves friendship, nostalgia & finding oneself. It is poetic, tender & funny. This is an emotional as well as a mysterious tale.
Overall, a smart & engaging novel.
Recommended!!!
Happy Reading!!!
Pages- 304
"Wild Asses Of The Mojave Desert" by Lis Anna-Langston is YA fictional read.
This is my 2nd read from this author.
The story revolves around Skye (our protagonist), her bestfriend- Dylan & Stella.
The story starts with Skye stuck in a situation where she tries to get away from an unhealthy realtionship with Trevor. Then, Stella, Dylan & Skye discovers something strange yet mysterious. Here, the book introduce us to a twist.
What's the twist about.??? What they discovered.?
Read the book to follow along their journey.
This novel involves friendship, nostalgia & finding oneself. It is poetic, tender & funny. This is an emotional as well as a mysterious tale.
Overall, a smart & engaging novel.
Recommended!!!
Happy Reading!!!
January 11, 2024
2.5 stars rounded up to 3.
I struggled with the pacing and language in this novel. Several rimes I found myself re-reading the last few lines because the scene changes so abruptly I wasn’t sure where the characters were anymore. And as another reviewer mentioned, the metaphors and similes were so thick, they began to feel like “word glop,” a phrase the author herself used in the story.
On the flip side, the characters were likable and vibrant. They did, however, lack any real depth and never seemed to consider any consequences. There were also poorly fleshed out characters who popped in and out of the story.
All in all, this is unfortunately not a novel I would recommend.
Thanks to BookSirens for providing me with access to this ebook in exchange for my honest review.
I struggled with the pacing and language in this novel. Several rimes I found myself re-reading the last few lines because the scene changes so abruptly I wasn’t sure where the characters were anymore. And as another reviewer mentioned, the metaphors and similes were so thick, they began to feel like “word glop,” a phrase the author herself used in the story.
On the flip side, the characters were likable and vibrant. They did, however, lack any real depth and never seemed to consider any consequences. There were also poorly fleshed out characters who popped in and out of the story.
All in all, this is unfortunately not a novel I would recommend.
Thanks to BookSirens for providing me with access to this ebook in exchange for my honest review.
August 28, 2023
I love Skye's relationship with Dylan and their humorous conversations. I got stressed out a bit with Skye's character because she doesn't seem to understand other people's feelings, especially Trevor, but I also understand the fact that people deal with things differently and that doesn't make them bad, it just makes them different. I love this book for Skye's existential crisis and for the philosophical conversations between the characters. It made me realize a lot of things about myself, too.
August 28, 2023
This story started with a character who's lost and needs to find herself by escaping. I love the irony. But the fact that she didn't know she would have to deal with a significant moment in her past just made it more engrossing because it's like the universe connived to force her into dealing with her problems instead of always running from it. Loved the plot, the unexpected twist and turns, and the characters. 5/5 and highly recommended.
November 6, 2023
The novel is an absolutely brilliant and sometimes heartbreaking read. With terrible betrayals and suspenseful moments, it really delves into relationships.
A story without compromise as you will notice during the hard hitting moments. The novel also shows how the young girl becomes more primal, raw and attuned to nature over time.
I found the author’s writing is beautiful. I was captivated by the compelling story.
A story without compromise as you will notice during the hard hitting moments. The novel also shows how the young girl becomes more primal, raw and attuned to nature over time.
I found the author’s writing is beautiful. I was captivated by the compelling story.
February 17, 2026
The opening grabbed me right away. A woman driving across the country with mice living in her car is not something you forget. Skye’s return to the low desert of New Mexico feels raw and unpolished in the best way. She is not coming back triumphant. She is broke, tired, and unsure of what she is doing. I liked that the book does not pretend she has it together. The desert setting adds to that exposed feeling. Everything is flat and open, and so is her emotional state. It feels honest.
February 18, 2026
Dylan is the kind of character who could have been written as a joke, but he is not. Yes, he tracks strange lights in the sky and keeps rope on a table for reasons that make sense only to him. But underneath the odd behavior, there is loyalty. He shows up and that matters a lot. His trailer in the desert, the lawn chairs, the telescope, all of it paints a very specific picture of someone searching for meaning in unconventional ways. This has been a nice read overall.
February 18, 2026
Stella feels like the emotional anchor of the story, even when she is swearing or rolling her eyes. Her tough exterior hides sharp insight. The scenes between her and Skye are some of the strongest because they feel like real sister conversations, full of old history and unfinished arguments. The detail about her cowboy boots being basically part of her identity stuck with me. She is blunt, sometimes harsh, but she is not wrong. That balance makes her believable.
February 18, 2026
Trevor’s presence adds tension that never tips into melodrama. You can feel the history between him and Skye in small details, like how she notices the curve of a tattoo or the way he says certain words. It is not overexplained. Their shared past is woven through casual memories which made it feel more authentic to me. Sometimes the most powerful parts are just two people standing in the desert, not saying everything out loud. Full 5 stars for me.
February 18, 2026
One thing I liked is how the book balances humor with heavier themes. There are genuinely funny moments, like offhand comments in the kitchen or sarcastic exchanges about reality and jobs but the humor never undercuts the emotional weight. Skye’s uncertainty about her future, her failed relationship, and her return home are all treated with care. The tone feels conversational, so this book was easy to read despite some heavy themes. Overall, I’m giving it 5 out of 5 stars.
February 18, 2026
The small details make this book stand out. Mice building nests in the trunk, jellybeans being sorted by color, dirty coffee cups in a kitchen at four in the morning. These are not dramatic plot points, but they create texture. You get a sense of lived in spaces and complicated lives. It feels very honest. Even when the story brushes up against bigger questions about fate or reality, it stays anchored in everyday moments.
February 18, 2026
The conversations about reality, meaning, and wanting something more could have turned preachy, but they did not. They come out naturally in arguments, late night talks, and sarcastic remarks. You can feel that all of them are wrestling with where they ended up versus where they thought they would be. It is less about big answers and more about that restless feeling of being stuck at a crossroads.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews