Laramie; or, The Queen of Bedlam.   By: Charles King (1844-1933)

Laramie; or, The Queen of Bedlam is a captivating historical fiction novel written by Charles King. Set against the backdrop of the American frontier in the late 19th century, this book takes readers on an exhilarating journey filled with adventure, romance, and treachery.

The story primarily revolves around the enigmatic character of Laramie, a fearless woman who becomes the notorious Queen of Bedlam. From the very beginning, King skillfully establishes an air of mystery around Laramie, drawing readers in with her complex personality and intriguing backstory. As the narrative unfolds, we witness Laramie's evolution from a young and innocent girl to a strong-willed and determined woman, defying societal expectations and taking control of her own destiny.

One of the most impressive aspects of this book is King's ability to vividly portray the atmosphere of the Wild West. Through his rich descriptions, readers are transported to the untamed landscapes of Wyoming, where danger lurks around every corner. The author's attention to detail is commendable, creating a believable and immersive world that becomes the perfect backdrop for the characters' adventures.

Speaking of characters, King does an exceptional job of crafting a cast that is diverse, multi-dimensional, and utterly compelling. From the charismatic outlaws to the hardened lawmen, each individual is brought to life with their unique traits, desires, and flaws. Despite their conflicting goals, the interactions between these characters are expertly written, resulting in gripping conflicts and unexpected alliances.

Furthermore, the romance element in Laramie; or, The Queen of Bedlam adds an extra layer of depth to the narrative. The love story that blossoms between Laramie and a rugged cowboy named Jackson is both tender and passionate. Their chemistry is palpable, their love tumultuous, and their destinies intertwined in a way that keeps readers invested in their fate until the very end.

While the plot of the novel is fast-paced and engrossing, there are moments where the story could have benefited from additional development or exploration. Some subplots feel slightly rushed, and certain character arcs remain unresolved or underdeveloped. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book.

In conclusion, Laramie; or, The Queen of Bedlam is a captivating tale that seamlessly combines the thrill of the Wild West with a compelling love story and a cast of unforgettable characters. Charles King's masterful storytelling transports readers to a bygone era, immersing them in the untamed landscapes and passionate emotions of the time. Despite a few minor shortcomings, this novel is a worthy addition to any historical fiction lover's bookshelf.

First Page:

The snow had gone from all the foot hills and had long since disappeared in the broad river bottom. It was fast going from the neighboring mountains, too both the streams told plainly of that, for while the Platte rolled along in great, swift surges under the Engineer Bridge, its smaller tributary the "Larmie," as the soldiers called it came brawling and foaming down its stony bed and sweeping around the back of the fort with a wild vehemence that made some of the denizens of the south end decidedly nervous. The rear windows of the commanding officer's house looked out upon a rushing torrent, and where the surgeon lived, at the south west angle, the waters lashed against the shabby old board fence that had been built in by gone days, partly to keep the children and chickens from tumbling into the stream when the water was high, partly to keep out marauding coyotes when the water was low... Continue reading book >>