Book Review: "Six Weeks in Reno" by Lucy H. Hedrick
From the moment I stumbled upon Lucy H. Hedrick’s debut novel, Six Weeks in Reno, I was captivated. Set against the rugged backdrop of 1930s Nevada, the book offers a deep dive into the complexities of a woman’s desire for autonomy during a time when societal expectations loomed large. The idea of Reno as America’s “Divorce Colony” sat so intriguing with me; it’s a bold and often overlooked piece of history that invites exploration. What drew me in further was the promise of a protagonist not just seeking a divorce but embarking on a journey of self-reclamation.
At its heart, Six Weeks in Reno tells the story of Evelyn Henderson, a 39-year-old woman who, fed up with her stifling marriage, leaves her life in Hackensack, New Jersey, for the sunny yet harsh landscape of Reno. With a twenty-year marriage to a man who has long since given up on himself, Evelyn’s journey to the Flying N Ranch marks both an ending and a beginning. Hedrick’s richly built world is populated with a colorful cast of “six-weekers,” each with their reasons for seeking freedom. Through Evelyn’s eyes, we experience not just her transformation but the radical atmosphere of the “wild west,” contrasting starkly with her East Coast upbringing. I found this juxtaposition fascinating—how a place could simultaneously evoke feelings of liberation and trepidation.
Hedrick’s attention to historical detail is commendable. The regular reminders of the Great Depression, coupled with the societal norms surrounding divorce, paint a vivid tapestry of the era. The dialogue is peppered with the nuances of 1930s speech, making Evelyn’s transition from a judgmental woman to someone who learns to value character over societal expectations feel both authentic and relatable.
What truly struck me was the depth of character development. The supporting characters—like the brave Madeline, the calculating Thistlena, and the tragic Beatrice—each bring their own stories and complexities to the table. The paths they cross with Evelyn not only deepen her own journey but offer thought-provoking insights into themes such as liberation, loneliness, and self-determination. One quote that resonated deeply with me is when Evelyn reflects on her newfound freedom: "I am now unfettered to set goals for myself beyond the restrictions of my family’s, or husband’s, rules." It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of carving one’s path.
Yet, no novel is without its critiques. While many of the plot twists are both witty and gripping, some coincidences felt stretched, particularly the investment subplot involving Thistlena. There were moments where I wished for a deeper dive into certain character motivations, like the underdeveloped exploration of Dean’s complexities in relation to his wife’s choices.
Overall, Hedrick’s prose flows beautifully, capturing both the beauty and harshness of Nevada’s landscape. The pacing felt well-balanced, bringing me along for the ride while delivering measured introspection.
Six Weeks in Reno is a gem for those who appreciate historical fiction, particularly centered around strong, nuanced female characters. It educates while entertaining, and perhaps more importantly, it invites us to reconsider the age-old question of what it means to be free in a world filled with judgment and expectation. Through Evelyn’s journey, we’re reminded that sometimes, to find ourselves, we first have to lose everything we thought defined us. This novel has certainly left an imprint on my heart, one that urges me to boldly write my own story, just like Evelyn. If you’re looking for an empowering narrative rich in historical context, Hedrick’s debut is not to be missed!