The book channels Frank Capra’s screwball comedies ... Johnson spins a madcap plot with more twists than a Tiffany braided gold choker ... Johnson carefully sets up her punchlines, often with physical comedy, including ridiculous masquerade costumes and mistaken identities ... there is a delightful sense of closure in the way Johnson wraps up this shiny package, which arrives just after New Year’s like a late holiday gift.
In the wonderful, sweet Better Luck Next Time, a much older Ward recounts his time at the Flying Leap Dude Ranch to an unknown listener, whose identity is revealed at the end of the book ... Johnson follows up her hilarious first book, Be Frank With Me, with this more serious—but still witty and charming—offering. She paints a vivid picture of a hot, dry Reno summer during which women wait to see whether their luck has run out or is just beginning ... a story that will stay with you for a long time.
[An] engrossing portrait of 1930s Reno, pulling in larger-than-life characters inspired by historical records ... Fans of Naomi Wood, Laura Madeleine, and Nicole Meier will adore this witty and charming slice of life.
Johnson’s rollicking comedy (after Be Frank With Me) sizzles, thanks to the immensely appealing voice of its aging narrator ... This brims with the clever banter and farcical situations of a classic Capra film, and is deepened by dramatic scenes and portrayals of the hardworking ranchers. Johnson’s novel soars.
