When the Women Come out to Dance by Elmore Leonard Search Amazon for other books by or about Elmore Leonard. Rating: Reviewed by: John Walsh

Nine more slices of life from one of the best stylists of modern American fiction mean this is an excellent read that is highly recommended. As in most of Leonard country, we are in the presence of people variously trapped or afflicted by partial success and past compromises. From the native Indian American who spent a career in professional baseball but only ever once pitched in a Major League game (in the World Series, though), to the rodeo champion who now makes a living as a Hollywood stuntperson to the many others whose achievements never quite manage to balance out the bills that have had to be paid. Ben Webster, the bull-rider turned stuntperson is emblematic of the whole range of Leonard's cast of characters. The most important person in his life has been his grandfather Carl Webster, who filled his head with various kinds of nonsense, from mythology about his own life to religious beliefs to the idea that all the women in the family are somehow cursed or, more accurately, that the menfolk are unlucky with women. They attract them, one way or another, but then they disappear, die or in some other way are withdrawn. There are happy endings in some stories but only for those wise enough to keep at least one eye open for future obstacles.

The stories range from the investigation into a possible arson, the struggle of a black man who has served his country in two wars to avoid constant harassment from white racists, the ability of a serving woman with connections to solve problems of unwanted persons. Crime, longing and alcohol are mixed in the search for the American dream of the pursuit of happiness. Alas, the path offering the pursuit of happiness for many people in Leonard's universe depends upon oppressing others. This means that conflict is inevitable and often means that only a desperate conclusion can be possible.

However, readers familiar with Elmore Leonard's work will be likely to agree that it his dialogue that regularly delights most commonly: "'Did you see Boyd?' 'I told him he has to come in tomorrow. Boyd blew up a church in Cincinnati and we have a witness who'll take a look at him.' 'Well, that was quick. Boy, you work fast,' Ava said, raising he eyebrows up at him. 'And I oughta know.'"

Leonard has some fun playing with characters from other stories and including a few sly references to other work but there is no need to have read anything else by him in order to enjoy this splendid collection.