Jess Walter's The Cold Millions is lauded for its vivid portrayal of early 20th-century America, balancing social issues with compelling characters. Critics praise its historical depth and engaging prose. Some note a slow narrative pace and predictability in plot. Overall, it is celebrated for rich storytelling and emotional resonance.

Readers who enjoy compelling historical fiction with strong social commentary will find Jess Walter's The Cold Millions captivating. Fans of John Steinbeck's The Grapes of Wrath or E.L. Doctorow's Ragtime will appreciate its vivid storytelling and exploration of class struggle and labor movements in early 20th-century America.

The Cold Millions by Jess Walter follows brothers Rye and Gig Dolan, who become entangled in the Spokane free speech riots of 1909 and 1910 as they navigate conflicts with local police and involvement with the Industrial Workers of the World labor union, exploring themes of wealth disparity, unionism, and solidarity in early 20th-century America. This novel portrays the use of derogatory language against unhoused people, police violence, alcohol use disorder, and the abuse and exploitation of incarcerated people.

Gritty / Suspenseful / Emotional / Challenging

- The Cold Millions by Jess Walter was inspired by real historical events in Spokane, Washington, particularly the 1909 Free Speech Fight, where workers clashed with authorities over free speech rights.
- Jess Walter infuses the novel with fictional and real historical figures, weaving in characters like Elizabeth Gurley Flynn, a prominent labor leader who was known for her activism at a young age.
- In crafting The Cold Millions, Jess Walter explores themes of class disparity and social justice, drawing on his background as a journalist to instill a sense of authenticity and detailed realism in the setting and characters.

**Ryan “Rye” Dolan**  
The primary protagonist and central point-of-view character, Rye navigates the challenges of his world starting at age 16, beginning with several temporary jobs and ultimately embracing literature and becoming involved in labor organizing.

**Early Reston**  
The primary antagonist whose anarchist actions steer the plot's conflict, initially aligning himself with Rye and his brother before his true violent intentions are revealed.

**Gregory “Gig” Dolan**  
Rye's charismatic older brother who is well-read and passionate about theater, forming strong connections with unions but also battling personal demons that affect his decisions throughout the story.

**Elizabeth Gurley Flynn**  
A headstrong union organizer and sidekick to Rye based on a real-life historical figure, whose compassion and advocacy for workers make a lasting impression on him.

**Lemuel Brand**  
A mining baron and secondary antagonist who employs others to orchestrate public conflicts and tries to manipulate people around him to achieve his goals, revealing flaws in his supposed mastery.

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Prologue-Part 1

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Part 3, Chapters 19-24

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Part 3, Chapter 25-Interlude 8

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Part 4-Epilogue

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