“An exceptional book…. The novel is outstanding in every regard — writing, plot, dialogue, suspense, humor, a vivid sense of place.” – The Washington Post
“High, dry and severely beautiful…. Anderson is one fine storyteller.” - Marilyn Stasio, New York Times Book Review
“James Anderson’s first novel works on elements of mirage — a mystery novel with literary shimmers. In the end it is all there, apparent in the high heat of the desert: a great story, well-told, funny, daring, smart and deeply affecting.” —Colum McCann, National Book Award-winning author of Let the Great World Spin
“James Anderson has written a striking debut novel —lyrical, whimsical, atmospheric and skillfully rendered.” – CJ Box, New York Times Bestselling author of Badlands
“You have not read a book like The Never Open Desert Diner in a long time, if ever. Once you open its pages you will know you are in for something surprisingly enjoyable. James Anderson and his premiere novel are a serendipity that will make a mark on your brain in the most positive way.” – Jackie Cooper, The Huffington Post
“An extraordinary debut.” – Milwaukee Sun-Sentinel
“Anderson … writes with a lyrical style and allows the plot to unfold in a manner as seductive as the desert itself. Readers who revel in fiction set in the Southwest will want to join his protagonist for the ride.” – Library Journal
“Anderson distills the heat and shimmering haze of the Utah desert into his fine first novel.” – Publishers Weekly
“Part love story, part mystery, part meditation on place, James Anderson’s The Never-Open Desert Diner is peopled with quirky characters and peppered with fine prose that has the taste of truth. Anderson’s abundant talents will certainly keep readers turning the pages.” — Roland Merullo, author of Breakfast With Buddha
