“The Bluebird House: The Mining Mess” by Rae Ellen Lee is a novel set in a former mining camp in Montana. The protagonist, Molly, reassesses her life after a nearly fatal encounter with a moose and a close brush with middle age. She decides to end her stale marriage and move to the Bluebird House, an old bordello in the mining camp, which she buys for the price of a used car.
Molly, the central character, is joined by other key figures in the story, including her ex-husband and the quirky residents of the mining camp. The central conflict revolves around Molly’s efforts to transform the Bluebird House and navigate the complexities of her new life. She faces various challenges, from financial struggles to personal growth and dealing with the eccentric characters she meets along the way.
Significant events include Molly’s initial decision to move to the Bluebird House, her encounters with the local wildlife and townspeople, and her efforts to renovate the old bordello. These events are crucial as they highlight Molly’s journey of self-discovery and adaptation to her new environment. The story emphasizes themes of resilience, community, and personal reinvention as Molly strives to create a new life for herself in the backdrop of Montana’s rugged landscape.
