ISBN: 0-7927-2524-7 Order from: Amazon.com
Colorful and frequently witty, with a self-indulgent yet sympathetic protagonist and interesting surrounding characters, provide plenty of amusement but not much of deep engagement.
Reviewed by David on November 18, 2005
Genre: Mystery
Synopsis: Archy McNally, the self-indulgent and easy-going son of an affluent—and influential—attorney in Palm Beach, serves as an errand boy and occasional investigator for his father's firm. Tasked with the investigation of a theft from one of his father's wealthiest clients, Archy digs into the murky field of the truly rich and their hangers-on. Soon, however, Archy's capable if lazy intellect that hides beneath his playboy exterior is challenged as the theft escalates to murder.
Full Review: The book is full of characters realistic, yet with a tinge of dramatic exaggeration. They are generally likable and amusing, as is Archy himself, who serves as a sympathetic narrator—self-indulgent and self-deprecating at once.
The slick, sunny ennvironment of Southern Florida and the wealthy society that populates it presents a pleasant background for the semi-serious investigation.
The flaw of this book is that with all the humor, there is not that much emotional pull for the narrator, or any of the characters. One is left pleased with the acquaintance, but not compelled to revisit.
Sources: Amazon.com|0425135721, BarnesAndNoble.com|0425135721, Amazon.com|0792725247
Overall: 5.5; Plot: 5.5; Characters: 6; Style: 6; World-building: 4.5; Originality: 5.5;
Copyright date 1992, Chivers (Chivers Sound Library), 2002, Audio Cassette, 6 cassettes
ISBN: 0-7927-2524-7 Order from: Amazon.com