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modestmatt's review against another edition
dark
funny
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
This was picked up at a used bookstore from a recent trip to Tucson, purchased purely because of the cover. The novel follows Peter Brown - a physician who used to be a mobster, now part of the witness protection program. We follow his story as he treats a current mobster who recognizes him and simultaneously follow flashbacks from his past that tell how he ended up where he is today. Initially I hated his character, and I never really became more than luke-warm on him, but the story itself was engaging and quick to get through. It’s a fun mob story, with some truly disgusting scenes (in terms of gore), but the writing feels a little shallow at times and my main problem is they essentially make Peter a superhero in the feats he is able to accomplish throughout the story. For the most part it feels grounded, but then every other chapter Peter will do some action hero stunt that takes me out of it. If it was only one or two instances that would be one thing, but it happens too often and feels at odds with the rest of the story. With all that being said this was a worthwhile read, sarcastic throughout, easy to want to keep reading to find out what happens next, but a little like a summer blockbuster following the hero character who is above the other mortals in both physical capability and mental sharpness. Not a bad thing, but it is the overall feeling I was left with.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Body horror and Blood
Minor: Animal cruelty and Animal death