Reviews

The Ice Man: Confessions Of A Mafia Contract Killer by Philip Carlo

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charlesrop's review against another edition

5.0

I feel a little duped by this book, but in the best way possible. When I read it as a teenaged mongrel, I found Kuklinski to be a sympathetic character. An unrepentent murderer, yes, but also a victim of racial and class hatred which limited his prospects. An abuser, but also a victim of trauma and abuse which stunted his capacity for human warmth. He was hideous to me, but he was also vulnerable. Carlo put a lot of effort into his interviews for this book, and the result seems to be a novel-length insight into a tender friendship between two thoughtful and unashamed men. There's even something cathartic to Kuklinski's words: "if I had the choice, I think I would have liked to be someone different to what I am". Holy crap, who hasn't felt like that?

Anyway, I got older. Now I often wonder if this 'sensitive meathead' Tony Soprano act was all the psychopath's trick. On Carlo, and on us. Into thinking he might have a heart, or that he might not deserve to die. Like Ted Bundy on death row, blaming all his action on pornography. Trying to eschew the blame one last time. I think I fell for it. Worse, I think Carlo fell for it, too.

This book still amazes me despite the metatextual mind games. Perhaps even because of them; because the message, the world view, is so neatly delivered. Nothing seems to have been lost in transcription.

A powerful portrait, but probably not in the way the author intended.

mklinkenborg's review against another edition

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dark informative slow-paced

3.5

thewordeater's review against another edition

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3.0

I was actually surprised with how much I got into this book. Then again, I have this weird fascination with crime tales and The Mafia. The only thing that kind of sucks is according the FBI, Richard Kuklinksi is a liar. Particularly his alleged involvement in the murder of Roy DeMeo. But, whatever. Good read, nonetheless. 3.5 stars.

maxac32's review against another edition

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5.0

This book is easily in my top 3 favorite books of all time. I will read anything Philip Carlo writes. I convinced so many people to read this book even though it wasn't a normal read for them and they LOVED it. Philip Carlo is the king of true crime.