Reviews

Gil's All Fright Diner by A. Lee Martinez

mborer23's review against another edition

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4.0

This book was recommended to me, and I really enjoyed it. I wasn't thrilled with the characterization of Loretta, which relied a bit too much on fat jokes, but the characters were otherwise well drawn and interesting. Vampire Earl and werewolf Duke's sometimes-uneasy camaraderie rings true, and the situation they find themselves in features a sort of Lovecraftian pastiche that's more loving homage than rip-off.

Bonus points, of course, for setting the story in my native land of Texas. Very disappointed that the animated feature of this work has apparently fallen through, and also that Martinez doesn't do sequels, but neither of those facts detracts from this story. A fun, quick read that I recommend to anyone who likes humor with their horror.

mysticpagemage's review against another edition

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adventurous funny fast-paced

4.0

It was fun and light hearted with enough paranormal to make a macabre girl happy.

blobaglob's review against another edition

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funny relaxing fast-paced
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.5

dh898's review against another edition

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adventurous funny fast-paced

4.0

mosscraftink's review against another edition

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The fatphobia going so hard so quickly. I've never DNFd a book so fast.

This was not for me

basharria's review against another edition

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3.0

An enjoyable, swiftly paced, campy supernatural romp. Despite a flippant, humorous tone, it remains remarkably consistent about its setting. The overall simplicity of the narrative becomes a strength. Coupled with some good humor and character writing, it's a fun, though not spectacular ride.

While our principal characters are enjoyable and well-realized, the book is hampered by its treatment of certain supporting characters. It's clear that mid-2000s comedy sensibilities have aged quite poorly. Loretta, the heavy-set proprietor of the eponymous diner, is treated like a freakish monstrosity--her weight and all of her "jiggling folds" are repeatedly described and despite a sweet disposition she's treated as disgusting. Paired with this is Tammy, our villain, who is a lustful seventeen year old girl. The narrative is obsessed with sexualizing her and peppering the book with many uncomfortable passages. It reflects poorly on the author. I'm curious to see if his later works have matured past this, and if he feels dismayed by his freshman choices.

galaxy_dallas's review against another edition

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4.0

Great read. Lots of humor, kind of a redneck paranormal. Quick-paced page turner. Heard it was in the works for a movie.

cdisweird's review against another edition

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4.0

I'm not sure why I waited so long to.read something by A. Lee Martinez, but I'm glad I finally did! This was a very fun read, and now a new favorite author of mine! Zombie cows, ghost dogs, and a fat werewolf who's best friend is a balding vampire? Fantastic! I can't wait to read more!

8ekka's review against another edition

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funny lighthearted fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

bookswithbets's review against another edition

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adventurous dark funny fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0