Crais backs away from so much wiseguy stuff in subsequent
novels; and also away from all the reference to movies/tv.
Thank goodness, since most of us prefer to keep Trivial
Pursuit separate from our reading. With all the
referentiality, however, I was disappointed that Crais
couldn't transform LA into the land of hyperreal. After
having read several more (butnot the much praised LA
REquium), I no longer expect him to be able to do much with
the feel of LA--the way Ellroy or Pelecanos or Block can do
with their chosen cities.
He's good with his plotlines--which typically involve going
against an organization, the big shootout, empowerment or
attempted empowerment of a woman who needs it,and,most
amazingly, absolutely no legal repercussions. Nice world to
live in, if you can kick, chop, and shoot quickly.
I like Free Fall, for the sense of loss when certain
characters die, but thought Voodoo River stretched
credibility. Crais shouldn't try to "go home" to little La.
again.
Bill Hagen
billha@ionet.net
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