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Review title: Worth reading for the Johnny McGinnes character alone
Product review: Given that this is the author's first book and that it might not be quite as polished as later work, should you read this book? My answer is: yes, definitely. In fact, I'd recommend that you read this as your second Pelecanos book. I'd recommend The Big Blowdown as your first because it is set in an earlier period. There are some key characters in this book who show up in later works and I would have enjoyed having read this for background about them.Generally, this book has the standard qualities I love in this author's work - gritty crime stories, interesting characters and great scene development. Besides that, this book would be worth reading for the Johnny McGinnes character alone. He's a sidekick rather than a main player, but he is one wild and crazy and hugely entertaining guy. Check him and this book out if you like crime fiction. I don't think you'll be disappointed.
