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mcf's review
5.0
I enjoyed this a lot, not just because it ticks a lot of my boxes (gangster-related, period piece, vaguely hard-boiled, aware of race), but because it ticks them well. The writing and characterizations possess a complexity that those who turn their noses up at 'genre fiction' don't believe exists in that world (because, you know, they've never looked), and the book's unflinching exploration of race -- told through the eyes of a mixed-race man so light he sometimes passes -- are well-observed, cutting, and rueful. Finally, Elliot is a great character: troubled, thoughtful, and to the point in his messy life where he suddenly feels vulnerable in moments through which he used to blaze with fiery confidence. He and the motley team that has gathered him around him are a group of whom I'm looking forward to seeing more.
radballen's review
5.0
What a fantastic addition to the post World War II noir genre! Great story line, well drawn characters, addictive reading, and an honest dose of the realism of 1950s style racism that plagued America. Danny Gardner does a brilliant job with Elliot Caprice portraying the complicated world of a light-skinned biracial military vet coming back to the world after the war. So glad I discovered this book. Highly recommended.
cmleejim's review
3.0
Elliot Caprece is such a smooth character with rough edges. I loved his style and how he handled himself throughout but I have to say I was slightly disappointed or misunderstood aspects of the story. That may be because I took a long hiatus in the middle of it but I never felt the urge to rush back. All in all I am excited for the sequel which I already own as well.
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