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cherub__'s review against another edition
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Maltese Falcon is efficient. Hammett doesn't use three words when one will do, very little that is not explicitly necessary to the plot is described in any detail, dialogue is kept to a strict minimum until the very end, and descriptions of different characters are often repeated as though points were awarded for using the a smaller set of words. Oddly, the efficiency lends a force of personality to each character in a way more verbose descriptions did not; I found myself picturing the same word or phrase slightly differently each time due to the surrounding context, but each repetition burned the overall impression more clearly into my mind. I found the reveal at the end somewhat predictable, but my enjoyment of the climax was not lessened by it.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Toxic relationship, Gun violence, and Murder
Minor: Misogyny
greatexpectations77's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
It was fun to read an author that was at the beginning of the super jerk detective novels that predated the whole film noir genre. But whew, were women just objects that could take a few calls for you and be available for you to harass. I probably won't read this author again, but I feel like I learned where the genre came from, and that's something. I'll see the movie. Also god is this man obsessed with writing about eyes. The writing style is definitely different than expected. I like more interiority to my characters.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcohol, Body shaming, Fatphobia, and Toxic relationship
Moderate: Blood, Death, Emotional abuse, Gun violence, Injury/Injury detail, Infidelity, Misogyny, Murder, Bullying, Sexism, Toxic friendship, and Violence
Minor: Police brutality, Sexual content, Gaslighting, Grief, Homophobia, and Racism
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