Judging from the reviews of GOING DARK, it’s clear that critics are welcoming an escape to sunny Florida this December! As the Sacramento Bee says, “High adventure in the sun – what’s not to like?” See what other lovely things people are saying about James W. Hall’s new book after the jump!
In their starred review, Publishers Weekly calls the book “both thoughtful and white-knuckle tense.”
Booklist says, “Hall is one of those rare thriller writers who can build character as he ratchets tension, who can do no-holds-barred action scenes with panache and, in the midst of bedlam, never lose sight of nuance. All those skills are on display here, as Hall assembles a full-bodied supporting cast whose stories hold our interest as much as Thorn’s attempt to save his son without helping to bring about a South Florida version of Chernobyl. A fine thriller on every level.”
According to NPR, “James W. Hall makes a plot that wrings the most suspense and emotion out of this material, from the effect on Thorn’s private life to the danger lurking for all Miami and South Florida,” adding, “What else can I say without spoiling the book for you? The novel’s finale will have most readers holding on for dear life.”
Library Journal says, “Like fellow Floridian Carl Hiassen, Hall displays a love of his home state’s landscape with criticism of the greed that threatens it, plus a fondness for unpredictable characters. Like an Arthurian knight, his protagonist ventures out of his small world just long enough to put things right in a larger one. Luckily for readers, there will be no shortage of opportunities requiring Thorn’s next appearance.”
“In Going Dark, Hall continues his high standards for gripping, action-packed plots that revolve around Florida’s intricate ecology and beauty,” says the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
“Going Dark has cinematic action all the way through and a couple of fine surprises saved for the final few pages. Nicely done, indeed,” proclaims BookPage.
Kirkus Reviews says, “With its nicely observed characters and lively dialogue—and terrific sex scenes—it keeps readers turning the pages.”
“There is no more delightful companion for a habitual reader than a new book by James W. Hall,” declares the Naples Florida Weekly.
The Tampa Bay Times says, “Going Dark, the 13th in the series, is one of his very best, a breathless thrill ride with a brain — and heart.”
“For those who enjoy a good steely-jawed mystery man, here’s a new Thorn novel from James W. Hall. If you’ve ever daydreamed of living off the land in a beachfront shack, Thorn’s life might be a nice getaway for you,” says the Charlotte Observer. “If you like your mysteries macho and enjoy some Florida scenery into the bargain, this one’s for you.”
The Florida Times-Union states, “Another first-class page-turner from the master of mystery.”
If you’ve made it through all of these reviews, it’s probably safe to assume you’re a Thorn fan, so we’re pleased to let you know that you can see James W. Hall read tonight at Inkwood Books in Tampa, tomorrow night at Bookstore1Sarasota, and on Saturday at Haslam’s Book Store in St. Petersburg. Please check Jim’s website for more details and future appearances.
