Gumshoe: Reflections in a Private Eye

Rating:
Summary: At last, a real account of a private eye
Review: A very interesting and informative read about one of the most misunderstood professions ever. Thompson takes us through some typical days of a modern private detective and soon we realize the old stereotype of a seedy office, bottle of bourbon, fast fists, and a Colt .45 belongs strictly in a '40's detective movie. Thompson points out that the computer is the "weapon" of choice now and it is the staple of the profession. Information gathering is what a detective is paid for and by networking with other computer users and agencies they carve out a living. If you want glamour and excitement, watch an old Bogie black and white. But if you want a true and factual account of what a private eye does and how they work then read this.

Rating:
Summary: Read if you want to be bored!
Review: When I saw this title, I thought, WOW! However, once I started reading, I realized I had made a mistake. It took me three weeks to read (do to falling asleep from the constant droning of the author). If you can avoid reading this, good for you. If you want to read about detectives, realize that this profession is mostly dull (this is from experience) and spend your money on something else.