L.A. Requiem

Rating:
Summary: Very good, but I hope that Crais is capable of more
Review: There is a lot to like about this book, and it is certainly better than most. But something about Crais' voice occasionally doesn't ring quite true, and keeps him from being one of my absolute favorites. I love certain aspects of Pike's character, and he grew on me to the point where I liked almost everything about him, but his reliance on sunglasses makes him weaker, in my eyes. It is that kind of touch, that phony macho touch, that compensating for inadequacy type of thing, that keeps Crais from greatness in too much of this book. Still, strongly recommended, because it is very good, and reaches greatness at times (Pike's adolescent flashback, etc).

Rating:
Summary: Incredible Journey of Joe Pike
Review: If a book can be beautiful then L.A. Requiem is it. Mr. Crais uses a murdering spee in L.A. as a backdrop to the inner workings of Joe Pike. This author is not only a terrific storyteller but a master at character development. I really can't think of a sidekick in modern fiction that has more depth than Joe Pike. The plot weaves the current case that Elvis and Joe are working on with pivotal moments from Joe's past. We now begin to understand this most enigmatic character. Brilliant writing. Finally, the loyalty and trust of Elvis and his friend are tested and stretched to the limit. Simply the best novel of the series.