The Answer Man

Rating:
Summary: The question is why...
Review: Contrary to one reviewer's comment that techniques to beat a lie detector were revealed in this book, they weren't. Which is a shame because then it might have been worth reading. I managed to drag myself to page 185 where my interest finally died. It wasn't an unexpected death, however; it had been bed-ridden for some time.

It's rare to come across such two-dimensional characters in a multiple-star book. I had to keep reminding myself what good old Ken's name was and "Ken" is just not that hard.

I tend to read in cycles and I've been in my mystery period for a few months now. If you must read "The Answer Man" (which provides no answer to the question of why so many reviewers found it interesting), I would suggest you do so after you've exhausted Robert Crais (all of the Elvis Cole books in order), Dennis Lehane (all five Patrick Kenzie books in order), Michael Connelly's "Void Moon" (and perhaps his others, which I haven't read yet), Robert Ferrigno's "Heartbreaker" and perhaps all of the Janet Evanovich and Lee Child books.

"The Answer Man" was written by a screenwriter and this is a straight-to-video effort.

Rating:
Summary: A little paranoia in this book is a good thing
Review: I suppose that a cool, rational look at the plot "The Answer Man" would show that it all very, very unlikely -- but who reads suspense thrillers for cool, rational analysis? This is definitely a book that keeps you turning the pages and which provides plenty of surprises. Almost nobody does what you expect him or her to do, and a lesson quickly learned is to trust no one. In fact, any character in this book must live by the rule that a little paranoia is a good thing, and a lot of paranoia is even better.

Rating:
Summary: A little paranoia in this book is a good thing
Review: I suppose that a cool, rational look at the plot "The Answer Man" would show that it all very, very unlikely -- but who reads suspense thrillers for cool, rational analysis? This is definitely a book that keeps you turning the pages and which provides plenty of surprises. Almost nobody does what you expect him or her to do, and a lesson quickly learned is to trust no one. In fact, any character in this book must live by the rule that a little paranoia is a good thing, and a lot of paranoia is even better.

Rating:
Summary: future johansen junkie
Review: I've been reading all of this year's Anthony and Shamus Award nominees, and "The Answer Man" is one of my most pleasant discoveries in the bunch. There's suspense, humor and clever plot twists, plus some very involving moments concerning a man's efforts to beat a polygraph. The characters were people I enjoyed spending time with, which is one of my main requirements for a good novel. Highly recommended!

Rating:
Summary: "The Answer Man" is captivating and makes you want more!!!
Review: Roy Johansen's "The Answer Man" is a story that grabs your attention and holds you captive until the very end! The characters are well thought-out and deveolped, with very interesting backgrounds. Just when you think you know where the plot will take you next, BAM!, Mr. Johansen takes you in a totally different direction! I love that in a story! I want to read more, especially about Hound Dog's interesting hobby. Maybe a sequel???