Blood on the Moon : Book Review

"Blood on the Moon" is a thrilling crime novel by acclaimed author James Ellroy, set in 1940s Los Angeles. It follows the interconnected lives of three complex characters: Sergeant Malcolm "Mal" Kellough, a corrupt cop haunted by his past; Danny Upshaw, a determined young detective searching for the truth; and Kay Lake, a seductive woman trapped in a web of lies. As they delve into the dark underbelly of Los Angeles, their paths intertwine in a tale of murder, corruption, and redemption.

Ellroy's writing style is hard-hitting and intense, capturing the gritty atmosphere of post-war L.A. His raw prose immerses readers in the city's dark and violent nature, keeping them on the edge of their seats as the suspense builds with each turn of the page.

What truly sets "Blood on the Moon" apart is Ellroy's meticulous attention to detail in portraying the era. The author paints a vivid picture of 1940s Los Angeles, from the fashion and music to the political climate. This historical accuracy enriches the story, making it even more immersive and believable.

The characters in the novel are memorable and multi-dimensional, each driven by their own motivations and flaws. They grapple with their pasts, making choices that have far-reaching consequences. The exploration of human nature and the duality of good and evil are recurring themes throughout the book.

Overall, "Blood on the Moon" is a captivating crime thriller that will delight fans of the genre. With its gripping storyline, compelling characters, and masterful writing, James Ellroy once again proves why he is a master of the genre. Anyone who picks up this novel will be swept away into the dark and fascinating world of 1940s Los Angeles, yearning for more.

What are readers saying?

The reception of James Ellroy's "Blood on the Moon" among readers has been diverse, with differing opinions on the novel's merits. As part of Ellroy's "L.A. Quartet" series, the book delves into the gritty and shadowy atmosphere of 1950s Los Angeles.

Many readers praised Ellroy's writing style, applauding his ability to vividly depict the city during that era. The book was often lauded for its gripping and suspenseful plot, captivating readers from beginning to end. The atmospheric descriptions of post-war Los Angeles received high praise for immersing readers in the city's seedy underbelly.

On the other hand, some readers found "Blood on the Moon" too dark and violent. The explicit and disturbing content made it a challenging read for them. Furthermore, these readers felt that the graphic nature of the story overshadowed the overall plot and character development. Some criticism was also directed at the inconsistent pacing, citing slower sections that disrupted the story's flow.

A few readers expressed disappointment with the characters, particularly the main protagonist, Detective Sergeant Lloyd Hopkins. They found him to be unlikable and lacking depth. This lack of connection with the characters hindered their enjoyment of the book.

Despite these mixed reactions, many readers still found "Blood on the Moon" thrilling and atmospheric. They appreciated the historical accuracy and the immersive experience of being transported to 1950s Los Angeles. Ellroy's distinctive writing style, along with his ability to create a dark and gritty atmosphere, were highlights for many readers.

BloodOnTheMoon ThrillerReads MustRead