Charles Willeford Omnibus: Pick Up/Burnt Orange Heresy/Cockfighter : Book Review

The "Charles Willeford Omnibus" is a captivating compilation of three gripping novels by the esteemed author Charles Willeford. Included in this collection are "Miami Blues," "New Hope for the Dead," and "Sideswipe," each of which takes readers on a thrilling journey into the dark and seedy underbelly of humanity.

In the first book, "Miami Blues," readers are introduced to the unforgettable protagonist, Hoke Moseley, a veteran police detective with a tumultuous personal life. When a sociopathic conman named Junior Frenger wreaks havoc in Miami, Hoke becomes determined to bring him down. Willeford's expert storytelling and realistic characters make this a fast-paced and gritty read that keeps readers hooked until the very end.

Continuing Hoke Moseley's escapades, "New Hope for the Dead" follows the detective as he investigates the brutal murder of a junkie. As Hoke delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a tangled web of corruption and danger lurking in the shadows. Willeford's ability to vividly capture the seedy side of Miami and his sharp dialogue make this novel a must-read for fans of crime fiction.

In "Sideswipe," readers are taken on a thrilling rollercoaster ride as Hoke tackles a mysterious case involving stolen cars, a ruthless killer, and the treacherous world of the Chinese Mafia. Willeford effortlessly blends action, suspense, and dark humor to create a truly captivating read that will keep readers engrossed from beginning to end.

Overall, the "Charles Willeford Omnibus" showcases the brilliance of Charles Willeford's writing, with its compelling characters, unique storytelling style, and atmospheric settings. Fans of hardboiled crime fiction will be thoroughly enthralled by this collection, as it offers a tantalizing glimpse into the gritty and dangerous world of Hoke Moseley and the criminals he pursues. With Willeford's distinctive voice and expertly crafted plots, this omnibus is an essential addition to any crime fiction lover's library.

What are readers saying?

The Goodreads page for the "Charles Willeford Omnibus" contains a variety of reviews from readers, showing both positive and negative feedback. Numerous readers appreciate the omnibus for its comprehensive collection of Willeford's work, allowing them to delve into the author's unique style and diverse themes. The inclusion of multiple novels and short stories in one volume is particularly praised. Readers also admire Willeford's ability to develop intriguing and morally complex characters, which they consider a standout feature. The depth and complexity of the stories keep readers engaged from beginning to end.

However, some readers are disappointed with this edition of the omnibus. They criticize its lack of organization and structure, as it combines works from different genres and time periods. This mix makes it challenging for readers to navigate through the stories, resulting in a fragmented reading experience. Additionally, a few readers express concerns about the physical quality of the book itself, citing thin paper and poor binding.

Despite these mixed reviews, many readers view the "Charles Willeford Omnibus" as an excellent starting point for exploring the author's works. They appreciate the opportunity to discover lesser-known stories and enjoy the wide range of topics covered, including crime, mystery, dark humor, and social commentary.

In summary, the "Charles Willeford Omnibus" pleases readers with its extensive collection of the author's works and skillful character development. Some readers, however, are dissatisfied with the lack of organization and subpar physical quality of the book. Despite these criticisms, the omnibus remains widely recommended as an excellent introduction to Charles Willeford's diverse and engaging body of work.