"Clandestine" by James Ellroy is an gripping crime novel that takes place in 1950s Los Angeles, immersing readers in a dark and corrupt world. Protagonist Fred Underhill, a young detective with the LAPD, becomes entangled in a web of deceit and corruption as he investigates a series of brutal murders. The story delves into the seedy underbelly of the city, exposing the harsh reality of power and money.
Ellroy's writing style is intense and atmospheric, capturing the essence of 1950s Los Angeles with vivid detail. The author skillfully brings the city to life, illustrating a society plagued by corruption and moral ambiguity. The characters are complex and flawed, adding depth and realism to the narrative. Fred Underhill, torn between his duty as a detective and his personal demons, proves to be a compelling protagonist. As the plot unfolds, readers are drawn deeper into Fred's world, uncovering the secrets and lies that lurk beneath the surface.
The pacing of the novel is expertly done, gradually building suspense until the shocking climax. Ellroy keeps readers on their toes by introducing new twists and turns that keep the pages turning. The gritty and authentic dialogue adds to the overall atmosphere of the story, capturing the vernacular of the era. The violence is portrayed in a brutal and graphic manner, enhancing the raw and gritty nature of the book.
Available on Audible
One of the strengths of "Clandestine" lies in its portrayal of the corrupt and morally bankrupt society of 1950s Los Angeles. Ellroy delves deep into the underbelly of the city, exposing the dark side of power and wealth. The themes of corruption, betrayal, and redemption are explored with nuance and complexity, providing readers with a thought-provoking read.
In conclusion, "Clandestine" is a masterfully written crime novel that transports readers to a dark and corrupt world. With its atmospheric setting, complex characters, and gripping plot, it is a must-read for fans of noir fiction and crime thrillers. Ellroy's sharp and evocative prose keeps readers engaged from start to finish, delivering a thrilling and unforgettable reading experience.
What are readers saying?
James Ellroy's crime novel, "Clandestine," has received a mixed reception from readers. The story centers around Fred Underhill, a police officer in 1950s Los Angeles, as he uncovers a web of corruption, murder, and deceit. While some readers found the book captivating and praised Ellroy's gritty writing style, others struggled to connect with the characters and felt that the plot was convoluted.
Many reviewers were captivated by Ellroy's writing style in "Clandestine." They appreciated his ability to create a dark and atmospheric setting that perfectly reflected the seedy underbelly of 1950s Los Angeles. The author's use of vivid and evocative language was also commended, as it allowed readers to imagine the gritty streets and complex characters. Additionally, Ellroy's talent for maintaining high tension throughout the story kept readers on the edge of their seats.
However, not all readers were impressed by "Clandestine." Some felt that the characters lacked depth and found it difficult to empathize with them. These readers believed that the narrative focused more on the intricate plot rather than on developing the characters, leaving them feeling disconnected. In addition, a few reviewers mentioned struggling to keep up with the numerous plot twists, finding the story too convoluted at times.
Despite these mixed reviews, many readers praised James Ellroy for his ability to capture the essence of the noir genre in "Clandestine." They appreciated his attention to detail and historical accuracy, as well as his portrayal of the moral ambiguity and corruption prevalent in 1950s Los Angeles. Ellroy's sharp and gritty prose, combined with his vivid depiction of the city's underbelly, were highlights for many readers.
Overall, the reception of "Clandestine" by James Ellroy has been varied among readers. While some were drawn in by the atmospheric writing style and tension-filled plot, others struggled with the character development and the complexity of the narrative. Nevertheless, many readers appreciated Ellroy's ability to capture the essence of the noir genre and his vivid portrayal of 1950s Los Angeles.
ClandestineReads MysteryThriller BookwormsUnite