Double Dealer : Book Review

"Double Dealer" by Max Allan Collins is an exciting and captivating mystery novel set in 1950s Chicago. The story follows Nate Heller, a private detective who is assigned to investigate the murder of a police officer. Little does he know, this case will lead him down a dangerous path filled with deception and conspiracy.

Collins skillfully brings the atmosphere of 1950s Chicago to life, painting a gritty and realistic backdrop for the story. His attention to detail and vivid descriptions create an immersive reading experience, allowing readers to be fully transported into this era of organized crime and corruption. Additionally, Collins successfully captures the essence of the noir genre by presenting a morally complex protagonist and a plot full of intriguing twists and turns.

The characters in "Double Dealer" are another standout element of the novel. Nate Heller, with his blend of toughness and vulnerability, is a compelling lead character who readers can root for. The supporting cast, including real-life figures such as Frank Nitti and Eliot Ness, are well-developed and add depth to the story.

The pacing of the novel is excellent, with each chapter ending on a thrilling note that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages. The plot is intricately woven, with multiple subplots and surprising revelations that maintain a high level of suspense throughout the book. Collins' writing style is fast-paced and engaging, making "Double Dealer" a gripping and entertaining read from start to finish.

Fans of noir mysteries with historical elements will thoroughly enjoy "Double Dealer." With its memorable characters, atmospheric setting, and intricate storyline, this novel is a must-read for anyone who loves the genre. Max Allan Collins once again demonstrates why he is a master of the mystery genre with this engrossing and thrilling novel.

What are readers saying?

The book "Double Dealer" written by Max Allan Collins has received a variety of reviews, with some readers praising the author's storytelling abilities and the development of the characters. These individuals found the writing style to be engaging, holding their attention and creating a desire to continue reading. They appreciated the depth and complexity of the characters, including the protagonist Nathan Heller, who was particularly well-received for his likability and the way in which he carried the story.

On the other hand, there were a notable number of reviewers who believed that the plot of "Double Dealer" was predictable and lacked originality. They claimed to have guessed the twists and turns very early on, which ultimately hindered their enjoyment of the book. Some readers felt that the storyline followed a familiar formula, similar to other detective novels they had encountered in the past.

Despite these criticisms, many readers still found the book to be enjoyable overall. They admired the historical setting and the meticulous attention to detail that Max Allan Collins brought to the narrative. The portrayal of 1940s Chicago was highly praised, as it was regarded as authentic and created an immersive reading experience that transported them to another time period.

In addition to the plot, some readers expressed dissatisfaction with the pacing of the book. They believed that certain sections dragged on for too long, making the reading experience feel slower. However, there were others who believed that the pacing was appropriate, allowing for a gradual buildup of suspense and tension throughout the story.

In summary, readers have shared mixed opinions on "Double Dealer" by Max Allan Collins. While some lauded the author's storytelling abilities and character development, others found fault with the predictable plot and lack of originality. Nevertheless, the book's historical setting and attention to detail were praised by many. The pacing of the narrative was a point of contention, with some finding it too slow and others appreciating the gradual building of suspense.

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