Flood : Book Review

"Flood" by Andrew Vachss is a gripping crime thriller that takes readers on a dark and intense journey into the depths of society's underbelly. The story follows Burke, a hardened ex-con and career criminal, as he embarks on a dangerous mission to rescue a young girl trapped in a brutal human trafficking ring. Against the backdrop of a corrupt and violent New York City, the novel explores themes of crime, justice, and the pursuit of redemption.

Vachss' writing style is raw and edgy, capturing the harsh realities of Burke's world with authenticity. As a lawyer and child protection advocate, Vachss brings his firsthand knowledge to the portrayal of the criminal justice system and the exploitation of children, leaving no detail untouched. The novel does not shy away from the disturbing and gruesome aspects of the story, painting a vivid and chilling picture of the horrors that exist behind closed doors.

The character of Burke is complex and compelling, with a dark past but a strong moral compass. Despite his criminal background, he is driven by a deep desire to protect those who cannot protect themselves. Burke's evolution throughout the story is captivating, as he battles his own demons while fighting tirelessly to save the innocent.

One of the standout features of "Flood" is its rich and well-developed supporting cast. From the enigmatic and dangerous Wolfe to the resilient and courageous Michelle, each character adds depth to the narrative and contributes to the overall tension and suspense. The intricate relationships between these characters, filled with trust, betrayal, and loyalty, add layers of complexity to the plot.

Overall, "Flood" is a thought-provoking and gripping crime novel that delves into important themes of justice, redemption, and the lengths one person will go to protect the innocent. With its gritty realism, memorable characters, and unflinching portrayal of societal issues, the book leaves a lasting impact on readers.

What are readers saying?

Andrew Vachss' book "Flood" has received a range of opinions from readers. Some were enthralled by the author's gritty and suspenseful writing style, while others found the book too dark and disturbing.

Many reviewers admired Vachss' unique storytelling abilities, describing "Flood" as a gripping and intense read. They appreciated his talent for creating a dark and atmospheric setting that heightened the sense of suspense and intrigue. The well-developed and complex characters, particularly the tough but sympathetic anti-hero Burke, were also lauded by many readers.

On the other hand, there were readers who did not enjoy "Flood." They found the book excessively violent and disturbing, with graphic descriptions of abuse and sexual exploitation. According to these reviewers, the darkness overwhelmed the plot and became overwhelming at times. Additionally, some found the writing style to be overly descriptive, which affected the pacing of the story.

Despite the mixed reactions, many readers appreciated Vachss' commitment to shedding light on societal issues such as child abuse and human trafficking. His background as a lawyer specializing in child protection added authenticity and depth to the narrative. However, a few readers felt that Vachss handled these themes in a heavy-handed manner, detracting from the overall reading experience.

Overall, "Flood" by Andrew Vachss has garnered a variety of reviews. While some readers were captivated by the author's gritty writing style and complex characters, others felt overwhelmed by the dark and disturbing themes. If you enjoy suspenseful and atmospheric crime novels that delve into societal issues, "Flood" may be worth exploring. However, if you are sensitive to graphic content or prefer lighter reading material, this book may not be suitable for you.

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