"Like a Hole in the Head" by James Hadley Chase is an exhilarating crime novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the gritty underworld of Las Vegas. The story revolves around Ricky Perrone, a small-time con artist whose life takes a dangerous turn when he unknowingly gets entangled with a notorious gangster.
Chase masterfully creates a vibrant and atmospheric setting, immersing readers in the glitz and glamour of Sin City while also exposing its dark and seedy underbelly. Through his vivid and descriptive writing, the author brings the locations and characters to life, making it easy to envision the action-packed sequences and suspenseful encounters.
The plot unfolds at a breakneck pace, filled with unexpected twists and turns, ensuring that readers are constantly on the edge of their seats. As Perrone attempts to outsmart the dangerous mobster and escape his clutches, he finds himself trapped in increasingly perilous situations, where a single mistake could cost him his life. Chase's ability to maintain the suspense and tension throughout the narrative is praiseworthy.
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The characters in "Like a Hole in the Head" are well-crafted and add depth to the story. Perrone, despite his flaws, is a relatable and sympathetic protagonist, and Chase skillfully portrays his internal struggles and personal growth as the plot unfolds. The supporting cast, including the ruthless gangster and the enigmatic femme fatale, bring complexity to the narrative, constantly keeping readers guessing about their true motives.
Overall, "Like a Hole in the Head" is a captivating and gripping crime novel that will satisfy fans of the genre. With its compelling storyline, well-developed characters, and skillful suspense-building, James Hadley Chase once again delivers an engrossing read. From start to finish, this book will have readers hooked and eager to uncover the final outcome.
What are readers saying?
"Like a Hole in the Head" by James Hadley Chase is a book that has divided readers with its mix of positive and negative reviews. Published in 1956, the story revolves around Clay Edwards, a man entangled in a treacherous game of greed and deceit.
Opinions about "Like a Hole in the Head" vary greatly. Some readers laud the book for its captivating plot and fast-paced narrative, while others criticize its lack of character development and dated language.
Many readers find the story thrilling, praising its unexpected twists and turns that keep them engaged until the very end. It is described as a page-turner that leaves readers craving more.
On the other hand, some critics express disappointment with the character portrayal in the book. They feel that the characters lack depth and complexity, making it difficult for readers to emotionally connect with them. A desire for more development and backstory is expressed to make the characters more relatable.
The use of outdated language in the novel is also a point of contention for some readers. While acknowledging that the book was written over 60 years ago, they find certain terms and phrases uncomfortable, which hampers their overall reading experience.
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