Riding The Snake : Book Review

"Riding the Snake" is a gripping and action-packed thriller written by acclaimed author Stephen J. Cannell. The story is set in the dangerous underbelly of Los Angeles and follows the life of former cop turned private investigator, Shane Scully. When Scully takes on the case of a woman who fears her husband is plotting to kill her, he becomes entangled in a dangerous web of corruption and deceit.

Cannell's writing style is fast-paced and captivating, keeping readers engaged from start to finish. The plot is skillfully crafted, filled with unexpected twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. As a former television writer and producer, Cannell's storytelling abilities shine through, creating compelling and suspenseful narratives.

One standout feature of "Riding the Snake" is the well-developed cast of characters. Shane Scully, the protagonist, is flawed yet relatable, driven by his determination to uncover the truth. The supporting characters, including Scully's wife and fellow investigators, add depth and complexity to the story, enhancing its immersive quality.

Cannell's depiction of Los Angeles is vivid and gritty, capturing the city's dark underbelly. The author's attention to detail is commendable, painting a vivid picture of the seedy alleys, corrupt police officers, and the impenetrable world of organized crime. This setting serves as the backdrop for the thrilling cat-and-mouse game that unfolds throughout the novel.

Overall, "Riding the Snake" is an exhilarating read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With its well-crafted plot, compelling characters, and atmospheric setting, Stephen J. Cannell delivers a captivating thriller that will leave readers craving for more. Fans of crime fiction and suspense will not be disappointed by this masterfully written novel.

What are readers saying?

Readers have shared a range of opinions on Stephen J. Cannell's book "Riding The Snake." While some praised the novel for its thrilling and fast-paced narrative, describing it as a gripping page-turner, others were disappointed by its predictability and lack of originality.

Those who enjoyed the book found themselves immediately drawn into the story. They admired Cannell's skillful storytelling and commended the well-developed and relatable characters. These readers were deeply invested in the characters' journeys and found themselves rooting for them throughout the book. The suspenseful moments and unexpected twists held their attention until the very end, leaving them eager for more of Cannell's work.

However, there were readers who felt let down by "Riding The Snake." They found the plot to be predictable and lacking in originality, resulting in a formulaic story. Some felt that the book became monotonous at times, causing them to lose interest. A few readers even criticized the stilted and unrealistic dialogue, which hindered their overall enjoyment of the book. They were hoping for a more unique and original story from Cannell.

Despite these mixed reviews, the majority of readers appreciated Cannell's writing style and found "Riding The Snake" to be an enjoyable read. They commended his ability to create suspenseful and exciting scenes, which kept them engaged throughout. However, there were some readers who felt that the book fell short of their expectations, primarily due to its predictable plot and lack of originality. Overall, opinions on "Riding The Snake" were divided, with some praising it as a thrilling page-turner while others found it lacking in certain areas. Fans of suspenseful novels may still find value in giving it a read, but those looking for a more unique and original story might want to explore other options.