Sleight of Hand: Conversations with Walter Satterthwait : Book Review

Walter Satterthwait's "Sleight of Hand" is a captivating mystery novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey into the world of illusion and deceit. The story follows the adventures of Joshua Croft, a private investigator tasked with unraveling the puzzle of a famous magician's disappearance. As Croft delves further into the case, he uncovers a tangled web of secrets, lies, and dangerous individuals.

Satterthwait's writing style is engaging and keeps readers enthralled from beginning to end. The plot is meticulously crafted, with numerous unexpected twists and turns that leave you guessing until the final page. The author masterfully blends mystery, suspense, and the art of magic, resulting in a distinct and enjoyable reading experience.

The characters in "Sleight of Hand" are richly developed and realistic. Joshua Croft is a complex protagonist, displaying both resilience and vulnerability, which makes it easy to empathize with him. The supporting characters also contribute to the story's allure, each harboring their own motivations and secrets that bring depth to the narrative.

One of the novel's standout features is its meticulous exploration of the world of magic and illusion. Satterthwait's extensive knowledge and thorough research shine through, bringing the illusions and performances vividly to life and authentically capturing the essence of the magician's craft. This infusion of fascination and intrigue adds an extra layer of excitement to the overall story.

In conclusion, "Sleight of Hand" is an enthralling and satisfying mystery novel that is sure to captivate fans of the genre. With its well-paced plot, compelling characters, and insightful portrayal of the world of magic, this book guarantees to keep readers entertained and engrossed until the very end. Walter Satterthwait once again proves his talent as a skilled storyteller in the realm of mystery fiction.

What are readers saying?

Walter Satterthwait's novel "Sleight of Hand" has received a varied response from readers. Set in 1920s Hollywood, the book follows the adventures of Pinkerton, a former stage magician who becomes a private investigator. Here is a summary of the reviews:

1. Positive feedback: Many readers commended Satterthwait for his skill in capturing the allure and glamour of 1920s Hollywood. They found the historical backdrop captivating and appreciated the author's attention to detail. The clever and intricate plot filled with unexpected twists and turns was also well-received. Readers found Pinkerton to be a likable and charismatic character.

2. Negative feedback: Some readers were disappointed with the pacing of the book, feeling that it started off strong but lost momentum as the story progressed. They found the plot convoluted and confusing, with an overwhelming introduction of too many characters. Additionally, a few reviewers criticized the writing style for lacking emotional depth and appearing dry.

3. Appeal to mystery enthusiasts: Fans of mystery novels found "Sleight of Hand" to be an enjoyable read. They appreciated the unique incorporation of magic tricks and illusions into the plot, which brought a refreshing element to the genre. The book's mystery elements kept them engaged and guessing until the end.

4. Attracting historical fiction fans: Readers who enjoy historical fiction praised Satterthwait's meticulous attention to detail when depicting 1920s Hollywood. The vivid descriptions of the era, including its glitz and glamour, combined with the author's exploration of real historical figures, added depth to the story and pleased fans of the genre.

SleightOfHand BookLovers MysteryNovels