The Main : Book Review

"The Main" by Trevanian is a thrilling novel that immerses readers in the dangerous world of organized crime in Montreal during the 1970s. The story follows Jean-Jacques "Jack" Houlihan, a dedicated police detective who finds himself caught in a perilous game of cat and mouse with the notorious mobster, Joey "The Crow" Molloy. As Jack relentlessly works to dismantle Molloy's criminal empire, he must navigate a treacherous landscape of deception, violence, and corruption.

Trevanian's storytelling is masterful, keeping readers on the edge of their seats with suspense and anticipation throughout the book. The narrative flows seamlessly, and the author's attention to detail shines through in his vivid depictions of both the characters and the city of Montreal. From the shadowy alleyways to the smoky bars, Trevanian skillfully captures the gritty atmosphere of the setting, fully immersing readers in the dark underworld of organized crime. His engaging and evocative prose allows readers to vividly imagine themselves alongside the characters, experiencing their highs and lows.

The character development in "The Main" is exceptional. Jack Houlihan is a complex and captivating protagonist, driven by a strong sense of justice but also haunted by personal demons. Similarly, Joey Molloy is a fascinating antagonist, portrayed as a ruthless and cunning mobster with a deeply layered past. Trevanian delves into the depths of the characters' psyches, delving into their motivations and inner struggles, enhancing the depth and complexity of the story.

One of the novel's strengths is its exploration of loyalty, betrayal, and the blurred lines between good and evil. As Jack delves deeper into the underworld, he is forced to confront his own ethical boundaries and question the morality of his actions. The author raises thought-provoking questions about justice and the choices we make when faced with corruption and danger.

Overall, "The Main" is a highly engaging and compelling read that combines the elements of crime fiction with character-driven drama. Trevanian's skillful storytelling and descriptive prowess bring the world of organized crime in Montreal to life, while his well-crafted characters and exploration of complex themes elevate the novel beyond a typical crime thriller. With its gripping plot and thought-provoking issues, "The Main" is a must-read for fans of the genre.

What are readers saying?

"The Main" by Trevanian has garnered a variety of opinions from readers. Overall, the book received both praise and criticism. The storytelling and perspective on the casino world were commended by many for their captivating nature and uniqueness. The descriptive writing style was particularly enjoyed, as it effectively brought the casino atmosphere to life. Readers were impressed with the attention to detail and the realistic portrayal of Las Vegas, noting that the setting was immersive and engaging.

The book follows the journey of Dan, a young blackjack dealer, who finds himself entangled in a web of deceit and crime within the casino industry. The intriguing premise of the story and the numerous twists and turns were applauded by readers, as they kept them guessing and maintained a high level of suspense and tension throughout. However, some felt that the pacing of the book, especially in the beginning, was slow. The plot was perceived as overly detailed at times, hindering the overall flow of the story. There was a suggestion that the book could have been condensed without losing its impact.

One common criticism of "The Main" was the lack of character development. While some readers found the characters to be well-written and believable, others felt that they lacked depth and found it difficult to emotionally connect with them. Some reviewers expressed a desire for more insight into the motivations and backgrounds of the characters.

In conclusion, "The Main" by Trevanian received a mix of positive and negative reviews. The book's ability to immerse readers in its setting and maintain suspenseful storytelling were praised. However, the slow pacing and lack of character development were points of concern for some readers. Despite these criticisms, many found the book to be an enjoyable and unique exploration of the world of casinos.