The Triumph of the Thriller: How Cops, Crooks, and Cannibals Captured Popular Fiction : Book Review

"The Triumph of the Thriller" by Patrick Anderson provides a comprehensive exploration of the rise and popularity of the thriller genre in contemporary literature. Anderson delves into the history of the genre, tracing its origins and development, while examining the key factors that have contributed to its immense success. Through extensive research and interviews with renowned authors, Anderson offers valuable insights into the craft of writing thrilling and suspenseful stories that captivate readers.

One of the strengths of this book lies in Anderson's ability to analyze the various subgenres within the thriller genre. He explores the different elements that make up each subgenre, such as spy thrillers, legal thrillers, and psychological thrillers, identifying their unique characteristics and what sets them apart. This provides readers with a deeper understanding of the vast spectrum of thrillers and the reasons they continue to appeal to readers across the world.

In addition to discussing the subgenres, Anderson also delves into the impact of real-life events on the popularity of thrillers. He examines how historical events, including 9/11 and the Cold War, have influenced the themes and narratives of many thrillers. Anderson's analysis highlights the symbiotic relationship between fiction and reality, showcasing how thrillers can reflect and comment on the world in which we live.

One standout aspect of "The Triumph of the Thriller" is Anderson's engaging writing style. He presents his findings in a well-organized and accessible manner, enabling both genre enthusiasts and casual readers to follow along easily. Anderson's passion for thrillers shines through in his writing, making this book an enjoyable and informative read for anyone interested in the genre.

Overall, "The Triumph of the Thriller" is a must-read for fans of the genre and aspiring thriller writers alike. Anderson provides a thorough examination of the history, subgenres, and impact of thrillers, offering valuable insights into what makes this genre so beloved and successful. With its engaging writing style and comprehensive analysis, this book serves as a valuable resource that will leave readers with a deeper appreciation for the art of writing thrilling stories.

What are readers saying?

Patrick Anderson's book "The Triumph of the Thriller" has garnered a range of opinions from readers, with both positive and negative reviews. Many readers commended the book for its comprehensive exploration of the thriller genre, praising Anderson's insightful analysis of its evolution. They found the book to be engaging and fascinating, appreciating the well-researched content and the inclusion of interesting anecdotes and examples. The book's balanced coverage of both classic and contemporary thrillers was also well-received, as it offered readers a holistic perspective on the genre. Additionally, numerous readers expressed their gratitude for the new authors and books they discovered through Anderson's recommendations.

However, there were some readers who felt that the book was excessively long and dry. They found Anderson's writing style to be overly academic, which made it challenging to read. Some readers also commented on the lack of strong editing, pointing out instances of repetition and unnecessary details. Additionally, a few readers felt that the book placed too much emphasis on American thrillers, overshadowing the contributions from international authors.

Despite these criticisms, many readers agreed on the book's value in providing insights into the genre's popularity and cultural significance. Anderson's ability to connect thrillers with societal and historical contexts, and their impact on popular culture, was appreciated. The book's exploration of the psychological and emotional appeal of thrillers added a thought-provoking dimension for fans of the genre.

Overall, "The Triumph of the Thriller" was praised for its in-depth examination of the thriller genre, despite some readers finding it dense and excessively long. Anderson's extensive research and analysis were viewed as strengths, and readers benefited from the book's introduction to new authors and books in the genre. If you are a fan of thrillers and enjoy academic discussions on literature, this book could be a worthwhile read.