Quite possibly one of the best opening lines for a novel ever. This statement holds a certain allure and mystery, making the reader immediately curious about what lies ahead. It sets the stage for something truly remarkable.

Seriously. The emphasis here adds a sense of authenticity and conviction. It makes the reader believe that the author is not just making a random claim but truly believes in the power of this opening line.

Oh yeah. The rest of it is f*cking awesome, as well. This exclamation further heightens the anticipation. It implies that not only the opening line but the entire novel is filled with excitement, adventure, and perhaps even a touch of the unexpected.

Seriously. Once again, the word "seriously" is used to drive home the point. It leaves no room for doubt in the reader's mind that this novel is something special and worth reading.

The preface reveals the unpleasant truths from the kitchen of the meat grinder called publishing business. Robert McCammon starts working on Insomnia right after he finishes Boy's Life, a novel on which he has lavished a lot, with the clear awareness that he has created a true masterpiece, but also a novel that initially does not meet the expected affectionate response - it is too different from his previous works and the label horror writer attached to him. Then follows a 10-year hiatus (1992 - 2002), during which nothing signed by him comes out on the market, and in this sense Insomnia is an extremely valuable book because it has filled the disappointment of the creator, unleashed in the conflict caused by the divergence between the direction determined by his publishers and his own searches, which still had to fulfill the signed contract.

According to McCammon, Insomnia is a journey from hell to the garden of paradise and if the end definitely came to me with an idea a bit too saccharine and naive, the journey itself was truly worth it. And no, don't expect some lofty literature, but first-class distilled action, it has captured the spirit of Rambo: First Blood by David Morrell (it's impossible not to make an analogy with the Vietnam War veteran who has reached rock bottom in life), fast-paced pursuit, absolutely sharp (and brutally bloody) turns and interesting authorial decisions.

I found what I expected and was looking for. After all, liking or not liking a given book is an extremely subjective act. I really liked it.

I was reading this book incidentally.

Although in some places McCammon's book delved into heavy themes such as crisis, unemployment, degradation, illness, and so on. However, it was really a brisk ride and I saw it in cinematic colors.

Robert McCammon has an absolutely superb language ability, such that the reader can envision his stories as if they were playing on a big screen in a movie theater. It is sometimes a bit dusty, but one can't help but smile.

It's different from "Death Before Dawn" again, but that's just fine. Why should an author write everything according to one template?

I'm looking forward to his other books. 4 and a half.

Dan Lambert, a Vietnam veteran, is in a really tough spot. He's lost his job and the odd jobs he's been taking on just aren't enough to cover his payments. When the bank threatens to take away his truck, he snaps and something bad happens. The bank loan manager ends up dead. Dan has health issues from his time in Vietnam and doesn't want to spend the rest of his life in prison, so he runs away - south into the swamps of Louisiana's bayou.

This story is not just a typical action/adventure thriller. Yes, there's plenty of action, but it's the characters that really make it shine. Even though Dan has killed a man, it was kind of an accident and you can't help but root for him. Then McCammon throws in some really interesting characters like a couple of bounty hunters. One is a former circus freak and the other is an Elvis impersonator! It gets really crazy and takes on "Rambo" dimensions in some ways, but there's always a funny and absurd side to it. I couldn't put this book down and ended up reading the last half of it in one afternoon.

I've been a big fan of McCammon since "Boy's Life", which is one of my all-time favorite books. Earlier this year, I read his apocalyptic "Swan Song" and was really impressed with how good his writing is. Even though he's often thought of as a horror writer, he can write so much more than that. There's some language and violence towards the end, but overall, I thought this was a great read and I read it much faster than I planned.

"You told Curtis nobody could ever say you'd gone south. What's that mean?"
Dan realized he'd used the term, but hearing it from the mouth of another man had taken him by surprise. "Somethin' we said in 'Nam," he explained. "Somebody screwed up - or cracked up - we said he'd gone south."
"And you never screwed up?"
"Not enough to get myself or anybody killed. That was all we wanted: to get out alive."
Joe grunted. "Some life you came back to, huh?"
"Yeah," Dan said, "some life."

Dan Lambert's story is a wild ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It's a mix of action, adventure, and interesting characters that make it a really enjoyable read. If you're a fan of McCammon or just looking for a good thriller, you should definitely check this book out.

Review of the audiobook narrated by George Newbern

I had an amazing experience with my first Robert McCammon book, Speaks the Nightbird. It was so good that I was convinced he had instantly become one of my favorite authors. Before I started buying his books (as most of the audiobooks are Audible exclusives), I decided to go for the one that was available for free in my library. However, it turns out that even the best authors can have an off day. This is a fact that I was already aware of, but it was still a good reminder.

The good aspects of this book are that I really liked the dark humor and the writing style. The characters were also very interesting. I could see all the elements that I loved in the other book. However, the problems I had were mainly related to the plot. It seemed like McCammon had a great idea for the beginning and the end, but everything in between was just half-hearted. The outlandishness of the story didn't work for me at all (although I have to admit that it was consistent with the tone of the book). We meet some really weird characters and then some crazy things happen, which reminded me of a low budget action flick. I know that this kind of plot works for a lot of people, but I need some real thought and reason behind a plot to really resonate with me. I did like how the book ended, but it was too little too late.

George Newbern was the narrator for one of my favorite books this year, A Man Called Ove, so I know that he is a good narrator. However, I don't think he was a good fit for the tone of this book. His voice sounded much too happy and positive when this book needed a gritty and foreboding tone. Even though he did a good job with the different character voices, I just couldn't get past the wrong tone.

Final verdict: I would rate the story 2 stars, the narration 3 stars, and overall 2.5 stars.

I'm still a big fan of Robert McCammon and I'm looking forward to reading more of his books, but this one just didn't do it for me.

As for George Newbern, I'll definitely be keeping an eye on his future narrations, but I think he needs to be more careful when choosing the books he narrates to make sure he's a good fit for the tone.

Robert McCammon is an outstanding writer. In "Gone South", he astonishes readers with his innovative ideas, excellent pacing, and unforgettable characters. The opening line is truly spine-chilling.

4.5/5

"It was Hell’s season, and the air smelled of burning children."

My initial thought was that I wasn't prepared for such a thing. However, I was mistaken. "Gone South" is not a depressing book; on the contrary, it's a story of hope and redemption. It's about a Vietnam veteran named Dan Lambert whose misfortune leads to tragedy. Broke, Dan attempts to negotiate with a bank's loan manager to keep his pickup truck. But things don't unfold as planned. An argument ensues, a gun goes off, and Dan becomes a killer with a bounty on his head. It only takes a masterfully written moment of fear and fury to change his life forever.

Since he's already dying from leukemia caused by Agent Orange during his time in Vietnam, he decides to run away. He wants to see his family one last time and perhaps find a quiet place to end his days. He knows that he has just taken the first step of a journey from which there is no turning back.

Two bounty hunters are hot on his trail. One is a seasoned veteran with three arms, and the other is an overweight Elvis Presley impersonator. It may sound absurd, but that's one of McCammon's greatest strengths - he makes even the most absurd characters seem human, profound, and relatable.

Take Pelvis Eisley, for example. He's an Elvis impersonator who dreams of getting into bounty hunting. He has an Elvis shrine in his apartment, wears a wig and blue suede shoes, and loves the King with all his heart. That's all he has - his admiration for Elvis and his little dog, Mama. At some point in his life, he decided that he wasn't good enough and needed something bigger to hold onto and hide behind. In "Gone South", he'll question whether he gave up on his own talent too early in favor of the Elvis disguise because he didn't believe in himself.

And then there's Flint. The experienced bounty hunter despises his life, but as a freak, he doesn't have many choices. Having an extra arm hanging from his chest and a baby-size head growing from his body hasn't exactly made life easy for him. The cruelty and indifference of people have made him mean and bitter, but not evil. He's in it for the money, but he has no intention of hurting innocents.

Dan flees from the bounty hunters and the police to the bayous of Louisiana, where he meets Arden Halliday, a young woman in search of a legendary faith healer named Bright Girl. From that moment on, the story and the suspense intensify as the two venture into the swamps and uncover their mysteries.

"Gone South" shows that life and circumstances can take unexpected turns, and sometimes all we can do is persevere. Life is unfair, difficult, and sometimes cruel, but people can always find a way out, even if it's only temporary. After all, what in life isn't temporary?

"Gone South" is a unique book. It's more hopeful than dark, yet it contains scenes of violence and chaos. It combines elements of action, thriller, and black comedy. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable read.

Absolutely elite opening line. This is the kind of statement that immediately grabs the reader's attention and sets the tone for something truly remarkable. It implies a level of superiority, a cut above the rest. When we hear or read such a line, our curiosity is piqued, and we can't help but want to know more. What follows this elite opening line could be a story of success, a revolutionary idea, or a breathtaking experience. It has the power to draw us in and keep us engaged from the very beginning. Whether it's in a novel, a speech, or an article, an elite opening line is a crucial element that can make all the difference. It sets the stage for what's to come and leaves a lasting impression on the audience.

A poor wretch, due to his desperation and the powerful's lack of shame, is forced to take an irreversible act and is judged with the severest penalty. Then he will have to flee, and after him will come the police and bounty hunters.

The story is very simple, well-written, and has good characters. It presents a situation that is both tragic and thrilling. The poor man's predicament makes us feel sympathy for him, while the actions of the powerful and the pursuit by the police and bounty hunters add excitement to the plot.

Perhaps there is more to the story than meets the eye. Maybe the poor man had no choice but to take the action he did, or maybe there are hidden motives and secrets that will be revealed as the story progresses. In any case, it is a story that has the potential to be both engaging and thought-provoking.

**** 4.3 STARS ****

When you pick up a book written by Robert McCammon, you can be certain that you are about to embark on an amazing literary adventure. "Gone South" begins in a rather ordinary way, but then it quickly takes the reader on a journey to places they could never have imagined. The story of Dan Lambert and his complex relationships with friends and enemies is truly captivating. The book is filled with a plethora of memorable characters. Among them, Flint and Pelvis stand out as my personal favorites. These two characters are extremely eccentric and add a wonderful touch of comic relief. What makes it even better is that their comical antics are presented in a serious manner, which creates a unique and engaging contrast.

"Gone South" is a truly wonderful book that manages to get better and better with each page turn. It keeps the reader hooked from start to finish, and leaves them longing for more. If you're a fan of great storytelling and unforgettable characters, then this book is definitely one that you should add to your reading list.

Wow! What an epic book!

What an adventure!

What a tragedy!

McCammon delivered yet again! I happened to come across this book at a library sale. The moment I saw it was a McCammon that I didn't already own, I immediately bought it. After reading the synopsis, I was so intrigued that I felt compelled to read it right away. And that was indeed a great choice!

What a cast of characters too! There's Dan, with his unique charm and determination. Arden, who brings a sense of mystery and allure. Flint, strong and reliable. Clint, with his own set of quirks. Train, who adds an element of excitement. And of course, Pelvis, who is simply unforgettable!

Have no doubt, McCammon knows how to write! His words have the power to transport you into a different world, filled with action, drama, and emotion. I have never regretted reading a McCammon, and I can't wait to see what my next adventure holds with his books!

“It was hell's season, and the air smelled of burning children.” This powerful and haunting statement sets the tone for a story that delves into the lives of returning Vietnam Vets. As Dan Lambert would tell you, their homecoming was far from easy. They often faced a lack of warm welcomes and stable employment. The flashbacks that tore apart families only added to their struggles. After Dan has a breakdown at the bank and goes on the run, the story takes off. He is pursued by two unique bounty hunters and meets a young woman determined to change her future. Along the way, they encounter a host of quirky, minor characters that add depth and humor to the narrative.

McCammon, in his Introductory Letter, describes this book as a journey of several main characters. While we begin in Dan's head, the story doesn't stay there. The premise is that four characters start on dark paths and navigate treacherous roads in search of light. The author weaves a tale that not only tells a story but also shares a journey. Spirituality and God are prominent themes, especially as Arden is introduced and the Bright Girl legend unfolds. The ending offers a sense of peace and redemption, soothing the reader's soul after experiencing the book's share of grimness and tragedy.

The author doesn't keep it all dark and serious, though. There is ample humor through the interactions of Flint (and Clint) with Pelvis. These two characters bring a lightheartedness to the story as they try to get along and find their bounty. While Dan is the more traditional Vietnam Vet with a conscience, Flint and Pelvis are outcasts in their own right. Flint, in particular, is frustrating at first but becomes more likable as he relaxes and opens his mind. The comparison between Flint and Arden in terms of who has had the rougher deal is debatable. Arden's face is exposed for all to see and judge, while Flint can at least hide his differences until someone gets too close or his shirt comes off.

Pelvis is a complex character. He appears to be the happiest, yet he has his own sad story. His journey with Mama is an important part of the book, and his joy on the page is something that can only be truly appreciated by reading the book. One could argue that the author included these unusual characters for humor, but I think it was also a nod to the times and the obsession with Elvis. Just as Dan had to move on from the war, Flint had to move on from his life as a carnie and find peace within himself. Their quirkiness saves them more than once, especially when Pelvis walks in looking like Elvis and shocks their pursuers. Flint repays the favor at the end, along with Clint.

This is a strange and wonderful book. It deals with serious and tragic themes such as war, the effects of Agent Orange, and broken families, but it also has elements of charm and hope. The villains are truly horrifying during the climax, adding to the demented South Bayou feel that the author was trying to create. While the book isn't intense in terms of creepiness or suspense, it is emotionally wrenching and a delight to read. McCammon's beautiful writing style only enhances the story.

To say that Dan Lambert has bad luck in life is an understatement. Dan dedicated his youth, health, and family to the country in the war in Vietnam. Now, suffering from leukemia, he can barely make ends meet by working as a bouncer for anyone who is willing to hire him. His only possession and work tool is a car on credit, which he is unable to pay off on time. It seems that things couldn't get worse, and then he receives a letter from the bank.

"Swamp" is a simple yet extraordinary story. It is like a nightmare or a dark fairy tale, where everything that Dan Lambert and other characters encounter is almost unreal - just think of the strange duo of bounty hunters who set off after Lambert in pursuit - it's hard to find such a pair in literature. To a large extent, it is precisely the characters, each of whom is mired in their own life's swamp, who are perhaps the greatest strength of this novel: even the negative characters can arouse the reader's sympathy and empathy, they are multi-dimensional and interesting, and their life choices are well-motivated.

The setting of the action is also a great strength of this story. The stuffy and hot Louisiana and the Bayou - a swampy land on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico, which seems to be a haven for life's debris and alligators, add a unique and heavy atmosphere to the book.

"Swamp" is simple and solid prose, just like an oak church pew. There is no point in looking for magical elements or poetic language here. Even Dan Lambert's Vietnam retrospectives are just a piece of good war prose. At the same time, it is difficult to classify this book into a specific genre. I think that "Swamp" is above all a road novel, but it can also be thought of as a thriller or a sensational novel.

I am using words like "extraordinary", "nightmarish", or "dark", and here is an explanation: the book is by no means depressing - Robert McCammon is not Cormac McCarthy. I don't want to spoil it, but there is a lot of empathy, warmth, and hope in this book. So if you are willing to read something unusual, bravely immerse yourself in the "Swamp".