Consider this a comprehensive review for ALL of David Goodis's novels. I have just completed a binge-reading session, going through them in order.

Admittedly, they fall into the category of genre fiction, and yes, the plots may sometimes seem a bit improbable and formulaic. However, one must look beyond these aspects.

On a sentence-by-sentence basis, Goodis is truly outstanding. He has a singular and distinctive voice that remains consistent throughout. It's as if his plots serve merely as a vehicle to explore the essential Goodis character - a fallen man.

We get to ride along with the internal dialogue of this character as he descends into a downward spiral. It's like a combination of Dostoyevsky's Underground Man, with a touch of Camus, and a hint of Kerouacian lyricism.

It's not always a pleasant experience, but at the same time, it is strangely compelling and beautiful. I found myself completely engrossed, unable to take my eyes off the page.

Goodis's writing has a unique charm that draws the reader in and keeps them hooked until the very end. His ability to create complex and flawed characters, and to explore their inner turmoil, is truly remarkable.

In conclusion, despite the flaws in the plots, David Goodis's novels are a must-read for anyone who appreciates great writing and character-driven stories.

On 8/3, I read Book #1: "The Killer Inside Me" by Jim Thompson.

This book is narrated from the perspective of the murderer. I noticed that the main character has some similarities to the title character in the TV series "Dexter". However, instead of being a forensic expert like Dexter, this killer works for the local police department. Lou, like Dexter, is a likable character, even when he is engaged in unlikable deeds. The book is short, fun, pulpy, and particularly interesting for the genre.

On 8/11, I delved into Book #2: "The Talented Mr Ripley" by Patricia Highsmith. At times, I was physically tense while reading this book. Tom Ripley can be such a pathetic and despicable character, yet one still gets nervous wondering if he will be caught. I can't say much more without spoiling the plot. It's an enjoyable and unconventional mystery.

On 8/16, I picked up Book #3: "Pick-Up" by Charles Willeford. So far, it's the least compelling of the stories. It takes place in San Francisco and follows a failed artist working dead-end jobs and his girlfriend with whom he has an intense relationship. It's the most conventional story so far, with a possible twist in the penultimate sentence that depends entirely on the reader's perception of the characters.

On 8/24, I read Book #4: "Down There" by David Goodis. This novel was the basis for Truffaut's "Shoot the Piano Player". Eddie has a troubled past and two older brothers who can't stay out of trouble. Additionally, a dumb woman keeps wanting to be with him, even though she only makes things harder for Eddie and puts herself in danger. Eddie is more like the protagonist of "Pick-Up" than the lead characters of "Ripley" or "The Killer Inside Me" in that he's not really a bad guy and may only be guilty of losing his temper when he fights.

On 8/27, I turned to Book #5: "The Real Cool Killers" by Chester Himes. It's a story of cops, teenage gangs, racial tension, and perverts in Harlem. At the beginning, a man called "the Greek" is shot, and a young gang member is killed by the police. The rest of the story revolves around the police's search for the murderer, which intersects with the lives of many characters and caricatures of Harlem.

To be perfectly honest, I found this story extremely tedious.

It is essentially composed of two rather pathetic individuals. They, after scarcely getting to know each other, embark on a rather sordid affair that involves excessive drinking and even attempted suicides.

Helen is a young woman hailing from a wealthy background. However, that doesn't prevent her from hurtling down a path of self-destruction. In fact, perhaps sauntering sensually with swinging hips is a more accurate description of her actions. She abandons her privileged home and status to prowl the seedy areas of San Francisco. It seems that nothing can fill the gnawing emptiness within her soul.

Harry, on the other hand, works in a diner. He has only been there for a couple of months. He is the first-person narrator of the story, and he makes it known that he doesn't hold jobs for very long.

Helen walks into Harry's diner, and he is instantly captivated by her beauty. She requests several cups of coffee. As she drinks, she reveals to Harry that she has no clue where she is. She has visited several bars, is quite drunk, and can't pay for the coffees because she lost her purse. Or rather, she thinks she left it at either a bus station or a train station. She doesn't remember which one she took to get downtown.

Harry pays for her coffee, and they leave together. Where do they go? To bars, of course. Both Harry and Helen have drinking problems, and together they spend a significant amount of time drinking. A whole lot, in fact.

Reading about their time spent drinking in bars is about as interesting as actually going to bars and watching alcoholics drink. The fact that they eventually agree on a suicide pact doesn't relieve the boredom at all. Call me callous if you will.

What follows is several psychological examinations and jail stays. I won't give away anything else except to say that the final sentence in the novel contains a previously omitted fact that will make the reader view everything they have just read in a new light. As someone else mentioned, this detail probably caused more shock in the 1950s than it does now. I was merely surprised.

If Crime Noir is your thing, you may indeed enjoy this novel. But for me, I think I have had my fill of Noir in this lifetime.

The rare multi-novel edition that has legible text!

Jim Thompson's "Killer Inside Me" is a brilliant work, yet it is ultra-violent, so one must be prepared for its intensity. The story delves deep into the mind of a disturbed individual, offering a chilling and thought-provoking exploration of human nature.

Patricia Highsmith's "The Talented Mr. Ripley" is an excellent story. However, having seen the Matt Damon film version years ago unfortunately colored my reading of it. But a friend just informed me about a French version called "Plein Soleil," which sounds truly great and might offer a fresh perspective on the story.

Charles Willeford's "Pick Up" is a heartbreaking and original work. It tells a unique tale that grips the reader from start to finish. However, the ending throws in a pointless plot twist that somewhat detracts from the overall impact of the story.

David Goodis' "Down There" is an interesting read. I just found out that Truffaut's "Shoot the Piano Player" was based on this story. This discovery adds an extra layer of intrigue to the novel.

Chester Himes' "The Real Cool Killers" is a captivating work. The first 5-10 pages of this are the wackiest fiction I have ever read, immediately drawing the reader in and setting the stage for a wild and exciting ride.

This is a truly wonderful collection of novels.

Thompson's works are constantly astonishing. Just when you believe you have become accustomed to his style, he manages to surprise you yet again.

Ripley, on the other hand, is a character like no other. There really isn't much that can be said to fully capture the essence of Ripley.

Willeford's writing is good, although there is a somewhat gratuitous plot twist.

Goodis always leaves a deep impression whenever I read his works.

And Himes is a revelation, offering a unique perspective and style.

Overall, this collection is a must-read for any lover of great literature. It showcases the talents of some truly remarkable authors and is sure to keep you engaged from beginning to end.

Wonderful collection indeed!

I truly love this book! It has become my constant companion, taking me on countless adventures within its pages. The story is so captivating that I find myself completely immersed every time I pick it up. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making me feel as if I am a part of their lives. The author's writing style is engaging and流畅, making it a pleasure to read. I can't wait to see what else this book has in store for me. Whether I'm reading it during my commute or before going to bed, it always manages to bring a smile to my face and a sense of joy to my heart. This book is not just a source of entertainment, but also a source of inspiration and knowledge. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a great read.

I've read a vast number of books, and among them, I've gone through all except for "The Real Cool Killers."

This particular book seems to hold a certain allure that has piqued my interest. I've heard numerous positive reviews about it, which makes me even more eager to get my hands on it and discover what makes it so great.

From what I can gather, it offers a unique and captivating story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The characters are said to be well-developed and the plot is full of twists and turns.

I'm looking forward to delving into its pages and experiencing the excitement and thrill that it has to offer. I'm sure it'll be a memorable reading experience that will add to my collection of favorite books.

Another great collection of American pulp fiction has emerged.

Typically, when one hears the word "pulp", it often connotes "low-brow" literature. However, within the pages of this collection, there is some truly serious literary excellence to be found.

Among my favorites are definitely Jim Thompson and Patricia Highsmith. Their novels function as captivating character studies of the criminal mind. They manage to succeed in their endeavors just as much as any work of "high" literature.

The depth and complexity with which they explore the psyche of the criminals are truly remarkable. It is not just about the crimes themselves, but about understanding the motives and inner turmoil that drive the characters.

I fully recommend this book to anyone who has an interest in exploring the darker side of the human mind through the medium of literature. It offers a unique and engaging perspective that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Whether you are a fan of pulp fiction or simply looking for something different to read, this collection is well worth your time and attention.

Dark but powerful (noir) novels have a unique allure that captivates readers. These novels are often set in a gritty and shadowy world, filled with complex characters and moral ambiguity. The atmosphere is one of mystery and danger, as the protagonist navigates through a web of lies and deceit.

Noir novels typically explore themes such as crime, corruption, and the human condition. The writing style is often spare and atmospheric, creating a sense of tension and unease. The characters are flawed and damaged, yet somehow compelling, as they struggle to come to terms with their past and find a way forward.

Some of the most famous noir novels include Raymond Chandler's "The Big Sleep" and Dashiell Hammett's "The Maltese Falcon". These novels have become classics of the genre, influencing generations of writers and filmmakers. Whether you're a fan of mystery, crime, or simply great literature, dark but powerful noir novels are definitely worth checking out.

I have never been a fan of mystery. During my undergraduate years, I enrolled in American Crime Fiction solely because I had a great liking for the professor who was teaching the course. There was no other reason.

However, this particular book has completely transformed my perspective on the hard-boiled genre. It has truly opened my eyes and shown me the depth and allure that this type of mystery can possess.

If you are someone who is skeptical about mysteries, I highly recommend picking up this book. It has the power to change your mind and make you appreciate the art and complexity of the hard-boiled mystery genre. You might be surprised at how engaging and captivating it can be. Give it a try and see for yourself.

The Killer Inside Me *** – SPOILER ALERT – This is truly a masterwork that delves deep into mood, psychology, and brutality. In many respects, it is a horrifying read, yet the character of Lou Ford is an incredibly evil and fascinating one. Despite its gory details and blatant amorality, it's extremely difficult to put the book down.

However, it is not without its flaws. I've counted three murders that the authorities seemingly overlooked even after suspecting Ford. That indicates some rather incompetent police work. One could also debate the plausibility of a psychopath who kills only every 15 years. Then there's the first-person perspective of someone who dies at the end and yet appears to be telling the story to someone. And finally, the women in this book who love Ford no matter what he does – and I mean absolutely no matter what – are quite strange. (Perhaps he learned to create female characters from Dickens.)

Overall, it's a great book when it comes to atmosphere, mood, and psychology. (11/18)

The Real Cool Killers *** This is the tale of a violent subculture in 1950’s Harlem, cordoned off by a society that shows little concern for the suffering and degradation of those living within it. All the characters, whether black or white, display an almost complete disregard for the suffering of strangers. The violence is excessive and savage, and a sense of being trapped pervades the novel.

For a detective story, it's interesting that the authorial voice shifts back and forth among all the characters, not just the principal detectives. We get to see the lives of the people (mostly petty criminals) in Harlem and the everyday violence they endure. The only thing not depicted is a life of normalcy and safety. In this way, I believe Himes presents a scathing indictment of American culture and its treatment of African Americans.

The plot has the typical twists of a noir story, along with a somewhat surprising ending followed by the typical explanation (which includes a Q&A from the police statements of the accomplices). But I found the very last scene to be the most interesting. It shows Sissie going to prison to visit one of the surviving characters of the story, and as they try to go straight (?), they decide to marry. She then admits she's pregnant with Sheik’s child, and the other character says they better get married as soon as possible. End of novel.

This is an odd ending. Of all the characters, why end with these two? And does it signify the end of a cycle of violence or the continuation of it? Is it meant to be presented as a misguided attempt to escape? Or is the reader supposed to be hopeful that everything will work out? My take is that it simply portrays the ongoing struggles of individuals in a segregated, violent society. A chapter ends, but the struggles and exhaustion persist.

Himes’ style is graphic and highly detailed. Everything is very descriptive, sometimes to the point of absurdity. But it is noir. If you enjoy a violent crime story, this is a gripping and well-told tale. Although it lacks explicit social commentary, it does shine a harsh light on American society. (5/14)

As for pulp fiction,

The Killer Inside Me by Jim Thompson, Down There by David Goodis and Pick-Up by Charles Willeford, are truly mean and gritty books.

They offer a postwar perspective on humanity that is decidedly hopeless.

These novels delve deep into the darker aspects of human nature, painting a vivid and often disturbing picture of a world filled with crime, corruption, and despair.

I must admit that I couldn't get into the other two novels included in this volume.

However, if you have an interest in vintage crime literature, this collection is a fine place to start.

It provides a taste of the unique style and atmosphere that characterized pulp fiction during that era.

You'll be transported back in time to a world where the line between right and wrong was often blurred, and where the only rule was survival.

So, if you're looking for a thrilling and engaging read, give these books a try.

You won't be disappointed.