This wild cast of characters all come together after an unnamed hurricane hits South Florida hard.

Max and Bonnie Lamb are on their honeymoon in Orlando when the hurricane strikes. Max, with a sense of adventure, drives them down to the destruction zone and starts filming with his handy cam. However, Bonnie, disgusted by his actions, walks away from him and right into the arms of Augustine Herrera. Augustine is out searching for his recently deceased uncle's exotic animals. Meanwhile, Max is found by the former governor, who now goes by the name Skink. Skink, in a rather strange turn of events, abducts Max.

Evie Marsh, having missed out on sleeping with a Kennedy, teams up with fellow con artist Snapper in an insurance scam. Their plan quickly derails as the mark they choose, Tony Torres, is smarter than the average Floridian. He is also a shifty mobile home salesman who sold Ira Jackson's mother a "safe" mobile home, which unfortunately led to her death in the storm. Ira gets his revenge on Tony. Evie and Snapper then modify their plans and bring in insurance adjuster Fred Dove to the mix.

Throw in a really bad home inspector (so bad that he doesn't even get out of his vehicle to inspect the house), a conned Frenchman, an angry homeowner named Gar, and Jim Tile, and you have all the necessary ingredients for a Carl Hiaasen story. It is witty and funny at times, but mostly it shows how some people will stop at nothing to get a little bit of insurance money.

I've generally had a favorable opinion of Hiaasen's novels. Some of them I thought were just average, while a couple have been quite good. I've been reading them in the order of their publication, and it's evident that he has evolved as a novelist. This particular novel was a good one. I'm not entirely certain if it's his best thus far; that honor might perhaps belong to "Strip Tease." However, this novel is likely right behind it.

The story is set in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew and explores the common themes found in Hiaasen's works, such as tourism, environmental destruction, and political corruption. Max and Bonnie Lamb are on their honeymoon at Disneyworld when Andrew strikes. Max decides to embark on a video-taking tour of the devastation. This leads them to encounters with the typical cast of strange and often unappealing characters who inhabit Hiaasen's Florida (and, as far as I can tell, the real Florida as well). That includes the deranged ex-Governor known as Skink. I've previously stated that I don't like this character at all, and that sentiment didn't really change with this novel. I still think the character is rather lackluster. But despite his presence, I still enjoyed the book.

What truly worked in this novel is the examination of the numerous opportunities that humans will seize to take advantage of their fellow man when they are at their absolute lowest. It provides a thought-provoking look at the darker side of human nature in the face of disaster.

Knowing of Carl Hiassen's reputation, I decided to pick up Stormy Weather as some light and enjoyable vacation reading during my trip to Florida. And boy, was I not disappointed! This book is a hilarious and rollicking satire that takes a comical look at southern Florida in the aftermath of a devastating hurricane. The plot is so complex that I wouldn't even attempt to summarize it here. The novel is filled with a seemingly never-ending stream of bizarre and often rather unpleasant, if not downright repulsive, characters. However, despite all of this, it is a really funny book. Hiassen is not only a sharp satirist but also clearly a moralist. One of his specialties is coming up with comically inventive and poetically just ways for his characters to meet their fitting ends. I'm not entirely sure how many more of his books I will want to read, as I have a suspicion that he may repeat his formula and themes. But for now, I thoroughly enjoyed this one and I'm very glad that I read it.

Lately, I have been devoting myself to reading as much as possible from the complete catalog of some of my favorite authors.

This is, in part, simply to observe how the writer develops over time. I bring this up because if you have never read this author before, it would be unwise to make this particular book your first encounter.

It is indeed an entertaining read, yet it is not the prime example of the satire that I relish in his work. The characters in this book, although as amusing as always, were perhaps a touch too numerous for the narrative. Even those characters that one might typically cheer for had a somewhat more unsavory side to them than is customary.

Nonetheless, it still offers an engaging experience and provides insights into the author's writing style and the evolution of his creative vision.

It serves as a reminder that even within an author's body of work, there can be variation in quality and style, and that exploring the full range of their output can be a rewarding and enlightening endeavor.

A little more ponderous and character-laden than most of his novels, this particular work by Hiaasen offers a unique reading experience. It is still a rip-roaring read, yet it possesses a more literary flair than what one might typically expect from this author. Hiaasen has firmly established himself as the #1 choice for adult summer reading. His vivid descriptions and engaging storylines draw readers in and keep them hooked from start to finish.

The character of Skink is especially captivating. One can't help but imagine getting lost in the swamp with him, exploring the wild and untamed beauty of nature. The author's ability to bring this character to life is truly remarkable, and it adds an extra layer of depth and excitement to the story. Whether you're a long-time fan of Hiaasen or new to his work, this novel is sure to satisfy.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone looking for a thrilling and thought-provoking summer adventure. With its combination of action, mystery, and literary charm, it's no wonder that Hiaasen remains at the top of the adult summer reading list. So, grab a copy, find a comfortable spot, and prepare to be transported into a world of adventure and intrigue with Skink and the rest of the unforgettable characters in this amazing novel.

I have an unwavering love for Carl Hiaasen’s unique sense of humor. And in this particular work, he truly didn't disappoint me at all!

This book presents a highly amusing examination of multiple characters. It delves into their individual perspectives of the world and their gradual realization that life often doesn't unfold in the way one meticulously plans. I had never before imagined that the aftermath of a hurricane could be so hilariously portrayed. The characters are truly great, with their distinct personalities and quirks. The improbable situations they find themselves in and the unlikely outcomes that follow kept me thoroughly entertained throughout. I couldn't help but keep turning the pages, constantly wanting more of this engaging and humorous story. It's a literary gem that showcases Carl Hiaasen's remarkable talent for creating a world that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.

This remarkable book has truly carried me through the difficult times of injustice that I was unfortunately experiencing with my son.

Yes, it is true that the plot bears some resemblance to the first two installments in the series. However, that didn't matter to me one bit. What I truly needed was to witness justice being served, all while being able to find laughter in the midst of it all.

I am simply in awe of the author's vast knowledge of so many things. Reading this book is an absolute delight, as it is just like watching a thrilling roller coaster movie. You can vividly picture every single little detail right in front of your eyes.

I just can't help but love Hiaasen and his wonderful works. They have the power to transport you to another world and make you forget about your own troubles, even if only for a little while.

This book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good story filled with adventure, humor, and a sense of justice.

The first Hiaasen novel I ever read was an absolute delight, and it remains one of my all-time favorites.

I can still vividly recall the moment I picked up that book and was immediately drawn into its unique and captivating world.

The story was filled with rich characters, thrilling adventures, and a touch of that special Hiaasen charm.

Recently, Hurricane Irma has been on my mind, and strangely enough, it keeps making me think of scenes from that very novel.

Maybe it's the way the powerful forces of nature were described in the book, or perhaps it's the sense of chaos and unpredictability that both the hurricane and the story share.

Whatever the reason, it's been a fascinating connection to make, and it has only deepened my appreciation for that wonderful Hiaasen novel.

I look forward to reading more of his works and seeing what other adventures and connections they will bring.

From 1995, there is the classic work by Hiaasen.

It follows the adventures and antics of multiple characters in the aftermath of a devastating hurricane.

All the stories are intricately tied together to form an entertaining tale that captivates the reader from start to finish.

The narrative involves a diverse cast of characters, including storm scammers looking to take advantage of the chaos, newlyweds dealing with the upheaval in their lives, cops trying to maintain law and order, criminals on the loose, escaped exotic animals adding an element of wildness, and of course, Skink, a unique and memorable character.

The story is filled with countless twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat, constantly wanting to know what will happen next.

It is truly an enjoyable indulgence that takes you on a thrilling ride through a world filled with excitement, drama, and unexpected surprises.

Whether you are a fan of adventure, mystery, or just a good story, this classic work by Hiaasen is sure to satisfy.

Another outstanding Carl Hiaasen book awaits you.

The story is firmly set in a post-hurricane South Florida. The characters within this tale are nothing short of crazy, funny, and outrageously entertaining.

Skink, in particular, is in top form. The events that unfold around him and the people he manages to attract are truly captivating and never disappoint.

If you have a penchant for the bizarre and the humorous, then this book comes highly recommended. It offers a unique and engaging reading experience that will keep you entertained from start to finish.

Carl Hiaasen has once again proven himself to be a master storyteller, creating a world filled with unforgettable characters and wacky adventures. So, don't miss out on this gem of a book.

An earlier Hiaasen novel, which I might have read several years ago, but I had completely forgotten about it.

After a major hurricane struck Miami, there was insurance fraud, corrupt construction inspectors, a criminal with a snapping turtle-like jaw, an ad copywriter who cut short his Disney honeymoon to film the storm damage, several state highway patrol officers, a man who juggled skulls, various escaped exotic wildlife from a wildlife sanctuary, and Skink (the former governor of Florida who had vanished into the Everglades and lived off roadkill).

Hiaasen is an environmentalist who views the overpopulation and overbuilding in Florida, as well as its crooked politicians, with an extremely vivid sense of humor and a strong sense of justice. His early works are truly hilarious and engaging, filled with unique characters and absurd situations that keep the reader entertained from start to finish.

It's interesting to revisit these earlier works and see how Hiaasen's writing style and themes have evolved over the years. Despite the passage of time, his ability to create memorable characters and tell a captivating story remains as strong as ever.

Whether you're a long-time fan of Hiaasen or new to his work, these early novels are definitely worth a read. They offer a humorous and satirical look at the darker side of Florida life, while also highlighting the importance of environmental conservation and social justice.

So, if you're in the mood for a good laugh and a thought-provoking read, pick up one of Hiaasen's early novels and get ready to be entertained.

I truly have a fondness for Hiaasen's work and the improbable characters he creates.

Many of these characters seem so real in their unrestrained pursuit of pleasure, their complete lack of shame for their greedy and immoral deeds, and their absurd narcissism and nihilism that it's hard to believe they are entirely fictional. Lol. (Not to mention their straightforward criminality, stupidity, and ignorance.)

On the other hand, some of the characters appear too simple, with a touch of naïve sweetness and concern, making them seem almost too good to be true. And it seems a bit too convenient to attribute their lot in life solely to being born under an unlucky star.

Oh well, Hiaasen's humor is distinctively American and somewhat blunt, but it's still thoroughly delightful. When you add in his unlikely plots, excesses, and his signature quirkiness, he has once again produced an entertaining book! Perhaps it's not his absolute best, but it still earns a solid three and a half stars.