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Skink #1

Double Whammy

carl hiaasen

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R.J. Decker, star tenant of the local trailer park and neophyte private eye is fishing for a killer. Thanks to a sportsman's scam that's anything but sportsmanlike, there's a body floating in Coon Bog, Florida -- and a lot that's rotten in the murky waters of big-stakes, large-mouth bass tournaments. Here Decker will team up with a half-blind, half-mad hermit with an appetite for road kill; dare to kiss his ex-wife while she's in bed with her new husband; and face deadly TV evangelists, dangerously seductive women, and a pistol-toting redneck with a pit bull on his arm. And here his own life becomes part of the stakes. For while the "double whammy" is the lure, first prize is for the most ingenious murder.

404 pages, Paperback

First published January 1,1987
Series
Skink
Places
florida, new orleans louisiana, louisiana, 

This edition

Format
404 pages, Paperback
Published
March 1, 2005 by Grand Central Publishing
ISBN
9780446695664
ASIN
0446695661
Language
English
Characters More characters

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About the author

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carl hiaasen

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Community Reviews

Rating(3.8 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
25(25%)
4 stars
33(33%)
3 stars
42(42%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
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100 reviews All reviews
Profile Image for Kimberly .
Dhyan_kumar
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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You must start here, even if you've read another of Carl Hiaasen's books.

Skink comes to life in a truly remarkable way. As you begin to read, you'll find yourself completely immersed in the story. The character of Skink is so vividly portrayed that he seems to step right off the page and into your imagination.

His unique personality, filled with quirks and charm, draws you in and keeps you engaged from start to finish. You'll be forever hooked on this wild and wonderful adventure that Carl Hiaasen has crafted.

The story unfolds with a series of exciting events that will keep you on the edge of your seat. You'll find yourself eagerly turning the pages, desperate to know what happens next.

Whether you're a fan of mystery, adventure, or just great storytelling, Skink is a book that you simply must read. It's a captivating tale that will leave you with a lasting impression and a desire to read more of Carl Hiaasen's work.
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profilian
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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This 1989 novel is truly a gem.

It has all the right elements that make it an absolute delight to read.

Not only is it VERY funny, but it also presents a vivid and diverse cast of characters.

There are ignorant tourists, gorgeous babes, and a large-mouth bass fisherman who is VERY corrupt.

These characters must face off against a highly intelligent black State Policeman and a crusading journalist in this classic Carl Hiaasen satire.

If you're new to Hiaasen's works, this is an excellent book to begin with.

It offers a great introduction to his unique writing style and sense of humor.

Moreover, it marks the first appearance of "Skink" in a Hiaasen novel, adding an extra layer of interest and charm.

Overall, this novel is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good laugh and a well-crafted story.
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raichuzeyou
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Carl Hiaasen's portrayal makes Florida seem like an incredibly dangerously crazy place.

This 1987 mystery is centered around the world of bass sports fishing. The protagonist, Decker, a former photographer turned private investigator, is hired by a wealthy man to catch his rival, a renowned bass fisherman, cheating. It turns out that most of the big-name bass fishermen cheat in competitive fishing tournaments, and the rich guy has become fixated on a celebrity with his own cable TV show.

However, Decker soon discovers he's been set up, and the plot takes wild twists and turns, involving his ex, a televangelist trying to sell Florida real estate, a group of racist Florida rednecks, a crazy former governor now living as a mad hermit, a black state trooper assigned to the most racist backwaters of the state, a Cuban police detective who has to learn to fish, and a would-be assassin with a rotting pit bull's head clamped onto his arm.

Even Mickey Mouse gets a mention. Surprisingly, the only thing that doesn't appear is alligators.

"Double Whammy" is both entertaining and well-plotted. Despite the zany plot twists, Hiaasen manages to bring it all together, weaving these strange, loony, venal, and oddly noble characters into a story about timeshares, bass fishing, and murder. The fact that Hiaasen knows Florida well and did extensive research on bass fishing makes the details stand out. It's the characters and the twists that truly capture your attention.

Although a bit dated now (written in 1987, as evident by the problems that would be solved by a cell phone today), it's still a good read. I've read two books by Carl Hiaasen, and he has a talent for making Florida sound like the weirdest place on Earth and then inserting an almost-plausible plot into it.

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see_me_rollin
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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Funny, quirky, and at times, with a touch of gutter humor, this book is truly enjoyable!

Although the author's writing may not be of the caliber to win a Pulitzer Prize, it is still very good. The book is filled with hilarious moments that will make you laugh out loud.

The unique style of the writing, with its combination of humor and quirkiness, keeps the reader engaged from start to finish. It's the kind of book that you can pick up when you're in need of a good laugh and it will surely deliver.

Whether you're a fan of humorous literature or just looking for a lighthearted read, this book is definitely worth checking out. So, go ahead and give it a try, and get ready to be entertained!
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BFlorry
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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The story line of the first book in which the bizarre character of Skink appears is truly captivating.

It revolves around commercial bass fishing tournaments, where some participants engage in cheating to win the huge prizes and the associated prestige.

Skink, with his unique personality, is determined to expose these cheaters, but he does it in his own idiosyncratic way.

The book is an adventure from start to finish. It managed to hold my attention throughout, even though bass fishing isn't exactly my favorite pastime.

There is a whole cast of unusual characters, each adding their own flavor to the story. In addition, there are all kinds of fraud and deception going on.

I have read other books with Skink as a main character, and I have always enjoyed seeing the creation and development of this character.

This particular book was a really fun read, filled with excitement, mystery, and a touch of the unexpected.

It's a book that I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a good adventure story with a unique cast of characters.

Whether you're a fan of bass fishing or not, this book has something to offer.

It's a great escape into a world of strange characters and thrilling adventures.

So, if you're looking for a new book to read, give this one a try. You won't be disappointed!

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almightycapone
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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It truly doesn't get any better than this!!! Double Whammy is right up there among the favorites from the renowned Dan Jenkins. This work is simply outstanding and captivating. If you haven't had the pleasure of reading any of Carl Hiaasen's books, then you had better start right away. You really owe it to yourself to experience the unique and engaging writing style that Hiaasen brings to the table. His stories are filled with excitement, humor, and unforgettable characters. By delving into his works, you will open up a whole new world of literary enjoyment. So don't hesitate any longer. Grab a copy of one of his books and embark on an adventure that you won't soon forget.

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pinnipedpal
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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There are simply too many dead animals in this story, which is truly disheartening. It feels as if the author is using this as a cheap shock tactic rather than a meaningful plot device.


And then there's the ending. It's so disappointing that it leaves a bad taste in my mouth. It seems like the author just gave up and couldn't come up with a better conclusion.


But what really gets on my nerves is the trope of the hypocritical gross televangelist. It's been done to death and is so predictable. Can't we have something new and original for once?


Overall, this story fails to engage me on any level. It's full of tired clichés and lacks any real depth or creativity.

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Eitra
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
July 15,2025
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This particular work may not be as uproariously hilarious as some of his subsequent novels.

However, it still manages to be a captivating mystery.

The story is centered around the themes of murder and greed within the context of bass fishing tournaments.

The author skillfully weaves a web of intrigue, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat as they try to solve the mystery.

Despite lacking the extreme humor that characterizes his later works, this novel has its own charm and appeal.

The setting of the bass fishing tournaments adds an interesting and unique backdrop to the story, making it stand out from other mysteries.

Overall, it is a good read for those who enjoy a well-crafted mystery with a touch of drama and excitement.
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