Community Reviews

Rating(3.8 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
25(25%)
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33(33%)
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42(42%)
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100 reviews
July 15,2025
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Skink!!!


The world we live in is truly amazing. It is filled with quirks, oddities, and a unique character all its own. In this regard, the elements for the Hiaasen formula are all present here. As this is his second book, I can already clearly see all the pieces that he loves to manipulate and utilize. Florida, for instance, is both enticing and repulsive at the same time.


The story is a very typical Hiaasen one, complete with all the usual trimmings. There is the corrupt businessman, the strange and crazy killers, the down-on-his-luck yet kind of cool hero, the quirky female characters, and the insane setting and theme. The story progresses briskly and remains entertaining throughout. It is indeed a fun read that keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.


When it comes to the characters, Rage is a well-developed character. He has depth, and his dialogues with others are excellent. His relationship with his ex-wife is also portrayed really well. And what can be said about Skink? He is simply awesome, and this is the first book to feature him.


Overall, this is a great tale that meets the expectations of Hiaasen fans. It leaves us eager to move on to the next book in his collection.

July 15,2025
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The first of Hiaasen's Skink books is what I'm currently re-reading in order.

At the beginning, this book seemed to take a while to really get going. It was a bit slow in the initial stages, and I found myself waiting for the story to pick up the pace.

However, as I continued reading, I was pleasantly surprised. The ending of the book was an absolute laugh riot. It was filled with unexpected twists and turns that had me laughing out loud.

Hiaasen's writing style is truly unique, and he has a way of creating characters and situations that are both entertaining and engaging.

I'm really enjoying this re-read of the first Skink book, and I can't wait to move on to the next one in the series.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery with a touch of humor.
July 15,2025
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Hiassen is an incredibly funny guy. His books are truly excellent for those light and entertaining vacation reads.

And "Double Whammy" is a particular gem as it features one of my all-time favorite characters: Skink. He is a hairy wild man who has absolutely no qualms about living off the fresh Florida roadkill.

The stories in Hiassen's works are fast-paced and filled with witty detective elements, along with a generous dose of Florida-specific humor. It's like a literary adventure that takes you on a wild ride through the unique landscapes and cultures of Florida.

Reading his books is not only a source of entertainment but also a great way to escape into a world of laughter and excitement. It's all about having a good time and enjoying the cleverly crafted plots and the hilarious characters that Hiassen brings to life on the pages.

Whether you're lounging on a beach or sitting by the pool, Hiassen's books are the perfect companions for a fun-filled vacation.

July 15,2025
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Too soon? Was it truly too soon to embark on another Carl Hiaasen novel right after devouring my very first book by this author?

I was dog sitting at the time, and since I had this particular novel on audio, I indulged in listening to it during some epic walks with the pooch. At least after two books, I've finally managed to learn how to spell his name correctly.

It's rather ironic that I consume so much crime fiction, yet I have absolutely no affinity for mysteries or whodunits, not even the slightest bit. This book would be the ideal find in your vacation Airbnb flat by the beach. It's the kind of thing you can simply pick up and start reading, without even having to emerge from the hangover fog caused by too many bottles of wine the previous night or whatever your personal excess might be. However, in a cold, stone-sober state, it just didn't resonate with me, not at this moment.

Perhaps I'll give it another try at a different time, when my mindset is more receptive to its charms. But for now, I'll be moving on to other literary adventures.
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