Community Reviews

Rating(3.9 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
28(28%)
4 stars
32(32%)
3 stars
40(40%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 15,2025
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I was deeply engrossed in thinking about Carl Hiassen and Elmore Leonard books. I was really trying hard to recall which specific ones I had read. However, it has turned out to be quite a challenging task.

The story descriptions don't offer much assistance. Let's be honest here, the plots are essentially all the same. They are some kind of mystery set in Florida, featuring a hard-luck hero and a zany cast of secondary characters. There are just enough plot twists to make you keep turning the pages.

Don't misunderstand me. These books are great for what they are - they are perfect for fun summer reading. If you are in search of complex characters or compelling literary fiction, then you should look elsewhere. But if you simply want to sit back and be entertained for a while, then you can grab any book by either of these authors.

Although I believe this particular one is my favorite among the Hiaasen books I've read. This is because of the crazy guy who discovers spiritual enlightenment by rolling around in a kiddie pool full of baby turtles (cooters). LOL! It's such a hilarious and unique情节 that really stands out in my mind.

July 15,2025
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Unbelievable characters! Out-of-this-world relationships! Fictitious fiction! Farcical, funny, sophisticated! All such adjectives have been and are used to describe Carl Hiassen's books, and all are accurate. This author continues to produce unique and very entertaining novels.

Never mind that most of us have never met, don't know, and never will meet people like those who swirl through the pages of this novel. Yet, most of us can point to specific traits in certain individuals we do know which are identical, or closely parallel, those of each of Hiaasen's characters. That is just one of the high levels of intelligence on which this novel exists.

In Florida, JoLayne Lucks wins the lottery. She holds one of two winning tickets for a $28 million pot. The other ticket is held by a couple of dim miscreants who don't wish to share the pot. When JoLayne is robbed of her ticket, she turns for help to a newspaperman, the most ordinary of characters in a novel filled with odd and unusual characters.

Thus begins a saga that takes these miss-matched protagonists from one end of Florida to the other. Along the way, we are invited to sample just about every good or evil aspect of life that Florida has to offer. It is a fine, wonderful novel that will hold readers' attention from first to last, and is so richly textured as to invite more than one re-reading.

July 15,2025
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Classic Carl Hiaasen!

His works are renowned for their wacky characters that come to life on the pages. Each character is unique and full of quirks, making them highly entertaining.

The witty dialogue is another highlight. It flows smoothly and is filled with humor and clever remarks that keep the reader engaged from start to finish.

The plot twists are simply amazing. They add an element of surprise and excitement, constantly keeping the reader on the edge of their seat.

And let's not forget the touch of Floridian crazy. Hiaasen's vivid descriptions of the Floridian setting add a unique flavor to the story, making it truly one-of-a-kind.

This book is yet another fun read from Carl Hiaasen. It's a must-read for fans of his work and anyone who enjoys a good laugh and an engaging story.

July 15,2025
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The perfect read for when you want to be entertained, but not think too much.

Hiassen snagged me from the get-go with his usual blend of insane characters. There's always that basic "Every Man" who in this case is a reporter (check). Then there's someone passionate about the environment (check), a possible love interest for EveryMan (check), an ex-love for EveryMan (check and check). There are also bad guy(s) who have some good in them (check), and bad guys that are beyond redemption (check, check, check) and should be eaten by something vicious. Plus, there's a mention of at least one of the endangered species in Florida (check).

Anyhow, this was, as my darling javaczuk said, typical, hysterically funny Hiaasen. His writing style is so engaging that it keeps you hooked from the very beginning. The crazy characters and their antics make for a thoroughly enjoyable read. You don't have to overthink things; just sit back, relax, and let the story take you on a wild ride. It's the kind of book that you can pick up when you need a break from the seriousness of life and just want to have a good laugh.

July 15,2025
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Absolutely entertaining and witty!

This is my favorite style of humor in writing. It has the power to make me laugh out loud and keep me engaged from start to finish.

The characters in this story were unbelievably real yet outlandish. They had their own unique personalities and quirks that made them truly memorable.

In my mind, this was my favorite movie of the year. It had everything I look for in a great film - a captivating plot, hilarious dialogue, and outstanding performances.

I would highly recommend this movie to anyone who loves a good laugh and enjoys a well-written story. It's a must-see for any movie lover!
July 15,2025
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This book is truly a bordering-on-ridiculous masterpiece that manages to be uproariously funny.

It presents a cast of white trash characters, and within their stories, an abundance of outrageously inappropriate things occur.

The situations are so absurd and yet so vividly depicted that you can't help but find yourself spontaneously laughing out loud on numerous occasions.

The author has a remarkable talent for creating a world that is both comical and somewhat cringe-worthy, drawing readers in with its unique blend of humor and the unexpected.

Each chapter seems to bring a new set of outrageous events that keep you engaged and entertained from beginning to end.

Whether it's the characters' outlandish behavior, their hilarious dialogue, or the absurd circumstances they find themselves in, this book has something to make you laugh every step of the way.

It's a lighthearted and enjoyable read that is sure to brighten your day and leave you with a smile on your face.
July 15,2025
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3.5 stars, rounding up because these Hiaasen books are truly enjoyable and effortless to read.

It might be more deserving of a 3-star review, yet the light-hearted nature of the plot and the humor really drive this story forward.

It's quite similar to the other two Hiaasen books I've read. I still believe that Bad Monkey was a little better as I preferred its plot more, but this one is still good.

The humor is extremely exaggerated. Clearly, Hiaasen had a middle-management editor at some point in his career whom he regarded as a complete moron, and that's the Sinclair character in this book!

I think we've all had to report to one of those middle-management idiots at some stage in our lives. I had a middle manager over 17 years ago who did nothing but press a button偶尔 to start a software build and make overly platitudinous statements in meetings. Yeah, that guy was a real "genius".

The main character, Krome, was entertaining and similar to many other Hiaasen characters I've encountered. JoLayne was also a fun character - who very early in the plot wins 14 million dollars in the Florida Lottery, but then the mischief begins.

Two rednecks with the combined IQ of a piece of toast then step in to try to steal the tickets, and the fun keeps going!

This stuff may not be Shakespeare, but it's definitely a lot of fun.
July 15,2025
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Another terribly funny novel that I thoroughly enjoyed. This particular novel is truly a gem. It is filled to the brim with a cast of interesting and weird characters. Some of these characters engage in the most ridiculous things, which had me laughing out loud at times. Their antics and absurd behaviors added a touch of hilarity to the story. On the other hand, there are also a few characters who actually seem to know what they are doing. They bring a sense of sanity and rationality to the otherwise chaotic world of the novel. Overall, this novel is highly recommended for anyone looking for a humorous escape. It provides a wonderful opportunity to unwind and forget about the stresses of daily life. So, if you're in the mood for a good laugh and an entertaining read, give this novel a try.

July 15,2025
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I had to add "funny" to my shelf list because Carl Hiaasen is definitely hilarious! I've devoured or listened to numerous of his other adult or young adult novels, and they all boast characters that can make you burst out laughing. This particular installment in his comic mystery series, set in his home state of Florida, seemed lengthier or more detailed than usual. There were at least four distinct groups of crazy characters who eventually intertwined in the small town of Grange, Florida, renowned for miracles such as the statue of Mary that sheds fragrant tears, a road stain image of Jesus, and others.

When resident veterinarian assistant, JoLayne Lucks, holds one of two winning lotto tickets worth $28 million, the other winner, a buddy white supremacist, decides they don't want to share the prize money, especially with an African American. Carl Hiaasen throws in a Miami newspaper reporter to assist JoLayne and a Hooters waitress to distract the thieves. Amazingly, all of the convoluted story lines didn't stop me from eagerly wanting to know how each fiasco was going to be resolved.

I have to give a great deal of credit to the narrator, George Wilson, for being able to赋予 each of the diverse mix of characters a unique voice, which helped to keep the characters straight. Hiaasen doesn't make it easy for a narrator. The events keep everyone on the move, almost to the extent that I couldn't believe something else happened to add to the adventure. The thing is, I could believe that all of these people truly existed and that Hiaasen had met them all, down in Florida. This novel was a long journey, though, and I'm ready for a shorter Hiaasen YA misadventure!
July 15,2025
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Carl Hiaasen is truly a remarkable figure in the world of literature. He has earned the reputation as the master of creative mutilations, and it's not an exaggeration.

His works are filled with unique and imaginative storylines that often involve strange and unexpected twists. He has a talent for taking ordinary situations and turning them into something extraordinary through his creative use of language and vivid descriptions.

Whether it's a wacky adventure or a satirical look at society, Hiaasen's books are always engaging and entertaining. His characters are vividly drawn, and his plots keep readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end.

If you're looking for a writer who can offer something truly different and exciting, then Carl Hiaasen is definitely worth checking out. You won't be disappointed!
July 15,2025
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A $28 million lottery.

An African American woman is fortunate enough to win half of it. Her plan is to use her winnings to save a precious wildlife refuge from the clutches of developers.

On the other hand, two white would-be militia members also manage to win half of the lottery. However, their intentions are far from noble. They steal the woman's winning ticket with the aim of using all the money to fund their racist activities. But they seem to be constantly distracted, unable to stop sniffling glue and posturing.

Then there is a reporter whose death has been greatly exaggerated.

These diverse and rather outlandish elements come together to form this crazy stew of a book. It's a story that combines elements of fortune, good intentions, evil deeds, and a touch of mystery. The contrast between the woman's altruistic plans and the militia members' malicious motives adds an interesting layer of conflict. And the presence of the reporter with the strange backstory further enriches the narrative, making it a truly captivating read.
July 15,2025
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This is one of the absolute best, funniest, and most enjoyable books I have ever had the pleasure of reading!

Carl Hiaasen is truly at his very best in this work.

The story is filled with such hilarity and wit that it keeps you engaged from start to finish.

It's the kind of book that leaves you with a warm and good feeling in the end.

It's not just a book; it's a pure pleasure to experience.

You'll find yourself laughing out loud at the crazy antics and unique characters that Hiaasen has created.

Whether you're a fan of his previous works or new to his writing, this book is sure to delight and entertain you.

So, if you're looking for a great read that will make you forget about your troubles and just have a good time, then look no further than this amazing book.

It's a must-read for anyone who loves a good laugh and a great story.

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