Ron, I think your new Substack is far better than the stuff WAPO allowed you to write. I look forward to reading your reviews, even if the books are not on my list!
Another great review that led me straight to my library holds list -- thank you. And, if anyone hasn't read TC Boyle's Tortilla Curtain yet, do yourself a favor and do so.
Although I haven’t read this latest T.C. Boyle novel, it’s entertainingly ominous description reminds me of my favorite Boyle short story, “Carnal Knowledge.” Similar angsty hero, too-good-to-be-true mystery woman, powerful boyfriend. I’d be interested in reading the new book just to see how the plots diverge/illuminate.
Boyle won me forever ago with his early short story “Heart of a Champion,” in which Timmy loses his illusions about Lassie after watching her copulate with a wolf.
I love the author videos that you've been including in your posts! What they say is important, of course, but I find myself being so interested in their actual tone, voice, and mannerisms. Being able to humanize an author this way really enhances my reading of their work. Thank you, and great review as always.
Ron, this fantastic review reminds me why I overstayed my tolerance for management’s antics at WaPo. At the end, after mourning the loss of favorite columnists and reporters, I hung on for your brilliant writing, and Book World.
I read several of T. C. Boyle’s novels years ago. Looks like it’s time to read another one. Thank you!
Throughout this review I kept saying Ohhh over and over - about the elements of the story, but also about the language of the review. If the book is as well-written and engaging as this review, it will pull you in and stay with you a long time.
A classic, brilliant Ron Charles review.
Thank you! (And thanks for being a paid subscriber.)
Ron Charles, you have a great sense of humor, and your use of language is unsurpassed! Loved your review.
Wow. This sounds exactly like the kind of book I'd NEVER choose to read, and yet, your review has me adding it to my pile. Thanks??
Ha! Thank you -- and tell me what you think when you get to it.
An author should be grateful to get a review from Ron Charles, one that is worthy of the book itself.
Ron, I think your new Substack is far better than the stuff WAPO allowed you to write. I look forward to reading your reviews, even if the books are not on my list!
Another great review that led me straight to my library holds list -- thank you. And, if anyone hasn't read TC Boyle's Tortilla Curtain yet, do yourself a favor and do so.
"Tortilla Curtain" was the first T.C. Boyle novel I read. Made such an impression on me!
Same! I just decided to re-read it -- I think it will be just as meaningful today as it was all those years (decades!) ago.
Although I haven’t read this latest T.C. Boyle novel, it’s entertainingly ominous description reminds me of my favorite Boyle short story, “Carnal Knowledge.” Similar angsty hero, too-good-to-be-true mystery woman, powerful boyfriend. I’d be interested in reading the new book just to see how the plots diverge/illuminate.
Thanks so much for this! I would never have read this book, but maybe now I will! (Loved the quote about the desert.)
Me too - that description of the desert is brilliant
Boyle won me forever ago with his early short story “Heart of a Champion,” in which Timmy loses his illusions about Lassie after watching her copulate with a wolf.
Whoa! Two sips of my morning coffee plus this rousing review equals awake! I added this book to my library request list; thank you.
It's definitely rousing! (Thanks for being a paid subscriber.)
Me too. Started my morning coffee (and croissant) and am mesmerized by Ron Charles' writing. What a ride.
Love TC Boyle novels, so I planned to read his new one. But now I know why I'll love it.
Well done.
I would not want to be a character in a T.C. Boyle novel--his ways to heap misfortune and calamity on them knows no bounds...
I'm seeing the makings of a fun literary poll here....
I love the author videos that you've been including in your posts! What they say is important, of course, but I find myself being so interested in their actual tone, voice, and mannerisms. Being able to humanize an author this way really enhances my reading of their work. Thank you, and great review as always.
So glad you're enjoying those, M. Was my wife's idea!
(And thanks for being a paid subscriber, too.)
Ron, this fantastic review reminds me why I overstayed my tolerance for management’s antics at WaPo. At the end, after mourning the loss of favorite columnists and reporters, I hung on for your brilliant writing, and Book World.
I read several of T. C. Boyle’s novels years ago. Looks like it’s time to read another one. Thank you!
Thanks, Deborah. I really appreciate your subscription here!
Throughout this review I kept saying Ohhh over and over - about the elements of the story, but also about the language of the review. If the book is as well-written and engaging as this review, it will pull you in and stay with you a long time.