It's not that I haven't been reading much lately. I've read plenty of books since Empire of the Ants, it's just that they have all been old books, ones I have had for quite some time and have read before. Carl Hiaasen's latest isn't even in paperback yet (as I understand) and I don't buy hardbacks often, but it's OK because I borrowed this one from Fiona's brother Dan. If you've ever read anything by Carl Hiaasen before you'll know the characters before they get introduced and the setting goes without saying. If, on the other hand, this is your first introduction to Mr. Hiaasen's body of work, then you'll need to be told that all his books share certain similarities mainly involving Florida, a level-headed, but not necessarily good-looking (although he is in this one) hero, some ugly bad guys and at least one woman who's a bit of a tough cookie. Of late, his books have also included a very entertaining character that used to be governor of Florida but turned his back on civilisation and mainly subsists on roadkill and toad sweat and Stormy Weather is no exception.

Of course, familiarity doesn't always breed contempt and I was looking forward to reading this story immensely. Carl Hiaasen has a great way with characters that brings to mind some of Elmore Leonard's funnier tales and his locations seem very authentic. Nevertheless, this tale of post-hurricane chicanery, treachery, adultery and fraud fails to satisfy completely because of its many similarities with the stories that precede it. That having been said, if you like Carl Hiaasen stories, you'll love this one, possibly his best other than Strip Tease, if you haven't read him before, do, he's very good. But, I know you're supposed to write about what you know Mr. Hiaasen, but can we have a different story next time with different characters and especially setting? What about a science fiction tale, hmm?

Ben gives it:

Price: ?
Published by: ?
(It was a book club printing...)

last updated: 20th April 1997