Damnation Street is a gritty novel superbly blending contemporary themes with traditional pulp fiction.  With crisp narration, it takes readers to a familiar place: the world of noir/crime fiction, but in new ways.  Sporting archetypal characters that are fresh and inventive, this is a crime fiction delight.

Scott Weiss is a private detective with an instinctual sixth sense giving him special insight into human nature. He’s always one step ahead of clients and suspects alike. A Nero Wolfe of the streets, Weiss lives a lonely life – which makes his obsession with runaway prostitute Julie Wyant dangerous. Even though Weiss “knows” it can only end badly, he pushes on in his pursuit anyway.

Racing Weiss is man calling himself John Foy, an assassin and psychopath of the highest degree. Also obsessed with Julie, he’ll stop at nothing to possess her for his own sadistic ends. At the end of the road for both is Damnation Street, where two old enemies will finally meet. Hard on their heels is Weiss’ disgraced partner – maverick, burned-out military specialist Jim Bishop – but fate won’t allow him to arrive in time to stop the bloodshed.

Klavan is in fine form here, crafting a taut, engrossing storyline. Using a unique first-person narrative that only appears occasionally; he crafts a fast-paced, hard-hitting story. As a secondary character, Bishop shines – readers won’t want to like him, but they will. Weiss is the archetype of the noir detective: a man fighting for justice, standing firm but alone. This is a crime fiction gem sure to please.

Visit Klavan's website.
Comments (0)