Quotes
“One of the
best Westlake novels I’ve read.” Washington Post
“A
terrifying sprint for redemption and rescue with the reader kept in agonizing
suspense until the literal last page. Not to be missed.” Mystery Scene
“We’re all
in the presence of the master one last time.” Open Letters Review
“Halfway
into January and we already have the first great book of 2012…some of the
finest work of the author’s career. And that is truly saying something.” Vince Keenan, author and critic
“MWA Grand Master
Westlake shows his skill and versatility as an author in this posthumous crime
novel…Sharply written and insightful, this ‘lost’ novel is a worthy addition to
Westlake’s lengthy catalogue.” Publishers Weekly
“The
characters are well drawn, the dialog flows, and the chapters speed by, making
for a breezy, solid read. This late discovery is a welcomed treat for
Westlake’s many fans. A natural for all mystery collections.” Library Journal
“The Comedy Is Finished is a tense,
compelling story of captive, captors, and an FBI agent, but it’s also a
painfully insightful portrait of a very dark period in US history. All the main
characters’ lives have been affected by the war or Watergate, and Westlake, who
wrote the novel in the late 1970s, gives each plenty of opportunity to lament
what happened to them and relive some of this country’s darkest years. It’s
very different from Westlake’s beloved comic crime capers, and although readers
old enough to remember those years may find the memories dredged up to be
unpleasant, they will probably be hard-pressed to put the book down.” Booklist
“The story
is fascinating and compelling as can certainly be expected from Westlake.
Narrator Peter Berkrot’s flat California accent is well suited to the action.
His pacing moves the story along, and his characterizations are
terrific—especially his voice for the kidnapped comic. Verdict: Although the
1970s setting seems dated, the writing is crisp and the story moves quickly.
Westlake’s numerous fans will be thrilled to have this final novel. A fine
addition to twenieth-century mystery collections.” Library Journal (audio review)
“Peter
Berkrot’s narration is compelling, and he doesn’t let the story lag…His voices
are suited to the well-drawn characters…An absorbing narration.” AudioFile
