Book Review: Sandman Slim by Richard Kadrey

In the Urban Fantasy genre, Sandman Slim was one of the most hyped UF/fantasy debuts of 2010.  Author reviews are worthless, but when William Gibson and Charlaine Harris agree and the professional reviews are kind, it was worth a try.  Unfortunately, like most hyped books, this one doesn’t live up to its press, though it was a quick, fun read.

• Title: Sandman Slim
  
• Author:  Richard Kadrey
• Type:  Paranormal UF
• Genre:  Revenge tale of a live human returned from Hell
• Sub-genre:  Magic and death is alive and well in LA
• My Grade: C  (3.0*)
  
• Rating:  NC-17
• Length and price:  Plus novel – about 100,000+ $7.99 with discounts available
• Where Available:  Available at most bookstores
• FTC Disclosure:  purchased from online bookstore

Book Review: The Sentry by Robert Crais

• Title: The Sentry (Joe Pike Book #3)
  
• Author:  Robert Crais
• Type:  Mystery Thriller
• Genre:  Avenging crusader meets twisted reality
• Sub-genre:  Pike breaks up a beatdown of a shop owner and gets involved when they disappear
• My Grade: B- (3.8*)
  
• Rating:  PG-13
• Length and price:  Full novel – about 90,000 words for $14.00-16.00 on sale; list $26.95
• Where Available:  Available at most bookstores
• FTC Disclosure:  purchased from online bookstore