Eight Million Ways to Die (Chivers Sound Library American Collections (Audio))

Rating:
Summary: Scudder Descends into the Depths
Review: "Eight Million Ways to Die" is a classic piece of hardboiled detective fiction that represents a turning point in the life of its hero, Matthew Scudder. Early on in the narrative, Scudder is told frankly by a young doctor after a two-day alcohol blackout, "if you drink, you'll die." Scared by the warning, Scudder takes a case he doesn't want in a despearte attempt to distract him from alcohol. His struggles with the bottle come across very real and are harrowing to behold. The case is a good one as well with Scudder attempting to track the manaical killer of a hooker who was trying to leave the life. Death is an ever constant theme, with the book's title being a riff on the old literary saying "there are eight million stories in the naked city."

This book is everything great private detective fiction should be; dark, cynical, violent and lonely. Frankly, I like Scudder better during this period than later on after he sobers up. If you agree, you'll love this book.

Rating:
Summary: Eight Million Ways to Die Blocks Best Scudder Novel Ever?
Review: Having only read one other Lawrence Block novel "A Dance at the Slaughterhouse", I was intrigued at the depth of Eight Million Ways to Die. The characters and the environment of New York being the backdrop for this story makes for an entertaining read. As well as Scudders unwillingness to accept that he's an alcoholic. The ending was a classic one. The way Block is able to bring to life the city as a main part of the plot in the story is amazing. Eight Million Ways to Die is a classic and will forever be remembered as one of the top 25 mystery novels of all time!

Other recommended books:
Death in Uptown by Michael Raleigh

Rating:
Summary: One of the Best (Mystery) Novels-Ever
Review: I read approximately 2-3 books a week. Admittedly, I am a big fan of Lawrence Block and particularly Matt Scudder. However, this book not only works as a mystery novel, but also as a portrait of a man battling his addiction. For me, a good ending is 75% of what makes a book great. This has a fantastic ending! This is definitely one of the best books I have ever read.