> because right now DOUBLE INDEMNITY stands alone--I can't
> think of another to put next to it. The novel is so lean and
> tight, and while I had seen the film several times NOTHING
> could have prepared me for that ending. Stunning,
> terrifying--nothing like it anywhere I've ever seen, and in
> the hands of almost any other writer that ending would have
> been corny rather than utterly blood-chilling.
> >
>
> I agree completely about your sentiments for Double
> Indemnity, the ending is absolutely chilling. Postman,
> Serenade, also great books.
DOUBLE INDEMNITY is a close cousin to POSTMAN in terms of excellence, and
it's one that I always recommend when asked for an essential reading list of
noir. I still contend, though, that POSTMAN is the better, more compelling,
novel of the two in nearly every way...but only just a bit. Franklin
Mystery put out a nice red-leatherbound (or faux leather), gold gilt edged
volume with both novels in it...a nice (and very affordable) way to read
both books back-to-back.
> For modern noir, going back no more than 10 years, I'd say
> Robbie's Wife by Russell Hill.
Couldn't agree more with Dave on this one...I share his special affinity for
this recent novel. I've yet to read a noir novel of this new century that
surpasses ROBBIE'S WIFE.
Ron C.
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