The Depression, the dustbowl, a handful of con artists. Spanish Fly is a compelling read -- hilarious, rich in historical detail, and oh-so-smart. Will Ferguson makes me feel like I'm watching a card trick, the way he keeps on surprising me even though I'm watching so closely. ( )

The title of this book has now changed from Spanish Fly - to - Hustle. The Story is good and at times fast paced at other times slow. The cons were well explained although perhaps some times too much detail hence the slowing down of the pace. Main characters I liked and the ending quite tidy considering this is a book about cons and con artists the ending I always thought would be and indeed had to be some kind of con - but then again a lot of endings are just that - 'cons' ( )

http://books.moonsoar.com/archives/2008/02/17/spanish-fly/ ( )

Ferguson's prose creates a world in which you become part of. His attention to detail and description of the cons is robust but delivered in a way that doesn't overpower the story. ( )

Ferguson takes you to a world of beautiful motor cars, con artists and drama just before WWII. There's even a soundtrack of jazz music. The cons are fascinating and the conclusion well delivered - very enjoyable. ( )