Hollywood Noir

Since I don’t have time to review everything I read, I’ve sort of pegged this series as a rate-only in the past. However, the consistency of how good they are for a series based on a TV show leads me to write a few words about the ones I’ve read.

Hollywood Noir is, as you’d expect, a merging of old-school hardboiled detective noir with the world of Angel and Cordy and Doyle, and also Kate. I thought it was a bit too heavy on the Slade aspect initially, as he was in danger of becoming a caricature for a while; and an unlikable violent one at that. But the story evolved, and by the end it was not only a great story, but a perfect blend of past and present, of human and not human worlds. Hollywood Noir had action, emotion, mystery, show more and a tremendously satisfying ending involving lost love, a daughter of sorts, and bringing peace and closure.

This was terrific, with all the characters being true to the show. I’m pretty selective with these, realizing as with any series (Star Trek of any kind especially) the quality of writing and story can wildly vary from pretty great to pretty bad. By being selective I’ve found some real winners that are keepers in the Angel world; stories I’ll read again at some point. Jeffrey J. Mariotte can always be counted on for a good story and enjoyable read in the Angel world from my experience, but a few other writers have penned enjoyable entries as well.

Since I’m using my review for Hollywood Noir also as a review for the entries I’ve read and previously only rated, I’ll recommend not only Hollywood Noir, which was terrific, but the others I’ve found very enjoyable.

Hollywood Noir — Jeffrey J. Mariotte
Sanctuary — Jeffrey J. Mariotte
Haunted — Jeffrey J. Mariotte
Image — Mel Odom
Bruja — Mel Odom
Soul Trade — Thomas E. Sniegoski

I highly recommend Hollywood Noir and all the titles listed above if you’re a fan. Since I have Endangered Species by Nancy Holder in hardcover, that will be my next one when I’m in the mood for it. Hollywood Noir is a really good one! show less

"Hollywood Noir" is an Angel tie in novel that hits every button. This is perfect "Angel". It's classic hardboiled LA detective and really takes advantage of the hit parade of LA characters and classic spots/scenes. It's totally Mullholand Drive/Chinatown/LA Confidential/Perry Masonesque.

Doyle, Angel and Cordelia are tracking down a cigarette girl named Betty McCoy. But they're not the only ones to do so. There's a new P.I. in town, Mike Slade. Angel and his troops find that their research leads them directly to Slade.