A Gambling Man (Aloysius Archer)

Oh dear what went wrong what was Mr Baldacci thinking ? or not as the case maybe. After reading the first book in this series I thought what an amazing exciting new character a very entertaining and pleasurable book to read written with the usual quality of Mr Baldacci. I was certainly pleased at the time of ordering this second in the series outing for Aloysius Archer to have another chance to visit this excellent character until I started reading it. I thought there was something wrong almost straight away but I persevered until I was convinced that this was definitely the most boring book I have ever read, it was absolute dribble I actually can’t believe Mr Baldacci could write as bad as this and feel very let down, now you might be forgiven for thinking I’m getting personal about the quality of this book well I have several other ardent David Baldacci fans who are friends and all think equally about Mr Baldacci and his superb ability to write incredible books with incredible characters and story lines and like me they all have a complete collection of his books and these people are of the same opinion as me they thought it was dribble as well and were equally disappointed in this very dull outing that some actually read through to the very end and wished they had not. Mr Baldacci you are an amazing writer of novels and have provided me with superb entertainment over the years please don’t write another book as boring as this again I certainly look forward to your next book and hope that it’s a book created by your usual excellent talents, after all anybody of your amazing talent is entitled to have an off day having already written so many excellent books so here’s to your next novel and let’s hope it is up to your usual excellent standard.

Sometimes lady luck glances in Aloysius Archer's direction and he is able to take full advantage. A stop at a casino in Reno on his way to Bay Town, California, results in him gaining a travelling companion, a vehicle of his own and a few dollars in his pocket. Of course Archer's luck never lasts and by the time he arrives at his destination he's been reminded of that a few times. He does, at least, have a new job to go to and not every 2nd World War veteran has that. His new boss, Willie Dash, a quick thinking, experienced private eye isn't swimming in cases but one lands on his doorstep at almost the same time as Archer. His travelling companion, Liberty Callahan, was on her way to Hollywood but decides to stay a while in Bay Town and gets herself a job at a burlesque club where Archer finds himself and Dash investigating a blackmail case which is about to get very dangerous very quickly. He likes his new home town but wonders if he'll live long enough to to experience its highlights. This is the second Archer book and is as professionally executed as the first. Archer now has a very nice ride and a lady friend who plans to be the next big thing to hit Hollywood. He also has a boss who he was recommended to by the cop from the first book. That is the only connection to 'One Good Deed' and so this can easily be read as a standalone although that is also an excellent read. As with all David Baldacci books there is a lot of description but there are clues and relevant information hidden throughout. He also paints a vivid picture of smallish town America after the war in the sunshine state, although it seems to rain quite a bit! The case involving the cream of Bay Town society is complex, evenly paced, and draws you in immediately. The pace of life is not hectic, the coroner smokes at the crime scene and you'll need change for the phone readily to hand all of which is delivered in a wonderfully atmospheric and realistic manner. I was glad I didn't work the solution out any faster than Archer as it made for an extremely satisfying read from the first chapter to the last. Now I just have to wait to find out what happens next. I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it.

Halfway through this new novel by David baldaccci. Love it.the second in A new series..the first was one good deed. Set in the late 40's. And he captures the period so well. Archer or to give his full name.Aloysius Archer as been released from prison. He's a war vet. He was innocent but ended up in the prison on a cooked up Charge. Anyway he served probation In a town called poca city near nevada Vegas. Needless to say he gets entangled with alluring femme fatales And a local mr Big. And now his adventures are carrying on In a gambling man.

Having read everything Mr. B has written, I am having a hard time getting “into” this book. Usually I have to MAKE myself put down one of his books; this one.....I have had 8 days and am only on page 84. Hoping it will pick up......with this one Imhave to MAKE myself read a few pages. Sooo disappointed