Choice of Evil

Any book by Vachss is part of a crusade against the exploitation of children, sexually or otherwise. That is a worthy cause, and in addition, the books are good. In many ways, Vachss is an eye-opener. He takes readers to places which are so hideous that they are hard to imagine, and he tells those readers not to accept the foulness and cruelty that children all over the world must endure on a daily basis. "Choice Of Evil" confronts the moral problems that arise when a super-intelligent mind deliberately choses to be evil, and the ugly results of such a person's actions. The book is disturbing, but extremely thought-provoking, and on top of that, it is a serious page-turner. Vachss is never dull. This novel is not an exception to that rule.

Andrew Vachss has a gift for exposing the ugliness masked under pretty gilding, and the glory of love hidden by hard exteriors. He knows the difference between talk and action, and he tells you the truth in a way you cannot forget. This novel presents a new level of excellence in his writing.

Vachss never fails to deliver a powerful story built to bowl the reader over. CHOICE has a multi-layered and complex plot that builds on the story of bisexual Crystal Beth, first introduced in the previous novel, SAFE HOUSE, and her effect on Burke, whom she loved. Vachss' writing, as always, is spare, yet richly evocative. Whether this is your first taste of Vachss, or the one you've been waiting for, you won't be disappointed!

All of Vachss' books are good, but this is the best yet. It weaves together old characters in new ways, and closes some gaps--like what happened to Strega? If you like Vachss, you'l lovethis one. If you've never tried Vachss, start here. Can't wait for the movie!

I've just finished Andrew Vachss' great new suspense novel, CHOICE OF EVIL. The plot is subtle and noirish, and sexually inquisitive in a way that Kubrick motioned towards in "Eyes Wide Shut," but was a little too slick to achieve. In the rest of his life, Vachss is a lawyer for children, and unlike the bleating hordes who attack adult sexuality by talking about "protecting kids", he has no beef with *any* form of consensual sex between adults. CHOICE OF EVIL displays his magnificent ability to show the bright line between the play of adults and acts done to children. He has always been very aware of and friendly toward the safe/sane/consensual folks. Best of all, he's written novels with sexual scenes so vibrant and exciting that a reader saving Vachss' books for bedtime is guaranteed a sated sleep. CHOICE OF EVIL is absolutely terrific. It's a book for adults in every sense of the word. Once you get a taste, you'll savor every bite.