Martin Quinn: A Novel of Suspense

I read this novel a few years ago - and decided to reread it. A well written novel about so much more than suspense and criminals. Lee writes about neighborhoods that change, life suspended by memories, mistakes, and decisions, internal struggle, the relationships we create, and survival. The characters are crafted superbly. More than anything, I truly enjoyed following the psychology of Martin Quinn. Some beautifully written passages. Read it.

This is a marvelous novel, so complete, so strong, it's hard to believe it's Lee's first. The language is absolutely true to the characters and their environment, and the dialogue is so dead-on there's not a false note in more than 300 pages. And this is a novel, not a thriller, crimer, mystery or suspense, as the editor/publisher mistakenly calls it. (Do not be mislead by the readers' comments below, disappointed it's not a mystery, etc.) The themes are classic, from the complexity of father-son, mother-daughter relationships, to individual responsibilty and the impact of group morality. I was lead to this fine novel by Lee's terrific short story "Feast of Saint Anthony" in the literary magazine "Prairie Schooner" (Summer 2007), and the promise of that read was more than fulfilled.

It is a great book! Not your typical gangster suspense story. The book comes alive with the setting in NYC and characters. I had an image for each character in my mind. I could not put it down, what a great ending!

The story is tough and gritty, the protagonist is molded on the typical tough guy but you soon learn he is completely unique. The writing style and story will keep you intrigued. It is a timeless story that takes place in Brooklyn and Manhattan, an intense love story playing out in the midst of Little Odessa. Original and smart.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Although it took me a short while to adapt to the author's style, the story and the characters held my attention throughout. It's a story of loyalty, ambition, love and betrayal, seen through the eyes of a young man trying to make his way through the New York City underworld. It's one of those books that you want to power through so you can see how things turn out, but at the same time, you don't want it to end. Pick it up - you won't be disappointed. I only hope Anthony Lee's subsequent efforts can live up to my now-heightened expectations.