The Dishwasher

Bill Malone is a modern day Shane and this book is an excellent read.

Having read and enjoyed Committing Journalism, I really looked forward to reading Martin's fiction, and was not at all disappointed. His characters are vivid, real and detailed - and whether likable or not, you feel like you know them. But most of the characters ARE likeable - foilbles and flaws and all. The plot was a little silly - everything tied up too neatly in a bow at the end but what the heck, the author deserves to write about a little happiness after his years away. Looking forward to reading In the Hat next.

Martin does a masterful job describing the retooling of Bill Malone as he undergoes the transition from prisoner to free man. In a manner reminiscent of Edward Bunker, his prose is clean and blunt. Each twist in the story is somehow ominous and optimistic; Martin's descriptions of Malone's emotions are raw and fresh.Very well done and highly recommended.