The Main

I read approximately 50 titles per year, and I read my first Trevanian novel last year. This is a novel of a different style; a throw back to character definition, plot extension, and the ability to place the reader into the time and location of the story. While not exciting (like Patterson, Sandford or Connelly), Trevanian has the talent that transports the reader into the novel; you learn about the characters, their thoughts and their lives. I would put this novel in the category of Updike and Irving. In only 325 pages, Trevanian develops complex characters that you feel for and understand. The plot, though well thought out and nicely presented, is not what brings you back to keep reading; it's the characters do that. If you're looking for a quick, non-thinking book for the beach, keep looking. However, if you are tired of the same old stuff, give it try.

I liked Trevanian's earlier works like Eiger Sanction, but their heroes tended to be a little too perfect, a little too James Bondian (Bond books, not movies!)The Main features a much more interesting hero, an old French-Canadian cop who has failed in many ways and is definitely not hip to new trends in policing. He is a great street cop whose lifetime of prowling gives us an insider's view of the city.The earlier works are thrillers, but this is a minor masterpiece.

The Main is a fine novel. Set on the mean streets of a Canadian city this story follows a middle aged cop trying to keep with the times, to take care of the people his turf, solve crimes, and help his friends--not all of which is mutually compatible. It is book full of humanity and human weakness, expertly framed by great story telling. Another testament to the versatility of the author.

I read it in two days. After I finished, I just sat with it inmy lap and thought about it, musing the characters. I can't say thattoo many books have had that effect...WRITE MORE, TREVANIAN...

That book is pretty different from the other pieces of Trevanian. First of all, there is barely action. Well, there are, but these are only details. This is a story of a town, and its ordinary people. While reading it, I went like: "Hey, nothing's happening, yet I still want to keep on reading". That is how I usually react when reading a Steinbeck book. For those who liked Trevainian just by reading Hemlock's adventures, you may not like this one. Yet, it is a great novel. The best part was its conclusion. It suprised me. See, that surely ain't an action novel (other Trevanian book are not either. However someone can just read them as if they are, and miss the depth of the novels).