I recently developed an interest in Joe Lansdale after hearing all the hype about "Cold in July ", a film version of one of this author's books. I knew about Lansdale but he has been one of those writers I unfortunately kept putting on the back burner in lieu of other "must read" stuff. Despite a few minor reservations, I ended up enjoying "Sunset and Sawdust" so much that upon finishing it I immediately picked up another one of his books.
I think the vividly portrayed and carefully constructed characters set this story above the ordinary. Yes, Lonsdale is a fine writer capable of flinging similes and metaphors as well as the best literary writers working today. After reading this well paced and clever story, I felt my time had been well spent.
