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48 pages 1 hour read

Devil In A Blue Dress

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1990

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Book Brief

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Walter Mosley

Devil In A Blue Dress

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1990
Book Details
Pages

263

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Los Angeles, California • 1940s

Theme
Publication Year

1990

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In 1948 Los Angeles, WWII veteran Ezekiel "Easy" Rawlins, who is Black and recently unemployed, accepts a job from a ruthless white man to find a woman named Daphne Monet. Needing to pay his mortgage, Easy navigates a web of deceit, violence, and racial tension, uncovering secrets about Daphne and getting entangled with corrupt figures, ultimately becoming a private investigator. This book features sexual violence and racial slurs.

Mysterious

Dark

Gritty

Suspenseful

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.1

30,753 ratings

70%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Walter Mosley's Devil In A Blue Dress captivates with its vivid depiction of post-WWII Los Angeles and intricate plotting. Critics praise its rich character development and the compelling figure of Easy Rawlins. However, some find the pacing uneven and the conclusion predictable. Overall, it skillfully blends historical fiction and noir, offering a fresh take on the detective genre.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Devil In A Blue Dress?

Readers who enjoy Devil In A Blue Dress by Walter Mosley typically appreciate gripping noir detective stories set in post-WWII America, featuring complex characters and social commentary. Fans of Raymond Chandler's The Big Sleep or Chester Himes' A Rage in Harlem will find this novel’s richly detailed narrative and historical context compelling.

4.1

30,753 ratings

70%

Loved it

24%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Ezekiel “Easy” Rawlins

A sensitive World War II veteran in his late twenties who takes pride in his work and his status as a homeowner. He is drawn into a complex investigation that tests his principles and resilience.

A woman with a mysterious and dual identity, initially known as Daphne Monet. Her complex background and relationships shape a significant portion of the narrative.

Easy's friend known for his small stature and propensity for violence. His actions and relationship with Easy highlight key themes of morality and survival.

The businessman who hires Easy for a job, marked by his light attire and demeanor. His motivations are tied to themes of greed and exploitation.

A bartender and former boxer whose introduction of Easy to Albright complicates their relationship and advances the plot.

A large bouncer known for his indifference and moral ambiguity. His interactions with Easy provide insight into issues of responsibility and blame.

Daphne's half-brother with a violent reputation. He maintains a complicated connection to Daphne throughout the story.

A quiet and religious man involved in vices, who advises Easy. His presence underscores Easy's internal conflicts and decisions.

A wealthy and powerful businessman who employs Albright to find Daphne. His character highlights themes of wealth, privilege, and obliviousness.

A powerful and grotesque figure with political ambitions. His character is entwined with the corruption and racism of LA's elite.

Book Details
Pages

263

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Los Angeles, California • 1940s

Theme
Publication Year

1990

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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