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263
Novel • Fiction
Los Angeles, California • 1940s
1990
Adult
18+ years
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
30,753 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
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.
30,753 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Daphne Monet / Ruby Hanks
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.
Raymond “Mouse” Alexander
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.
DeWitt Albright
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.
Joppy Shag
A bartender and former boxer whose introduction of Easy to Albright complicates their relationship and advances the plot.
Junior Fornay
A large bouncer known for his indifference and moral ambiguity. His interactions with Easy provide insight into issues of responsibility and blame.
Frank Green
Daphne's half-brother with a violent reputation. He maintains a complicated connection to Daphne throughout the story.
Odell Jones
A quiet and religious man involved in vices, who advises Easy. His presence underscores Easy's internal conflicts and decisions.
Todd Carter
A wealthy and powerful businessman who employs Albright to find Daphne. His character highlights themes of wealth, privilege, and obliviousness.
Matthew Teran
A powerful and grotesque figure with political ambitions. His character is entwined with the corruption and racism of LA's elite.
263
Novel • Fiction
Los Angeles, California • 1940s
1990
Adult
18+ years
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