8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A Perfect Debut, Sep 24 2007
By J. A. KONRATH "Thriller Author" - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: On the Ropes (Paperback)
I read a lot of crime novels. This is one of the best debuts I've ever read.
It's laugh out loud funny, plus it's crammed full of action, suspense, and a wonderfully complex mystery.
Duffy is a terrific character. Those who enjoy Robert B. Parker, Robert Crais, or newcomers like Jeff Shelby and Harry Hunsicker will feel right at home here. But beneath the wiescracks and fist fights is some real heart, written in a wonderfully readable style.
It's really that good.
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Gotta love Duffy and his sidekick Al (basset hound ), Jan 1 2008
By W. Kowalewsky - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: On the Ropes (Paperback)
The Amazon shorts whetted my appetite for "On the Ropes" by Tom Shreck. While reading the short stories I found myself with lots of questions and wanting to know more about the characters. I wanted to know more about the kind of person Duffy was, how he got Al, what made the Fearsome Foursome tick and if they had more in them than crazy conversations. "On the Ropes" answered all my questions and more. This book is action packed with mystery, terrorism, porn, child abuse, sex, drugs and Elvis tunes!
Duffy is a likeable character. He doesn't try to hide, make excuses for, or sugarcoat his faults. His belief in the human race endears him to you. He sees the good in people and he doesn't judge those who are down on their luck for what they've done or who they've become. Duffy sees both sides of the coin. But on the other hand, when it comes to bad guys he doesn't hesitate to act on his beliefs. Right or wrong Duffy acts on those beliefs and he doesn't let little things like the law or protocol get in his way, even if that means putting his boxing skills to the ultimate test.
My emotions ran the gamut with this book. I laughed, I was frustrated/cried, I was angry and I was elated. I couldn't stop turning the pages as I had to find out what happened next. Can't wait to find out what happens with Duffy and Al next!
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Completely entertaining, Nov 21 2007
By Fan of Fiction - Published on Amazon.com
This review is from: On the Ropes (Paperback)
Normally I stick to sci fi and fantasy books but, this book kept me entertained and was an easy read from start to finish. I will buy the sequels when they come out. Heres to hoping that another up and coming author can make it big.