“The author may be a stickler for facts, but he also knows what contributes to a rollicking tale.” —The Washington Post Book World

“A fact-drenched style that lets real-life characters speak for themselves.” —Chicago Sun-Times

“The author has drawn on his prize-winning biography of James M. Cain to give his colorful characters and dark situations a depth that transcends the glib efforts of those who employ real people as mere walk-ons.” —Dallas Morning News