If Ian Fleming had a sense of humor...

books:


	• The Gun Seller Hugh Laurie Washington Square Press, 1998 - 368 pages average customer review:based on 105 reviews view larger image
	for more information click here

highly recommended

If Ian Fleming had a sense of humor...

In terms of sheer entertainment value, The Gun Seller is what every other piece of escapist fiction should aspire to be. It's smart, fast-paced, well written, and absolutely hilarious. Although it lacks the mind-bending thought experiments of say, the Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy, the book certainly does posses the unforgettable sideways wit of Douglas Adams. It's full of razor-sharp, delicately sardonic observations and endearing sarcasm, not to mention a clutch of similes and metaphors that would make P.G. Wodehouse proud. Indeed, the novel is so fun to read that even when its plot becomes a bit convoluted (the climax does seem to be a bit unusually populated by plot holes and unbelievable developments), one doesn't feel tempted to put it down. It is, as the cliché goes, a non-stop thrill ride.

for more information click here

not exactly "House" but very good

Fans of Laurie's Doctor House will not find an exact match in this novel, but they won't be disappointed either. Thomas Lang has much of the author's own sarcastic, biting wit about him, and he comes across as much more interesting than your typical spy/thriller hero because of it.

Humor is a strong part of this, and the inner monologue shared with the reader is full of self-deprecating, ironic comments, and the text is rife with send ups of standard cliches. There are a few times he goes over the top with these, but it suits the style and the tone of the book perfectly so those are easily overlooked.

Language is a bit strong for my personal tastes, but certainly in bounds for the setting and the genre.

A strong ending, with a few unexpected twists. Overall a fine novel and I hope to see more from him.

for more information click here

THIS IS A MUST READ!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This book is well written and quite hughlarieous. Mr. Laurie add quite an interesting spin on his characters and provides a vivid and lively description of the characters and places in the book. Mr. Laurie use of comedy, drama and suspense make this book a must read. I can't sing enough praises about it. It was so good that I have just started reading it again.

Great Stuff... Hoping for More...

I just had to read this book. I had to read it because of the author, Hugh Laurie. He is Dr. House on TV. And he is a multifaceted guy. Until I saw a quick interview with him at the Superbowl, I had no idea he was British. I know, I know, what about A Bit of Fry and Laurie, or Blackadder, or Jeeves and Wooster. I never heard of those shows or any of his other previous work, but I thought, if his writing reflects any of his characterization and dialog skills on House, then it could be a worthwhile read. On top of all his creative accomplishments, his bio includes "[Hugh Laurie] is an avid motor cyclist." And that closed the deal.

For lack of a better term/category/genre, this is a spy novel. Albeit a pretty funny romp through the world of the CIA, British intelligence, terrorism and arms dealing, it is still at its heart a spy thriller. And I would say it is quite good. A quick and very entertaining read. The main character is a great and witty personality. There is a lot going on here, so it actually falls into the Thinker category too. You're never quite sure who is doing what and to whom. All of this makes for a good read. There is no groundbreaking stuff here, but it still qualifies for my 4 stars as a great entertaining read. You won't be disappointed. And if you're familiar with Mr. Laurie's various dramatic and comedic work, you will like it even more.

The wit of the writer carries through the entire book and I was pleasantly pleased with the application of humor. There is a brief interview with Hugh Laurie in the back of the book in which he is asked what inspired him to write this book. His response was that he had taken a close look at his humdrum life and decided to make up a life. He just wanted to fantasize an adventure.

In my opinion, that is a great way to write a book! Well done, Hugh, well done.

for more information click here

Witty as can be!

I purchased this book for a friend who is also obsessed with house, md. The book is really witty and very analytical. I love it.

reviews: 1, 2, page 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12

hot

not?

What's your opinion?

Write a review and share your thoughts!

recommendations

I'm so tired (from being up all night reading these books!)
Hiaasen, Moore, and some you may not have heard of...
Read Some Good Books Along With Me
Favourite recent(ish) fiction
Fun Summer Reads!

search for books
gun seller, gun, seller

Impressum / about us