The Absolution of Roberto Acestes Laing
I received a promotional copy through the First Reads program.Rating: Soft 4 - more 3 1/2 than 4.
It's definitely original. I got the feeling I was reading something different, something unusual. There's a stripped-down quality that works, in the novel proper as well as in the films described in the novel.
That being said, I never really bought Laing's explanation for why the films had to be destroyed. Also, the ending was a bit of an anti-climax.
It's worth mentioning that a Goodreads reviewer who's more of a cult film buff than I am gave this book a harsh review.
(I don't usually point out proofing overlooks, but Joe Lewis for Joe Louis? Come on, man.)
