March 18, 2011
“Before I had read 15 pages of Thomas Mullen’s latest, now out in paperback, I was deeply hooked. The novel is a 1930’s gangster drama with fabulous elements. It reminds me of Bonnie and Clyde—with magical realism, snappy historical fiction and full-throttle entertainment. I loved the titular characters—dashing criminal Jason Fireson and his angry, idealistic youngest brother, Whit. I loved the brothers’ dames—rebellious heiress Darcy and tough and earthy Ronnie. I loved the bank robberies, the hideouts, the shootouts and the miracles. If your book club has read The Worst Hard Time or The Grapes of Wrath, this novel would be fun to read and discuss for another perspective on the Great Depression. Also, if you liked the movies ‘The Brothers Bloom’ and ‘Miller’s Crossing,’ this is a must-read!”—Tegan Tigani, Queen Anne Books, Seattle