The 25th Hour by David Benioff is a character-driven novel that follows Monty Montgomery, a drug dealer facing a seven-year prison sentence. The book delves into Monty's last 24 hours of freedom, exploring his relationships with his girlfriend, friends, and father, as well as his internal struggles. The writing style of the book is described as choppy yet character-focused, with a mix of humor and heartbreaking moments that keep the readers engaged.

Characters:

The characters are deeply flawed yet relatable, each grappling with their life choices and circumstances, enriching the story's emotional landscape.

Writing/Prose:

The prose is engaging and fluid, although some readers feel it is overly descriptive rather than succinct.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative centers on a drug dealer's final 24 hours before incarceration, highlighting themes of personal regret and the elusive notion of change.

Setting:

New York City serves as a vivid backdrop, greatly influencing the characters and their relationships.

Pacing:

The pacing is leisurely, often focusing on character introspection, which may leave some readers wanting more action.

Notes:

David Benioff wrote The 25th Hour as his first novel.

The book is a character study of Monty, a drug dealer facing prison.

Monty spends his final day before prison reflecting on his life.

The novel features strong character development and vivid scenes.

Monty has complex relationships with his friends and girlfriend, Naturelle.

Doyle, Monty's pit bull, becomes an entertaining character too.

The novel highlights the struggles of characters trying to change their lives.

Monty's story includes themes of hope and potential for change.

Benioff also wrote the screenplay for the movie adaptation.

The book strongly portrays the setting of New York City.

Critics have noted the prose can be overwritten, preferring simpler styles.

Benioff's writing style is praised for its flow and readability.

The ending leaves readers with unresolved feelings despite strong themes.

Characters experience growth but often fall short of fully transforming.

The book's depth surprised some readers who found initial characters superficial.

One reviewer compared the novel to American Psycho and highlighted NYC as a critical backdrop.

The writing has been called both funny and heartbreaking.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include drug use, foul language, and themes of crime and morality.

From The Publisher:

Monty Brogan joins his best friends, bond trader Frank Slattery and English teacher Jakob Elinsky, on a final night on the town before serving out a sentence at the Otisvile federal prison, and executes a shocking plan.

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The 25th Hour

David Benioff