In Blood Standard, Laird Barron introduces us to Isaiah Coleridge, a former mob enforcer from Alaska who finds himself in upstate New York investigating a disappearance. The book seamlessly blends elements of noir and crime fiction, showcasing Barron's talent for creating vivid settings and complex characters. As Isaiah delves into the mystery, his unique skill set and contemplative nature are put to the test, leading to a thrilling narrative filled with action, intrigue, and unexpected twists. The writing style is described as lyrical and atmospheric, with a focus on character development and immersive world-building that sets it apart from traditional thrillers.

Characters:

The characters are richly developed, particularly the protagonist, who embodies the duality of a brutal enforcer and a reflective thinker.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is sophisticated and descriptive, with a balance of lyrical passages and brutal action, which may not appeal to all thriller readers.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on a mob enforcer turned investigator who navigates his violent past while seeking to solve a disappearance, leading to chaotic confrontations.

Setting:

The vivid settings play a crucial role in establishing mood and reflecting the protagonist's internal struggles.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally brisk, though some might find it slowed by the contemplative nature of the prose.

Notes:

Isaiah Coleridge is the protagonist and a former mob enforcer.

He has a violent past shaped by his father, a ruthless soldier.

After working for a mafia boss, he gets exiled to Alaska.

Coleridge tries to start fresh in upstate New York after leaving Alaska.

His background as an enforcer leads him to investigate a disappearance.

Despite his tough exterior, he is intelligent and quotes literature, especially Greek mythology.

The writing has a unique style that may not suit all thriller readers.

Barron is known for creating nuanced characters, even minor ones.

The settings in the book are vivid and almost feel like characters themselves.

Alaska is depicted as a harsh and ancient land, influencing Coleridge's character.

The narrative combines crime thriller elements with hints of cosmic horror in later books.

The series explores themes of redemption and the complexities of violence.

The first book, Blood Standard, is followed by Black Mountain and Worse Angels.

Coleridge is described as a 'warrior poet,' possessing an odd sense of duty and honor.

Laird Barron transitioned from horror to crime fiction in this series.

Barron's prose offers a rich sense of place, contributing to the story's atmosphere.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include high levels of violence and mentions of intimidation.

From The Publisher:

Award-winning author Laird Barron makes his crime fiction debut with a novel set in the underbelly of upstate New York that's as hardboiled and punchy as a swift right hook to the jaw-a classic noir for fans of James Ellroy and John D. Macdonald.

Isaiah Coleridge is a mob enforcer in Alaska-he's tough, seen a lot, and dished out more. But when he forcibly ends the moneymaking scheme of a made man, he gets in the kind of trouble that can lead to a bullet behind the ear. Saved by the grace of his boss and exiled to upstate New York, Isaiah begins a new life, a quiet life without gunshots or explosions. Except a teenage girl disappears, and Isaiah isn't one to let that slip by. And delving into the underworld to track this missing girl will get him exactly the kind of notice he was warned to avoid.

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Blood Standard

Laird Barron

Book 1 in the series:Isaiah Coleridge