Fools Die

by Mario Puzo
Fools Die cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Contemporary Fiction
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Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 10674
  • Added: 2026-02-02
  • Updated: 2026-02-02
  • ISBN: 9780099418351
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 1992-01-01
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Fools Die delves into the interconnected realms of big-time gambling, publishing, and the film industry, where the lines between power and corruption are blurred. The novel follows Merlyn and his brother Artie as they traverse from New York to Las Vegas, adhering to their own unique code of honor amidst the chaos. The story explores the complexities of human nature and the consequences of unchecked ambition, set against the backdrop of these glamorous yet treacherous industries. With a blend of dark humor and sharp social commentary, the narrative offers a gripping tale of brotherhood, betrayal, and the relentless pursuit of success.

Reviews
Lino Matteo's Version - WordPress · Lino Matteo · 2021-08-21
intriguing 3.50

The book feels real and confusing, mirroring the complexities of life. It leaves a lingering sense of authenticity.

Lino Matteo appreciates the book's realistic portrayal of life, noting its confusing yet authentic nature. They suggest that the book's episodic structure contributes to its realism, making it feel like a true reflection of life's unpredictability. Despite not having studied Mario Puzo's life, the reviewer feels a strong connection to the narrative, which they find both engaging and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    It feels real.

    It feels confusing.

    Real life is like that sometimes.

Reddit - r/books · 2020-01-01
brilliant 4.50

This book is brilliant and underrated, weaving 200 short stories into a cohesive masterpiece. It stands out as a unique and captivating work.

The reviewer finds this book to be a hidden gem, praising its intricate structure and the way it seamlessly combines multiple short stories. They highlight the book's brilliance and uniqueness, suggesting that it is often overlooked despite its exceptional quality. The reviewer is particularly impressed by how the stories intertwine, creating a rich and engaging narrative that stands out in Puzo's body of work.

Quick quotes

    It is brilliant, and completely underrated.

    It is 200 amazing short stories woven together into one work of art.

    I have recommended it to a lot of people.

Kirkus Reviews · 2000-01-01
entertaining 4.00

The book is a tasty tale of supernatural mayhem that fans of King and Crichton will enjoy. It's entertaining, though not always tasteful.

The reviewer from Kirkus Reviews describes the book as a delightful mix of supernatural chaos that will appeal to fans of popular authors like Stephen King and Michael Crichton. They acknowledge the book's entertainment value, noting that it's a fun read despite some moments that may not be to everyone's taste. The reviewer suggests that the book's unique blend of elements makes it a standout choice for those looking for an engaging and thrilling narrative.

Quick quotes

    A tasty, if not always tasteful, tale of supernatural mayhem.

    Fans of King and Crichton alike will enjoy.

    It's entertaining.

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