The Convict and Other Stories

by James Lee Burke
The Convict and Other Stories cover
Good Books rating 4.33
Short Story Collections
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Technical
  • ID: 6547
  • Added: 2025-11-21
  • Updated: 2025-11-21
  • ISBN: 9781451618471
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2010-07-13
  • Reviews: 3

James Lee Burke, a two-time Edgar Award winner, is celebrated for his vivid and suspenseful portrayals of the Deep South. This anthology offers a dozen short stories set in his most beloved milieu, the Gulf Coast, where the landscape is as much a character as the people who inhabit it. The stories crackle with violence and menace, showcasing Burke's flair for gripping storytelling and his urbane writing style. /n/n Each tale delves into the complex lives of the people in this region, exploring themes of hope and despair against the backdrop of the bayou. Burke's ability to weave intricate narratives with a rich, atmospheric setting makes this collection a must-read for fans of Southern Gothic literature and crime fiction.

Reviews
Amazon · 2025-11-21
great 4.50

The anthology is described as stunning, taking readers back to the Gulf Coast with complex and fascinating tales. The stories are praised for their depth and intrigue.

The reviewer describes this anthology as stunning, highlighting the author's ability to transport readers to the Gulf Coast through complex and fascinating tales. They appreciate the depth and intrigue of the stories, which are described as crackling with energy. The reviewer finds the collection to be a remarkable showcase of the author's storytelling prowess.

Quick quotes

    This stunning anthology takes us back to where Burke's heart and soul beat—the steamy, seamy Gulf Coast.

    Complex and fascinating tales that crackle with energy.

    A remarkable showcase of the author's storytelling prowess.

Goodreads · 2025-11-21
good 3.50

The collection features some outstanding stories, even those less favored are well-written. The reviewer appreciates the author's skill in storytelling.

The reviewer notes that while not every story in the collection resonated with them, each one is well-written and showcases the author's talent. They highlight the complexity and depth of the stories, particularly those set in the Gulf Coast. The reviewer acknowledges the author's ability to create compelling narratives that engage the reader.

Quick quotes

    There's some great stuff in this early collection from James Lee Burke.

    Even the stories I didn't like as much were well written.

    The stories crackle with energy and complexity.

Infamous Ginger · 2010-08-11
excellent 5.00

The collection is praised for its engaging stories and the reviewer enjoyed reading it thoroughly. They are eager to explore more of the author's work.

The reviewer found this collection to be a delightful read, highlighting the engaging nature of the stories. They particularly appreciated the author's ability to draw them in and are looking forward to reading more of his work. The stories are described as captivating and well-crafted, making it a collection that stands out.

Quick quotes

    I really enjoyed reading his collection and will read more.

    James Lee Burke's stories are captivating and well-crafted.

    This collection stands out with its engaging narratives.

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