The Dreadful Lemon Sky by John D. MacDonald

In 'The Dreadful Lemon Sky,' Travis McGee finds himself entangled in a high-stakes mystery when an old acquaintance, Carolyn Milligan, begs him to safeguard a package full of cash. With a promise of ten grand and no questions asked, Travis agrees, but when Carolyn dies in a seemingly accidental roadside incident just two weeks later, he becomes obsessed with uncovering the truth behind her death. His investigation leads him down a treacherous path filled with danger and deception, as he strives to understand what Carolyn was involved in and why she had to die. The novel is a gripping tale of suspense and intrigue, showcasing Travis McGee's resourcefulness and determination as he navigates a world of secrets and lies. With its fast-paced action and compelling characters, 'The Dreadful Lemon Sky' is a classic example of the mystery and thriller genres, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

Reviews

MysteryFile · 2024-09-03

excellent 4.50

The book is terrific and highly enjoyable, with a gripping narrative that keeps the reader engaged. The protagonist's mix of compassion and attitude is particularly noteworthy.

This novel is a standout in the genre, with a suspenseful and professional-grade narrative that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. The protagonist is a deft mix of compassion and attitude, making her both relatable and compelling. The story's pacing is excellent, and the climactic sequence involving a jeep with a blade and some fire ants is top-notch. The author's ability to create a gripping narrative that keeps the reader engaged is particularly noteworthy, and it's clear that this is a novel that will stay with the reader long after the final page.

Quick quotes

Dreadful Lemon Sky is terrific. I couldn't believe how much I enjoyed it.

I read it in a day because I literally could not put it down.

The heroine, a deft mix of compassion and attitude, would be a welcome addition to any bookshelf.

Goodreads · 2022-06-25

mixed 3.50

The novel is well-written but depressing, with a protagonist whose actions are often unlikable. On re-reading, the depth of the story becomes more apparent, though the protagonist's behavior remains a significant flaw.

This crime novel is a masterclass in writing, with a complex protagonist who is both compelling and deeply flawed. The story's depressing tone is a significant factor, and it's clear that the author intended to create a character who is as unlikable as he is intriguing. On re-reading, the depth of the story becomes more apparent, and the protagonist's actions, while still problematic, are more understandable in the context of the narrative. The novel's exploration of themes such as redemption and the consequences of one's actions is particularly noteworthy, and it's clear that the author has a deep understanding of the human condition.

Quick quotes

When I first read The Dreadful Lemon Sky, I appreciated it as a well-written but depressing crime novel.

On re-reading the book years later, I now realize that the protagonist's actions are often unlikable.

The story's depressing tone is a significant factor, and it's clear that the author intended to create a character who is as unlikable as he is intriguing.

Mostly Old Books and Rust · 2022-06-25

good 4.00

The novel features plenty of good action scenes and a top-notch climactic sequence. The protagonist's actions are often unlikable, but the story's exploration of themes such as redemption and the consequences of one's actions is particularly noteworthy.

This crime novel is a masterclass in writing, with a complex protagonist who is both compelling and deeply flawed. The story's depressing tone is a significant factor, and it's clear that the author intended to create a character who is as unlikable as he is intriguing. The novel's exploration of themes such as redemption and the consequences of one's actions is particularly noteworthy, and it's clear that the author has a deep understanding of the human condition. The action scenes are well-crafted, and the climactic sequence involving a jeep with a blade and some fire ants is top-notch. The story's pacing is excellent, and the author's ability to create a gripping narrative that keeps the reader engaged is particularly noteworthy.

Quick quotes

As usual, plenty of good action scenes and the climactic sequence involving a jeep with a blade and some fire ants is top notch.

This book also features a complex protagonist who is both compelling and deeply flawed.

The story's exploration of themes such as redemption and the consequences of one's actions is particularly noteworthy.

Appears in Lists

John D. MacDonald's Travis McGee Novels, Ranked