15 Jul Book Review of An Honest Living
Review of An Honest Living by Dwyer Murphy
As a fervent lover of crime fiction with a soft spot for stories that blur the lines between truth and deception, An Honest Living by Dwyer Murphy instantly piqued my interest. Having come from a background in law, Murphy’s journey from attorney to the editor-in-chief of CrimeReads seemed like a natural segue into captivating narrative territory—and it certainly did not disappoint. With its rich portrayal of a complex Brooklyn legal landscape, I felt as if I were not merely reading a story but engaging with a new friend on a barstool, soaking in their world in real time.
At its core, An Honest Living captures the essence of a seasoned but somewhat disenchanted lawyer navigating the intriguing and often absurd realities of both life and law in New York City. The unnamed protagonist, echoing elements of Murphy’s own experiences, embodies the notion that lawyers often feel they can "fix things or get to the bottom of them simply by talking to a lot of people." The lead character is both a reflection of Murphy’s more jaded perspective on legal matters and an engaging lens through which we explore a diverse cast—hustlers, writers, and real-estate moguls—all intertwined by the devious tango of honesty and crime.
One of the standout elements in Murphy’s writing is his insightful humor. For instance, when our attorney meets a woman named Anna Reddick, who seeks assistance regarding her husband’s shady dealings with rare legal texts, it sets off a chain of events that reveals deeper truths about identity and deceit. The narrative takes a clever twist when the real Anna Reddick emerges, sparking conflict and intrigue that had me eagerly turning the pages.
The dialogue is sharp, filled with repartee that keeps the pacing brisk. I found moments of introspection interspersed with witty exchanges that made me chuckle, reminding me of classic film noir. This blend of humor and a touch of cynicism makes Murphy’s narrative resonate profoundly with readers who appreciate both the light and dark sides of human nature.
Murphy sprinkles references to literature and film liberally throughout the novel, giving it a delightful layer of texture. With conversations about everything from classic fiction to popular New Yorkers slipping in and out of the dialogue, it feels like a love letter not just to New York itself but to the world of storytelling at large. One particularly memorable quote, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” serves as an astute reminder that in both law and life, the simplest truths often hold the most weight.
As I finished the book, I couldn’t help but ponder the implications of Murphy’s upcoming sequel set in Miami, which promises more of the whimsical chaos that makes his debut so enjoyable. It left me curious about the recurring characters and whether our unnamed attorney would finally earn a proper name to accompany his misadventures.
I wholeheartedly recommend An Honest Living to anyone who enjoys a story woven with complex characters and sharp observations about life and law. It’s not just a legal drama but also a celebration of modern storytelling that resonates beyond the courtroom. For readers who appreciate cheeky humor wrapped in a smattering of noir, this one is a must-read—and I assure you, just like sitting down with an old friend, you’ll finish it feeling just a bit wiser and infinitely entertained.
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