Assessment:

Plot/Idea: In The Big Tilt, Flanigan delivers a layered and fully immersive mystery. Private investigator Peter O'Keefe's work becomes personal when an old high school flame emerges with accusations against a mutual acquaintance and aspiring politician--and then dies of a suspicious overdose. Meanwhile, O'Keefe is being pursued by thugs bent on vengeance.

Prose: Despite some of the weighty material--sexual assault, drug addiction--the prose maintains a comfortable warmth and readability. Flanigan handedly establishes the circumstances with in-scene development, tense action sequences, dialogue, and effective exposition.

Originality: Flanigan uplifts familiar mystery elements with authentic characterization and a well-spun storyline with threads that gratifyingly coalesce. 

Character/Execution: Flanigan brings the novel's characters to life. Though Peter O'Keefe's history of addiction and troubled relationships may first come across as a trope, the author explores his complexity in a manner that enhances his character. Readers will feel for Beverly--a victim and addict who's not fully defined by her affliction--and for Peter as he reflects on the changes the years have wrought.

Date Submitted: July 17, 2023