Tilt-a-Whirl

This was a great book, but not great literature. If you are looking for a sophisticated crime drama with deep meaning this book will not please. It is however a a fast paced read with very likeable characters that catch your interest and create a desire to know what is next. It was the first book in a while that I couldn't wait see what was next and found myself making time to finish listening to.

I'm a huge fan of crime fiction, legal thrillers, etc., and this book wasn't the most challenging story. But two things made it a great listen for me: the reader was outstanding and the author nailed the entire Jersey Shore -- from the peculiarities and vulgarities of Jerseyans language to the tacky and freewheeling world of beach life. As a native of the area, it was just like being there. This book won't enlighten you or change your life, but it is a good listen and a fine bit of mind candy to pass some hours - maybe while you lay on the beach at the Jersey Shore.

This book--and the rest of the author's "John Ceepak" mysteries--are hilarious and entertaining visits to the New Jersey shore, where local cops--a former MP and a surfer dude--track down bad guys in fictional Sea Haven. TILT-A-WHIRL, the first in the series, won the 2006 Anthony Award for "Best First Mystery" and will hook you on going back for more (all available here on audible.com). The dialog is crisp and full of sharp humor, made even better by the delivery of the excellent narrator. (If you've spent any time on the "Joisey" shore, you'll appreciate him even more!)

I got such a laugh from this book I visited the author's Website, which is also funny and entertaining. Be sure to download the perfectly believable Sea Haven visitor map, which shows where all the best spots are located! I'm hopping the next installment will be on audible in time for summer!

In my humble opinion:
I guess if you are looking for a light beach read that requires no cerebral effort it isn't horrible, but there was little humor, quirk or otherwise redeeming value to the story.

Also, it took about 10 minutes to figure out who, a little longer to figure out why.

I am not against this type of fiction/genre (pulp?), I have read each and every lame Eve Dallas story and enjoyed them for the most part, but even those have underlying intelligence believe it or not. This story had very little to satisfy.

I don't know which reviewer compared it to Wambaug (maybe my book club), but NO NO NO, not even close.

One reviewer said it was juvenile, that is about right even though it lacked any really funny juvenile humor which I enjoy without shame.

Danny and Ceepak are great fun! The plot has some real twists and goes deeper than your average quick and fun listen!

About the time you're sure you know what's going on there is a twist. The humor slides in and keeps sneaking up at just the right times too.

I found myself walking saying "focus Danny" to myself in that same tone whenever I started chasing squirrels in my head. :)

I not only wanted to listen in one sitting - I downloaded the rest of the series. Love 'em!

Like Springsteen? Like fun reads with humor and some substance? Been to the Jersey boardwalk? If you answered yes to any of these give Danny and Ceepak a try!

Tilt-a-Whirl is a terrific read - fast-paced, well-drawn characters, unpredictable plot turns - all sweetened with humor ranging from dry irony to slapstick. I'm eager to read the next one in the series.

Incredible job by the narrator with a fantastic story filled with twists and turns on top of twists and turns. The author captures how people really speak --especially in New Jersey. No wonder this book won the coveted Anthony Award for BEST FIRST MYSTERY!

My first book by this man and I absolutely loved it! Very much like CH, but, a style all of his own and a story line that is all his own. I look forward to reading/hearing his other books. You can't go wrong here. Good story line, good narrator, great who done it.

I'm not sure where I read about comparisons to Hiaasen...but this sophomoric tale doesn't make it. I realise that the protagonist is supposed to be quite young and, to that extent, the narrator does a good job. But it's all too 'gee whiz' for me. I read (and listen) to a lot of crime fiction and enjoy many different styles including the humourous and offbeat. But I was very disappointed in this book.

I was looking for a new series. However, I did not want to pay full price. At first I was thinking what a bad choice I made. However, as the story unfolds what an excellent choice. Jeff Woodman as the narrator reminds me of "the wonder year" as Kevin narrator's his story about his life. I have already download the rest of the series and waiting for book #6 Rolling Thunder coming 05/05/10. Chris Grabenstein keep up the excellent job. Please, Please!!! Do not go down hill like the Stephanie Plum series!!!! After she wrote book #12 of the Stephanie Plum series, I have no idea what happen??? The storylines not good at all. However, John Ceepak and Danny Boyle!!! ten four!!!