Florida Straits

A Key West Mystery, Book 1

By: Laurence Shames

Narrated by: Richard Ferrone

Top-notch suspense and "killer" comedy merge in this rollicking national best seller filled with funky characters, resounding dialogue, and inappropriately named "wise" guys. In the grand tradition of Elmore Leonard, Laurence Shames creates an outrageous heavyweight thriller that’s heavy on atmosphere and action. Joey Goldman is a low-level New York hustler. He’s taking a working vacation in South Florida and looking to score big with a time-share scam. His half brother Gino Delgatto is a man in need of a fall guy. When they meet in Key West, the term dysfunctional family takes on a new meaning. Will one of them succeed? Or will the Miami mob find an eye-popping way to dispose of them both?

Critically acclaimed narrator Richard Ferrone brings every character to life - from bad guys in shiny blue suits to Steve the naked landlord - with a crackling intensity you will love.

©1992 Laurence Shames (P)1997 Recorded Books

Florida Vibes. Sartorial Suggestions for Social integration. Exit Strategies Mob Associates.

Set in mid 1990’s. Learn Florida thru the eyes of emigrants from Queens NYC NY. Pulling up roots moves the first part of this funny & engaging novel. The young protagonist was raised with mobster mentality & lifestyle, & dedication to hustling, His Signother is lively, sympathetic & stable, tried by fire, stands by him. The Narrator is gifted at dialect & interprets the dialogue with great expertise & enthusiam. I loved it! Listened twice.

Florida Funny

This is very similar to other crime/fubby/local color books in the genre. it will particularly appeal to relocated
New Yorkers and other northeastern denizens. If not it is probably less enjoyable.

Average

A lot of reality suspension is required to believe that a NYC mobster can run a boat around the keys at night.

A good story with nice plot twists

I think this is a very good book I like the narrator very much. The story was well told with nice twists and interesting tidbits about Florida. I think that the main character was very endearing nd the story was one that many could relate to.

Hilarious, Poignant, suspenseful

What did you love best about Florida Straits?

There was nothing to not like. This book combined my love of New York life and Key west life. The two come together like oil and water, but in the end it all gets sorted out.

What other book might you compare Florida Straits to and why?

The style reminds me Tim Dorsey.

What does Richard Ferrone bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

His voice, was amazing!

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

I laughed and cried.

Any additional comments?

Read this book!