Spade & Archer: The Prequel to Dashiell Hammett’s The Maltese Falcon by Joe Gores
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I’ve listened to the Old Time Radio show, Sam Spade, for years. It is one of my favorites. Howard Duff did a great job of bringing Spade to life.
When I came across Spade & Archer recently I thought I might give it a try after seeing many glowing reviews. They were right.
Scott Brick, who I have listened to on many adventure series, almost made me think I was hearing Howard Duff again in the role.
The story is well thought out and each section ties perfectly with what preceded it. Honestly, I had times when I thought I was familiar with a particular story line. I particularly appreciated the way every location was made to feel real.
I enjoyed learning more about the back stories and how Spade seemed to know everyone everywhere. While Effie, that amazing secretary, did not sound like the Effie I’d heard for years, I found I enjoyed this version very much. That lady has a head on her shoulders!
I strongly urge you to give this one a try and to give the old radio series a try, too.
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From The Reading Table: Spade & Archer…
