The Big Sleep was published in 1939, and introduced private detective Philip Marlowe. Marlowe is called to the mansion of General Sternwood, and is enlisted to help deal with a blackmailer. Throughout the book Marlowe is forced to deal with the General's two daughters, both of which are trouble, murder, kidnapping, and extortion.
There is enough twists, plot turns to keep things interested, and the book is well written. For me it was fun to be introduced to Marlowe, and it is easy to see the influence several years later. The wise cracking Marlowe was tough, hard drinking, but believes in doing the right thing. He isn't afraid to dish out violence, but he doesn't do it unless it's necessary. Chandler set the rules for private detectives with Marlowe that influenced other characters that came later.
Michael Connelly, Robert Parker, and Robert Crais are examples of authors who were influenced by Chandler. It's easy to see why after reading The Big Sleep.
My ratings: 4 1/2 stars
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