The Mad and the Bad
The Mad and the Bad
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014
Book Brief
Beta163
Novel • Fiction
France • 1970s
2014
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In The Mad and the Bad by Jean-Patrick Manchette, a wealthy industrialist hires a recently released psychiatric patient to care for his orphaned nephew. Soon, they are embroiled in a violent struggle for survival as they attempt to escape a dangerous situation orchestrated by the boy's uncle. The story explores themes of violence and survival.
Gritty
Dark
Suspenseful
Mysterious
Unnerving
Reviews & Readership
1,601 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jean-Patrick Manchette's The Mad and the Bad is praised for its taut narrative and dark humor, offering a thrilling critique of capitalism. The novel's brisk pace and stark prose captivate readers, while its violent undertones may deter some. Manchette's ability to intertwine social commentary with suspense is widely appreciated, although its bleakness may not appeal to all.
Who Should Read The Mad and the Bad?
Fans of fast-paced noir thrillers with a dark, satirical edge will enjoy Jean-Patrick Manchette's The Mad and the Bad. Readers of Raymond Chandler's The Big Sleep and Patricia Highsmith's The Talented Mr. Ripley will appreciate its tense, unpredictable narrative and morally complex characters.
1,601 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
163
Novel • Fiction
France • 1970s
2014
Adult
18+ years
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