Once again this week I’m linking up with Diane at Bibliophile by the Sea who hosts a post every Tuesday for people to share the first chapter / paragraph of the book they are reading, or thinking of reading soon. I really enjoy these tasters when I read them on other blogs so wanted to join in.
My book this week is Drive by James Sallis, an author I love, though I’m a little nervous as Drive is also one of my favourite films. It’ll be interested to see how the two compare.
Set mostly in Arizona and L.A., the story is, according to Sallis, “…about a guy who does stunt driving for movies by day and drives for criminals at night. In classic noir fashion, he is double-crossed and, though before he has never participated in the violence (‘I drive. That’s all.’), he goes after the ones who doublecrossed and tried to kill him.”
And here’s how it starts…
Much later, as he sat with his back against an inside wall of a Motel 6 just north of Pheonix, watching the pool of blood lap toward him, Driver would wonder whether he had made a terrible mistake. Later still, of course, there’d be no doubt. But for now Driver is, as they say, in the moment. And the moment includes this blood lapping towards him, the pressure of dawn’s late light at windows and door, traffic sounds from the interstate nearby, the sound of someone weeping in the next room
What do you think – would you keep reading?
Emma
One Readers Thoughts 
I haven’t read much noir fiction. Not sure if it is something I really enjoy or not. Girl Who Reads
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I’d keep reading! Sounds different and interesting. Here’s my Teaser/Intro for the week: http://justasecondblog.blogspot.com/2015/10/teaser-tuesdaysfirst-chapter-first_20.html
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I just can’t stop reading his books – I have years to catch up on. They do draw you in.
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Definitely intriguing, Emma! I think I would keep reading this one; sounds like a great read for this time of year. Thanks for sharing this one!
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There’s no time wasting – you get straight into it. Well worth a read if you get to it!
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This sounds good! I hope it lives up to the movie. Just from the description, I can see why it was made into a movie.
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I have really enjoyed it but did struggle to get the movie out of my mind. Hope you enjoy if you read / see it.
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I do love a good noir film or book…this one does sound fascinating. Intense…it grabs me. Thanks for sharing, and here’s mine: “A PLACE WE KNEW WELL”
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Me too. There is something that draws me in quickly. A nice bit of darkness does a girl good I guess.
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I like noir, when I’m in the right mood. This one sounds promising.
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It’s a style I’ve come to late but love. It’s the simple style and pared back language I think.
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This story definitely starts off with an exciting scene! I haven’t seen the movie, but I think I’d enjoy it and the book too.
My Tuesday post features In His Arms.
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It’s a great film, though not to everyone’s tastes. Have enjoyed the book too.
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Not sure I’ve ever read noir fiction, but I’d be willing to give it a try.
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It really is worth it – or at least I think so 😄
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I like the premise on this one but the writing style in the teaser doesn’t really grab me. I look forward to seeing your thoughts on it!
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I think he is an author you love or don’t but I like his dry style.
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I just watched Drive for the first time last night and I reall enjoyed it! I didn’t realise it was based on a book. Based on that opening paragraph, I would definitely keep reading!
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Sounds like lots of action and a good read.
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Lots of action. Short though.
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I’m curious for more so I’d keep reading.
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I haven’t been able to stop. But I do love James Sallis.
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I would have to read a bit more to decide.
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The good news is it’s short if you don’t enjoy it 😉
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I’d keep going.
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It is another winner for me. I am trying not to see Ryan Gosling though.
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The opening really grabs your attention…I’d read on to find out more about the character and the situation.
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It is quite a start to a book isn’t it. Couldn’t wait to find out how Driver got there.
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I’ve never heard of James Sallis but I love classic noir so I’m interested. That’s quite an opener too, I’d definitely want to read on and see how all this came about.
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I hadn’t till I saw this movie a few years ago. Now I’m slowly making my way through his books. Love them I must admit.
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