Schnappt Shorty.

His snappy, authentic conversations really make the characters come alive. I wonder if he modeled any of the dialogue after real people or just crafted it from his imagination.

The book balances dark themes with wit so well that I almost didn't know whether to laugh or be tense. Is this contrast common in crime novels, or is Leonard's style unique?

The Hollywood backdrop adds a layer of glamour and cynicism that feels so specific. I'm curious whether Leonard drew from personal experiences or was more interested in satirizing the industry.