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Skin Game   By: (1927-)

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Skin Game by Charles E. Fritch is a captivating thriller that lures readers into a dangerous world filled with suspense, action, and unexpected twists. Fritch’s novel introduces us to Jake Pelham, a skilled con artist who finds himself caught in a web of deceit and treachery.

From the very beginning, the author expertly sets the tone for the story, creating an atmosphere of unease and instability. Pelham is a complex and intriguing character who seamlessly walks the line between charming and sinister. As the plot unfolds, we witness his combined intelligence and street smarts in action, as he commits to a high-stakes con that could mean life or death.

Fritch masterfully builds suspense with each chapter, slowly revealing the layers of trust, loyalty, and betrayal that lie at the heart of the story. The author’s attention to detail is commendable, as he vividly describes the intricate planning and meticulous execution of Pelham’s schemes. It is through these details that readers become invested in the outcome, holding their breath as the tension mounts.

What sets Skin Game apart from other thrillers is the deep exploration of moral ambiguity. Fritch forces readers to question their own sense of right and wrong, blurring the lines between the protagonist and the antagonist. As Pelham’s plan unravels, navigating a treacherous underworld where no one can be fully trusted, the reader is left pondering the true nature of justice and survival.

Another highlight of this novel is the swift pace at which it progresses. Fritch keeps readers engaged with a constant stream of intriguing incidents and unexpected revelations. As the stakes are raised and the danger intensifies, the adrenaline rush becomes almost palpable.

However, one aspect that may leave readers wanting more is the limited development of secondary characters. While Pelham is undoubtedly a fascinating and well-rounded lead, some of the supporting cast fall somewhat flat, lacking the depth and complexity they deserve. Nevertheless, this minor flaw does not deter from the overall enjoyment of the novel.

In conclusion, Skin Game is a gripping and thrilling ride from start to finish. Fritch’s writing style is sharp and compelling, making it difficult to put the book down. With its engaging plot, morally gray characters, and relentless pace, this novel is a must-read for fans of the thriller genre.

First Page:

Working on the theory that you can skin a sucker in space as well as on Earth, the con team of Harding and Sheckly operated furtively but profitably among natives of the outer planets. That is until there was a question of turnabout being fair play in a world where natives took their skinning literally!

SKIN GAME

By Charles E. Fritch

Illustrated by Kelly Freas

"People are basically alike," Harding said democratically. He sat idly against the strawlike matting of the hut wall and reached for a native fruit in a nearby bowl. "They're all suckers, even the smartest of them; in fact, the ones who think they're the smartest generally wind up to be the dumbest." Carefully, he bit into the fruit which resembled an orange and, mouth full, nodded approvingly. "Say, these aren't bad. Try one."

Sheckly shook his head, determined to avoid as many aspects of this culture as he could. "But these aren't people," he reminded, not happy with the thought. "They're lizards."

Harding shrugged and settled back, his grinning features ruddy in the flaring torchlight. "Humanoids have no monopoly on suckerhood. When it comes to that, we're all brothers under the skin, no matter what color or how hard the skin may be." He sighed, contemplating the harvest to be. "No, Sheckly, it'll be like taking candy from a baby... Continue reading book >>




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