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Daniel McEvoy #2
Screwed
The second crime novel by internationally bestselling writer Eoin Colfer is a gritty and utterly compelling follow-up to the critically acclaimed Plugged In Screwed, Colfer adds and entirely new chapter to the adventures and misadventures of Daniel McEvoy, the down-on-his-luck Irish bouncer at a seedy New Jersey bar who, with the help of a motley crew of unlikely characters, solved a bizarre string of murders--including the one of the girl he loved. But people around him continue to die mysteriously, and Daniel is called into action once again. Colfer, beloved by millions for his Artemis Fowl series, has written a riveting and relentlessly paced sequel that is sure to garner international praise. With wildly inventive imagination and head-spinning plot twists, Screwed is a tour de force that rivals Carl Hiaasen at his very best. Ridley Pearson called Plugged "a brilliant, madcap mystery" and "genius at work." With Screwed, Colfer delivers that signature brilliance once again.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2013
132 people are currently reading
1190 people want to read
About the author
Eoin Colfer
155 books11.8k followersEoin Colfer (pronounced Owen) was born in Wexford on the South-East coast of Ireland in 1965, where he and his four brothers were brought up by his father and mother, who were both educators.
He received his degree from Dublin University and began teaching primary school in Wexford. He has lived and worked all over the world, including Saudi Arabia, Tunisia and Italy. After the publication of the Artemis Fowl novels, Eoin retired from teaching and now writes full time. He lives in Ireland with his wife and two children.
He received his degree from Dublin University and began teaching primary school in Wexford. He has lived and worked all over the world, including Saudi Arabia, Tunisia and Italy. After the publication of the Artemis Fowl novels, Eoin retired from teaching and now writes full time. He lives in Ireland with his wife and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 189 reviews
May 26, 2017
Not really a 4 star read, more of a 3.5 for the plot & all, but it was so damn funny. The narrator was great & there's something about an Irish accent that can make the most ridiculous situations seem almost reasonable. Great turns of phrase, too.
Dan is a born loser with the knack of being in the wrong place at just the right time to make sure he pisses off the maximum amount of people & have any action come back to haunt him. Further more, his decisions aren't always the best. He's a pretty nice guy, all things considered, & his conversations with himself are interesting & amusing. Tough, loyal, & missing a few marbles, so the thought that he's worried about another's sanity is just sweet. 'Sweet'... possibly not the best word to be used in describing a PTSD stricken veteran under the thumb of a mobster, especially given Oops, almost told & that wouldn't be right. It was the icing on the cake.
Lots of fun, but read these in order if you can. They do build on each other. I'd highly recommend the audio edition, too.
Dan is a born loser with the knack of being in the wrong place at just the right time to make sure he pisses off the maximum amount of people & have any action come back to haunt him. Further more, his decisions aren't always the best. He's a pretty nice guy, all things considered, & his conversations with himself are interesting & amusing. Tough, loyal, & missing a few marbles, so the thought that he's worried about another's sanity is just sweet. 'Sweet'... possibly not the best word to be used in describing a PTSD stricken veteran under the thumb of a mobster, especially given Oops, almost told & that wouldn't be right. It was the icing on the cake.
Lots of fun, but read these in order if you can. They do build on each other. I'd highly recommend the audio edition, too.
November 19, 2013
Another tour de force by a master writer. "Screwed" is the sequel to "Plugged" and it's every bit as good. In fact the plot is stronger, and, believe it or not, there are way more wisecracks/witticisms to the inch. The narrative voice is really strong and I love the way the narrator does rolling self-critiques of his word choices throughout. If I had a criticism of the book, it would be that the admixture of New-York-speak and Irishisms left me floundering here and there. I'm hoping Google will tell me what WINAWBSB is, for example. Not the author's fault. I should get out more. Oh, by the way, there is one great big plot hole near the end (I think), but we can forgive him for that, the book is so good!
I read it in a day. Probably the best work of fiction I've read all year.
I read it in a day. Probably the best work of fiction I've read all year.
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November 27, 2016Found this book the day after I re-heard this joke:
A traveller who is a huge fan of seafood arrives in Boston for the first time. He leaves the airport and hails a cab. After he gets in, he excitedly says to the cabbie, "Hey, I'm new in town. Can you tell me a good place to go to get scrod?" The cabbie replies [in a thick Boston accent], "Pal, I've got to congratulate you. I've heard that question a lot over the years, but that's the first time I've ever heard it in the pluperfect subjunctive."
A traveller who is a huge fan of seafood arrives in Boston for the first time. He leaves the airport and hails a cab. After he gets in, he excitedly says to the cabbie, "Hey, I'm new in town. Can you tell me a good place to go to get scrod?" The cabbie replies [in a thick Boston accent], "Pal, I've got to congratulate you. I've heard that question a lot over the years, but that's the first time I've ever heard it in the pluperfect subjunctive."
May 25, 2020
This story is very witty and entertaining. I am going to include a strong warning.
⚠️ Do Not Listen to the audio version unless you are at home and alone. ⚠️
I listened with Bluetooth earbuds which hide that I am wearing them under hair over my ear. There were a few times I had to fight the urge to grin like an idiot for no apparent reason to people around me. There were even a couple times I was grinning before I realized it.
⚠️ Do Not Listen to the audio version unless you are at home and alone. ⚠️
I listened with Bluetooth earbuds which hide that I am wearing them under hair over my ear. There were a few times I had to fight the urge to grin like an idiot for no apparent reason to people around me. There were even a couple times I was grinning before I realized it.
June 5, 2013
Screwed is a screwball noir that rattles along a quick clip, with McEvoy pinging from one dose of slapstick violence and gallows humour to another. Colfer has an engaging voice and the narrative is witty and sassy, with a number of laugh out loud moments. As with all comic crime capers the plot is a little ridiculous and the characters lean towards caricature, but that’s a key part of what makes them work. Colfer sets out a series of quirky plot strands then weaves together to form a story full of collisions and ricochets, whilst also filling in more of McEvoy’s family back story. As I noted with respect to the first book, Plugged, McEvoy seemed a little out of key - he’s meant to be scarred with deep psychological flaws courtesy of an abusive family upbringing and his time as a peacekeeper in the Lebanon, but he seems way too together, clear thinking and assured in his own violent abilities to fit that mould. Moreover, some of the humour seems a little forced at times. Nevertheless, Screwed is good rollicking fun and an enjoyable second book in the series.
July 31, 2013
OH MY GOD!
This year has too many amazing books, but this one... I almost fell out of my window, I was laughing so hard.
If you've followed the last Artemis Fowl novels you'll have noticed how Eoin Colfer's writing has evolved and in this book it just culminates into pure bliss. I mean... "forest gumping down the street". There's so many phrases in this book that just made it an utter joy to read. I'm really sad it's over.
The suspense at times was actually killing me, who needs food when you need to figure out how Dan is going to get out of a pinch? I love him and how he sees the world and like him I both want to keep Zeb around and strangle him at the same time.
I laughed and worried when reading this book, was so caught up that I read the last 250 pages without so much as getting up.
I truly hope there's another Dan McEvoy book in the making some time in the future, for while it's a bit sad to think of him in even more trouble, his inner voice just makes my day.
Last but not least, the pink thong and its subsequent re-appearance at several later stages in the novel had me snorting liquid out of my nose with laughter.
This year has too many amazing books, but this one... I almost fell out of my window, I was laughing so hard.
If you've followed the last Artemis Fowl novels you'll have noticed how Eoin Colfer's writing has evolved and in this book it just culminates into pure bliss. I mean... "forest gumping down the street". There's so many phrases in this book that just made it an utter joy to read. I'm really sad it's over.
The suspense at times was actually killing me, who needs food when you need to figure out how Dan is going to get out of a pinch? I love him and how he sees the world and like him I both want to keep Zeb around and strangle him at the same time.
I laughed and worried when reading this book, was so caught up that I read the last 250 pages without so much as getting up.
I truly hope there's another Dan McEvoy book in the making some time in the future, for while it's a bit sad to think of him in even more trouble, his inner voice just makes my day.
Last but not least, the pink thong and its subsequent re-appearance at several later stages in the novel had me snorting liquid out of my nose with laughter.
September 12, 2020
Dan is still alive. From the last book. He took over a local sleazy club and become the new management.
He is still in trouble. He kind of get in trouble with the local gangsters. He got away by knowing where his mother is, and allow a distance to keep the peace.
Now the gangster's mom died. He is in trouble again. Dan was sent on an errant that mean only violence.
He is also dating his neighbor who has lost some of her marbles.
Could he got away this time? More action and some funny bits. Not great. But not bad either. Fast read and entertaining.
He is still in trouble. He kind of get in trouble with the local gangsters. He got away by knowing where his mother is, and allow a distance to keep the peace.
Now the gangster's mom died. He is in trouble again. Dan was sent on an errant that mean only violence.
He is also dating his neighbor who has lost some of her marbles.
Could he got away this time? More action and some funny bits. Not great. But not bad either. Fast read and entertaining.
June 13, 2024
McEvoy returns with two chores to deal with, one a payback assignment as a consequence of the events from Plugged and the other a family matter.
The two plot lines converge nicely.
I liked this sequel more than the original book. Colfer upped the emotional stakes and got McEvoy in enough danger to overwhelm his serious skills and general bad-assery.
This is fun, light entertainment with adult humor and a charismatic narrator/protagonist.
If Colfer writes more stories about McEvoy, I would read ’em.
The two plot lines converge nicely.
I liked this sequel more than the original book. Colfer upped the emotional stakes and got McEvoy in enough danger to overwhelm his serious skills and general bad-assery.
This is fun, light entertainment with adult humor and a charismatic narrator/protagonist.
If Colfer writes more stories about McEvoy, I would read ’em.
July 1, 2020
Screwed is the sequel to Eoin Colfer’s first foray into real world crime writing, Plugged, where we follow the adventures of the highly flawed but ultimately loveable Irish lead Daniel McEvoy. Readers of the first book will know already that to describe Daniel as a diamond in the rough would be to essentially oversell what most of his world would consider to be nothing more than a big lump of Irish anthracite. As his CV should tell you, our peace corps soldier turned bouncer turned nightclub empresario leads a fairly eventful life, and thankfully one that is extremely entertaining (albeit not always so much for Dan personally).
******SPOILER ALERT FOR 1st BOOK “Plugged”******
We pick up with Dan where we left off at the end of the first book, having amongst other things, just successfully won the nightclub/casino/strip club/general den of iniquity he was a bouncer at in a game of poker with his Kevin Federline-esque now ex-boss. His relationship status on Facebook would be best described as “It’s complicated”, given his current love interest only remembers who he is 50% of the time and may or may not have “offed” her ex-husband.
The character of Danny boy is highly developed from the first book, and we know him and the way he thinks all too well by now, for better and for worse. Told entirely from the first person perspective we are placed inside the vaguely schizophrenic mind of our liveable Irish rogue Dan McEvoy. There’s not much room to move in there, as how cranium is pretty much filled to bursting with various idiosyncrasies, anxieties, PTSD and his usually inappropriate sense of humour. All of these cause Dan no end of difficulty and pain, especially his sense of humour which, combined with his loose lips and general lack of tact, is particularly hazardous to his health.
For all his flaws Dan has a heart of gold and is a character you really root for and want to see do well in every situation, no matter how unlikely or precarious. As for these situations, there are A LOT of them. This story doesn’t rest on its laurels for long and it doesn’t take long for Dan to find himself in the first of a long line of often ridiculously unfortunate but exciting and entertaining situations. They range from the twisted and macabre to the downright silly, and often are a refreshing cocktail of both ingredients. Even though most of the time Dan isn’t having a very good time, of its any consolation to him, we the reader certainly are. I frequently found myself laughing out loud at the situations Dan finds himself in, and (most of the time) gets himself out of, with his internal monologue and commentary on said predicaments being this book’s main source of fun. As far as witty, offbeat and generally very funny soliloquies go, few can compete with Eoin Colfer. His trademark flair for the outlandish and his comic timing as usual gave me plenty of laughs. I have no doubt Eoin thoroughly enjoyed himself in writing this, and I enjoyed every page of it too.
As much as I enjoyed the book though and the colourful characters we’re introduced to, much like our protagonist himself, the book is highly entertaining but not without it’s flaws.
Whilst I thoroughly enjoyed reading through the seemingly never ending list of increasingly unpredictable scenarios, travails and adversaries that Daniel encountered, the sheer number of them actually detracted somewhat from the overall story. There are so many characters and threads to the tale that for me the story suffered from a lack of focus on a strong enough core focus. It became a series of unfortunate (albeit undeniably hilarious) events, but sometimes to the point that it became unclear to what the main central thread of the story was that we were supposed to follow through to the end. Ultimately for all the colourful and for the most part we’ll developed characters, we ended up without having one clear main storyline or antagonist. As a symptom of this problem we then come to the end of the story with a somewhat unsatisfying end. With no clear ying to Daniel’s yang, we ultimately end up with resolutions to problems and problem characters, but much less final and less satisfying ones than we might have hoped for. A part of me feels as though a more satisfying and finite end may be as a result of wanting to keep the door open for a third instalment to the Daniel McEvoy saga. To be clear I would have no hesitation in picking up a third and final book in this series, as how story so far has given me so many laughs already, but it’s a shame the ending of this second book had to suffer in order to make that final leg of the trilogy a possibility.
In summary though despite its issues, Eoin Colfer has largely achieved what I hoped he would with this book, and that is to make me laugh my arse off and be left wanting more. I would again highly recommend it to any fan of Colfer’s earlier works and to anyone wanting a slightly zany but very funny read, and I hope to be able to round out this trilogy with a final satisfying book that delivers both the laughs and gratifying climax that the Daniel McEvoy saga so thought deserves.
3*
******SPOILER ALERT FOR 1st BOOK “Plugged”******
We pick up with Dan where we left off at the end of the first book, having amongst other things, just successfully won the nightclub/casino/strip club/general den of iniquity he was a bouncer at in a game of poker with his Kevin Federline-esque now ex-boss. His relationship status on Facebook would be best described as “It’s complicated”, given his current love interest only remembers who he is 50% of the time and may or may not have “offed” her ex-husband.
The character of Danny boy is highly developed from the first book, and we know him and the way he thinks all too well by now, for better and for worse. Told entirely from the first person perspective we are placed inside the vaguely schizophrenic mind of our liveable Irish rogue Dan McEvoy. There’s not much room to move in there, as how cranium is pretty much filled to bursting with various idiosyncrasies, anxieties, PTSD and his usually inappropriate sense of humour. All of these cause Dan no end of difficulty and pain, especially his sense of humour which, combined with his loose lips and general lack of tact, is particularly hazardous to his health.
For all his flaws Dan has a heart of gold and is a character you really root for and want to see do well in every situation, no matter how unlikely or precarious. As for these situations, there are A LOT of them. This story doesn’t rest on its laurels for long and it doesn’t take long for Dan to find himself in the first of a long line of often ridiculously unfortunate but exciting and entertaining situations. They range from the twisted and macabre to the downright silly, and often are a refreshing cocktail of both ingredients. Even though most of the time Dan isn’t having a very good time, of its any consolation to him, we the reader certainly are. I frequently found myself laughing out loud at the situations Dan finds himself in, and (most of the time) gets himself out of, with his internal monologue and commentary on said predicaments being this book’s main source of fun. As far as witty, offbeat and generally very funny soliloquies go, few can compete with Eoin Colfer. His trademark flair for the outlandish and his comic timing as usual gave me plenty of laughs. I have no doubt Eoin thoroughly enjoyed himself in writing this, and I enjoyed every page of it too.
As much as I enjoyed the book though and the colourful characters we’re introduced to, much like our protagonist himself, the book is highly entertaining but not without it’s flaws.
Whilst I thoroughly enjoyed reading through the seemingly never ending list of increasingly unpredictable scenarios, travails and adversaries that Daniel encountered, the sheer number of them actually detracted somewhat from the overall story. There are so many characters and threads to the tale that for me the story suffered from a lack of focus on a strong enough core focus. It became a series of unfortunate (albeit undeniably hilarious) events, but sometimes to the point that it became unclear to what the main central thread of the story was that we were supposed to follow through to the end. Ultimately for all the colourful and for the most part we’ll developed characters, we ended up without having one clear main storyline or antagonist. As a symptom of this problem we then come to the end of the story with a somewhat unsatisfying end. With no clear ying to Daniel’s yang, we ultimately end up with resolutions to problems and problem characters, but much less final and less satisfying ones than we might have hoped for. A part of me feels as though a more satisfying and finite end may be as a result of wanting to keep the door open for a third instalment to the Daniel McEvoy saga. To be clear I would have no hesitation in picking up a third and final book in this series, as how story so far has given me so many laughs already, but it’s a shame the ending of this second book had to suffer in order to make that final leg of the trilogy a possibility.
In summary though despite its issues, Eoin Colfer has largely achieved what I hoped he would with this book, and that is to make me laugh my arse off and be left wanting more. I would again highly recommend it to any fan of Colfer’s earlier works and to anyone wanting a slightly zany but very funny read, and I hope to be able to round out this trilogy with a final satisfying book that delivers both the laughs and gratifying climax that the Daniel McEvoy saga so thought deserves.
3*
June 30, 2020
At the beginning the amount of bad wise-cracks is overwhelming, but when some semblance of lot starts atters improve. I'm not sure Colfer's absurdism is really the greatest match with noirish crime fiction, though. Works better with smart-alec centaurs, teenaged criminal masterminds and fairies out to smas the Patriarchy.
October 29, 2017
It was okay. I read it and "Plugged" back-to-back so I had a sense of continuity, but the ongoing interiority with a marginal narrator at the helm began to leave me cold. This is a series that could end where it stands, unlike "Terriers" & I would be fine as is.
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June 18, 2023I’m sad there isn’t a third book in the Daniel McEvoy series. The tough, wisecracking, ex-army, bouncer turned club owner is a tortured soul but in a hilarious way.
March 30, 2020
Sorry, aber weder lustig noch spannend noch irgendwas. Viel vulgäres, verworrenes und leidet so gar nicht meins. Habe mich durchgequält und kann es so gar nicht empfehlen.
July 6, 2013
Eoin Colfer has described his young adult series as "'Die Hard with fairies.’”
So it's kind of easy to imagine what his adult fiction will be - gritty, snarky, violent and hilarious for starts. Somebody else has called it screwball noir, but that doesn't quite do it justice. There are elements of both, but there is also really great writing and unforgettable characters with laugh out loud moments on every other page.
Dan McEvoy is an ex-Irish army veteran of a peacekeeping mission in the Lebanon with a touch of PTSD, who has fallen on hard times in New Jersey. A former bouncer, he now has his own down at heels club which a couple of gay pals are renovating. BUT - a local crime boss, another Irishman has a problem with Dan, feels Dan owes him one and sends him on a mission he can't refuse. It's the beginning of a series of misadventures that call on all of the Special Forces skills that Dan wants to put behind him. And then some.
He is kidnapped, beaten, tased and shot at more than once. He meets his (4th step)grandmother and his long lost alcoholic aunt. He has a beautiful bipolar landlady with whom he is sort of in love, but it's difficult because at least half of the time she thinks he's her missing husband and Dan is too much of a gentleman to take advantage of her. There are some exceptionally unorthodox incidents involving large gangsters and a dildo.
Dan explains a bit of his family background this way:
"my mother made the choice to live for her children, and that, along with visits from her baby sister, kept her going until a sozzled Arthur ran the family Morris Minor into a donkey outside Dalkey Village, killing everyone but me and the donkey. The donkey was knocked over the ditch, the car went into a wall and I was thrown clear into the army.
Because that's the sensible thing to do when your entire family is killed in a traumatic accident caused by an alcoholic sociopath: join a bunch of homophobes in a small tent and learn how to murder people.
Still, I gotta admit, I was an empty vessel and the army filled me to overflowing with attitude, guns and knives."
So it's kind of easy to imagine what his adult fiction will be - gritty, snarky, violent and hilarious for starts. Somebody else has called it screwball noir, but that doesn't quite do it justice. There are elements of both, but there is also really great writing and unforgettable characters with laugh out loud moments on every other page.
Dan McEvoy is an ex-Irish army veteran of a peacekeeping mission in the Lebanon with a touch of PTSD, who has fallen on hard times in New Jersey. A former bouncer, he now has his own down at heels club which a couple of gay pals are renovating. BUT - a local crime boss, another Irishman has a problem with Dan, feels Dan owes him one and sends him on a mission he can't refuse. It's the beginning of a series of misadventures that call on all of the Special Forces skills that Dan wants to put behind him. And then some.
He is kidnapped, beaten, tased and shot at more than once. He meets his (4th step)grandmother and his long lost alcoholic aunt. He has a beautiful bipolar landlady with whom he is sort of in love, but it's difficult because at least half of the time she thinks he's her missing husband and Dan is too much of a gentleman to take advantage of her. There are some exceptionally unorthodox incidents involving large gangsters and a dildo.
Dan explains a bit of his family background this way:
"my mother made the choice to live for her children, and that, along with visits from her baby sister, kept her going until a sozzled Arthur ran the family Morris Minor into a donkey outside Dalkey Village, killing everyone but me and the donkey. The donkey was knocked over the ditch, the car went into a wall and I was thrown clear into the army.
Because that's the sensible thing to do when your entire family is killed in a traumatic accident caused by an alcoholic sociopath: join a bunch of homophobes in a small tent and learn how to murder people.
Still, I gotta admit, I was an empty vessel and the army filled me to overflowing with attitude, guns and knives."
June 14, 2013
Eoin Colfer shines with adult literature just as much as he does with children's. I loved Artemis Fowl, and now I love Dan McEvoy. He's a run-down Irish bouncer who gets the shit end of the stick over and over.
The sarcasm and assholery of this book is what makes it great. The shenanigans make it great. Dan running around in a pink sequined thong for a majority of the book is hilarious. I don't know how it was for others reading the book, but that was a constant undercurrent that would have me chuckling occasionally.
The characters are the best part, every single one of them. I loved the bad guys: Irish Mike Madden, Shea, Freckles. Each one brought something different to the table that was funny. I was glad each one got so much face time, because they were all just so entertaining. I think probably the dynamic between Shea and Freckles was my favorite; the drastic change from boss-henchman to camaraderie.
Sophia was an interesting character to say the least. Her psychosis was absolutely fascinating if I'm being truthful. It was like an on-off switch that was impossible to predict, and I think that Dan is a bit of a masochist to deal with her.
I loved the plot. It was a bit convoluted but I think that suited the entire mood of the book. I'm glad I picked this up and chose to read it, it was definitely worthwhile.
The sarcasm and assholery of this book is what makes it great. The shenanigans make it great. Dan running around in a pink sequined thong for a majority of the book is hilarious. I don't know how it was for others reading the book, but that was a constant undercurrent that would have me chuckling occasionally.
The characters are the best part, every single one of them. I loved the bad guys: Irish Mike Madden, Shea, Freckles. Each one brought something different to the table that was funny. I was glad each one got so much face time, because they were all just so entertaining. I think probably the dynamic between Shea and Freckles was my favorite; the drastic change from boss-henchman to camaraderie.
Sophia was an interesting character to say the least. Her psychosis was absolutely fascinating if I'm being truthful. It was like an on-off switch that was impossible to predict, and I think that Dan is a bit of a masochist to deal with her.
I loved the plot. It was a bit convoluted but I think that suited the entire mood of the book. I'm glad I picked this up and chose to read it, it was definitely worthwhile.
November 12, 2013
Ok this book surprised me - I knew that Eoin Colfer had written a wide range of book styles and genres but I didnt realise it included hard boiled gritty crime novels bordering on the noir. Well ok that is a bit extreme I knew he had written something (which turned out to be be "Plugged") and that I should checke it out - but it was not till this book landed in my hands - OK I picked it up that I realised how good he was at it too. Now those familiar with his work may well recognise this book as being one of his but that is as far as the similarities go! The langauge is yes as gritty and colourful as the storyline - the characters come and go with great and sometimes messy speed and the who books feels "grown up" compared to his other words (Artimis Fowl??)
So the book - I really enjoyed it - did i enjoy it for the style and storyline or did I enjoy it because Eoin Colfer and written it - I am not sure - so pass me Plugged and lets find out
So the book - I really enjoyed it - did i enjoy it for the style and storyline or did I enjoy it because Eoin Colfer and written it - I am not sure - so pass me Plugged and lets find out
August 19, 2014
My friend Laura wrote a great review of this novel and the audiobook which I agree with in every way. So I am going to quote her review below. This was a fun, relaxing, easy read. Maybe 3.5 stars for me rather than the 4 I gave plugged for the reasons in Laura's first paragraph:
"if you liked Plugged, you'll like Screwed. The books aren't identical, though -- this story is a little campier, and quite a bit more self-referential. I also think I liked Ghost Zeb better than real Zeb, and definitely better than the tweets from Simon.
The audiobook has an advantage over the paper book for both of these stories, as the audiobooks are read by an Irishman, lending some extra Irish flair to the narrative."
"if you liked Plugged, you'll like Screwed. The books aren't identical, though -- this story is a little campier, and quite a bit more self-referential. I also think I liked Ghost Zeb better than real Zeb, and definitely better than the tweets from Simon.
The audiobook has an advantage over the paper book for both of these stories, as the audiobooks are read by an Irishman, lending some extra Irish flair to the narrative."
August 6, 2013
I figured that the author of the clever Artemis Fowl series for pre-teens deserved a read of his work for adults. Maybe I would've enjoyed it more if I'd read the preceding book, but I wasn't particularly impressed. Very lightweight plot, lots of swearing - which is ok if it helps the book progress, but in this case just became boring - the protagonist spent much of his time being beaten up by foes. Meh.
January 4, 2017
Stumled across the audio book in the Public Library i work in and i really enjoyed the german version of this book. I had to laugh real hard and was really into this irish/american ganster novel with lots of ups and downs. The life of main character Daniel McEvoy is in a bad place and it doesn't seem to get any better soon.
This is the second novel by Colfer i've somehow encountered and i'm really hooked by the sense of humor and the characters - consider me a fan!
This is the second novel by Colfer i've somehow encountered and i'm really hooked by the sense of humor and the characters - consider me a fan!
January 4, 2015
Entertaining sequel in the Daniel McEvoy series about an ex-Irish Army sergeant, who mistakenly thought his days of combate and reconnaissance were behind him. Daniel’s life is screwed; sometimes nearly literally while being forced to star in a twisted snuff film. Is there any way to make it out alive, save those closest to him and possibly get the girl??
April 24, 2014
Good. Funny. Crass. Not as good as the first because it did not tie up the loose ends as well, leaving it open for more books of course. Just as hilarious as the first though. Warning, this series is not a young adult series. Swears and murder most foul (fowl, get it? Same author as Artemis Fowl)
June 28, 2024
In Screwed, Eoin Colfer delivers another thrilling installment in the life of Danial McEvoy. However, compared to its predecessor - Plugged, this book falls slightly short in delivering a cohesive and engaging plot.
One of the primary issues with this book is the sheer number of characters and subplots. The first book was much more straightforward, with a clear threat from a single organization. This made the story easy to follow and more enjoyable. In contrast, this installment feels overcrowded with too many people involved in one convoluted plot. The inclusion of Aunt Evelyn's part, in particular, feels unnecessary and detracts from the main storyline. Her character's involvement does not add much value and feels more like a filler than a crucial element of the plot.
As the story progresses, it becomes apparent that Danial McEvoy's life is, as the title suggests, screwed. The plot becomes messier, with an overwhelming amount of adversity thrown his way. While some readers might enjoy the chaotic nature of his predicaments, it felt excessive and somewhat exhausting. The constant barrage of troubles made it difficult to stay engaged, and I found myself speeding through the middle sections just to reach the end.
Another drawback is the repeated references to Danial's abusive father. While understanding his background is important for character development, the constant reminders become redundant and unnecessary. We get it – Danial had a tough upbringing. The overemphasis on this aspect of his past distracts from the current story and feels like overkill.
Despite these drawbacks, Author still manages to capture the essence of Danial McEvoy's character. His resilience and dark humor remain highlights of the book, providing some relief amidst the chaos. Fans of the series might appreciate the continuation of his story, but this installment might not be as satisfying as the first.
Overall, while Screwed has its moments, it is weighed down by an overcomplicated plot, unnecessary subplots, and redundant references to Danial's past. It’s a decent read for those invested in Danial McEvoy’s journey, but it could have benefited from a more streamlined approach.
One of the primary issues with this book is the sheer number of characters and subplots. The first book was much more straightforward, with a clear threat from a single organization. This made the story easy to follow and more enjoyable. In contrast, this installment feels overcrowded with too many people involved in one convoluted plot. The inclusion of Aunt Evelyn's part, in particular, feels unnecessary and detracts from the main storyline. Her character's involvement does not add much value and feels more like a filler than a crucial element of the plot.
As the story progresses, it becomes apparent that Danial McEvoy's life is, as the title suggests, screwed. The plot becomes messier, with an overwhelming amount of adversity thrown his way. While some readers might enjoy the chaotic nature of his predicaments, it felt excessive and somewhat exhausting. The constant barrage of troubles made it difficult to stay engaged, and I found myself speeding through the middle sections just to reach the end.
Another drawback is the repeated references to Danial's abusive father. While understanding his background is important for character development, the constant reminders become redundant and unnecessary. We get it – Danial had a tough upbringing. The overemphasis on this aspect of his past distracts from the current story and feels like overkill.
Despite these drawbacks, Author still manages to capture the essence of Danial McEvoy's character. His resilience and dark humor remain highlights of the book, providing some relief amidst the chaos. Fans of the series might appreciate the continuation of his story, but this installment might not be as satisfying as the first.
Overall, while Screwed has its moments, it is weighed down by an overcomplicated plot, unnecessary subplots, and redundant references to Danial's past. It’s a decent read for those invested in Danial McEvoy’s journey, but it could have benefited from a more streamlined approach.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2018
When I tried to look up the plot summary online, there wasn’t anything solid. (most referred to it as “the further adventures of Daniel McEvoy” )
But I kept listening, again b/c I’m a sucker for the Irish accent & b/c I did like the first one in the series so I wanted to find out what happens to the character. (Daniel McEvoy)
This second one in the series is a bit more crude in language than the first one.
It’s also more adult.
The characters of Zeb, Mrs. Sophia Delano (his now girlfriend), cop Ronnie Deacon & business partner/bouncer Jason return. Yeah! They provide the humorous dialogue and add the kookiness to Dan’s crazy adventure.
Plot summary:
To payback a past debt to the gangster Irish Mike Madden . Dan must deliver a package for him. Unfortunately, unknown to Dan, there are others after said package which causes problems (mostly violent) for Dan. Also, he doesn’t know the implications of the information in the envelope ahead of time so it causes Dan to react spur of the moment and deal with the repercussions later on.
As well as a subplot of reconnecting w/the American side of his mother’s family and the search for his missing aunt. And a long overdue inheritance.
Halfway thru, there’s a twist I didn’t see coming. It provided nail-biting tension.
Surprise at end.
***slight spoiler alert-there’s a bit about a pink thong. And when it comes back to being a major plot point, I think…”he’s still wearing the thong?” then I realize, uh yeah…it’s not like he’s had a chance to change his underwear. And then my brain goes to” seriously…he never changed his undies? That’s gross.” And then I realize that is because the action of the narrative is fast moving. So it makes sense but still…ew!
But I kept listening, again b/c I’m a sucker for the Irish accent & b/c I did like the first one in the series so I wanted to find out what happens to the character. (Daniel McEvoy)
This second one in the series is a bit more crude in language than the first one.
It’s also more adult.
The characters of Zeb, Mrs. Sophia Delano (his now girlfriend), cop Ronnie Deacon & business partner/bouncer Jason return. Yeah! They provide the humorous dialogue and add the kookiness to Dan’s crazy adventure.
Plot summary:
To payback a past debt to the gangster Irish Mike Madden . Dan must deliver a package for him. Unfortunately, unknown to Dan, there are others after said package which causes problems (mostly violent) for Dan. Also, he doesn’t know the implications of the information in the envelope ahead of time so it causes Dan to react spur of the moment and deal with the repercussions later on.
As well as a subplot of reconnecting w/the American side of his mother’s family and the search for his missing aunt. And a long overdue inheritance.
Halfway thru, there’s a twist I didn’t see coming. It provided nail-biting tension.
Surprise at end.
***slight spoiler alert-there’s a bit about a pink thong. And when it comes back to being a major plot point, I think…”he’s still wearing the thong?” then I realize, uh yeah…it’s not like he’s had a chance to change his underwear. And then my brain goes to” seriously…he never changed his undies? That’s gross.” And then I realize that is because the action of the narrative is fast moving. So it makes sense but still…ew!
December 17, 2020
3.75 stars
This is the second book following the escapades of Irish ex army bouncer turned New Jersey casino owner. This is darkly comedic, gritty book diving into the sleazy gangster underbelly of Jersey and NYC. In a story of astonishing coincidences and connections between seemingly unrelated events, we follow the chaotic and dark adventures of Dan McEvoy. Tasked to deliver a letter from one gangster to another things understandably do not go well. From porn studios to bent cops to Harvard grad gangster wannabes, professional assassins, missing cold cases, abductions and evil Scandinavian grannys, this is one he k of a wild ride.
While not as enjoyable as Plugged (book one), I still had a laugh out load moments and plenty of snorting, and eye rolling too. There are a lot of stupid wisecracks and vaguely witty banter. Pier pressure, anyone?! How is one guy so unlucky to have all this happen to him? And how is he so lucky to have survived it? Towards the end the rate of coincidences started to get to me but I enjoyed the ending and how most things were resolved.
Colfer's particular brand of noir comedy isn't for everyone, and having a least a little bit of Irish background makes it more compelling. If you like black humour, gritty gangster stories, a truly ridiculous amount of wisecracking, and Jason Bourne-like characters, then this is for you.
This is the second book following the escapades of Irish ex army bouncer turned New Jersey casino owner. This is darkly comedic, gritty book diving into the sleazy gangster underbelly of Jersey and NYC. In a story of astonishing coincidences and connections between seemingly unrelated events, we follow the chaotic and dark adventures of Dan McEvoy. Tasked to deliver a letter from one gangster to another things understandably do not go well. From porn studios to bent cops to Harvard grad gangster wannabes, professional assassins, missing cold cases, abductions and evil Scandinavian grannys, this is one he k of a wild ride.
While not as enjoyable as Plugged (book one), I still had a laugh out load moments and plenty of snorting, and eye rolling too. There are a lot of stupid wisecracks and vaguely witty banter. Pier pressure, anyone?! How is one guy so unlucky to have all this happen to him? And how is he so lucky to have survived it? Towards the end the rate of coincidences started to get to me but I enjoyed the ending and how most things were resolved.
Colfer's particular brand of noir comedy isn't for everyone, and having a least a little bit of Irish background makes it more compelling. If you like black humour, gritty gangster stories, a truly ridiculous amount of wisecracking, and Jason Bourne-like characters, then this is for you.
November 27, 2023
I really loved Plugged, the first Daniel McEvoy book, and this one shares many of the things that made me love it. Same fascinating, larger than life characters. Same madcap pacing. Same strange juxtaposition of deep philosophical questions with bawdy, raucous humor. The pacing and tone are one of a kind and a lot of fun. Daniel McEvoy is a really lovable messed-up character.
I thought this installment walked even closer than the first one did to the line that divides comic-book, not-to-be-taken seriously violence from gratuitous, gut-wrenching violence. Though I would say it never quite crossed the line, it got close enough to make me begin to question whether reading on was a good idea. The pathos became nearly heartbreaking at times, too.
I am at the same time really saddened that there hasn't been a third book in this series after all this time, and grateful that I won't have to choose whether to read it or not. I guess it would be more accurate to say that I am sad Colfer hasn't written any more books in this genre. Kids who get to read his prolific output of books aimed at them don't know how lucky they are!
I thought this installment walked even closer than the first one did to the line that divides comic-book, not-to-be-taken seriously violence from gratuitous, gut-wrenching violence. Though I would say it never quite crossed the line, it got close enough to make me begin to question whether reading on was a good idea. The pathos became nearly heartbreaking at times, too.
I am at the same time really saddened that there hasn't been a third book in this series after all this time, and grateful that I won't have to choose whether to read it or not. I guess it would be more accurate to say that I am sad Colfer hasn't written any more books in this genre. Kids who get to read his prolific output of books aimed at them don't know how lucky they are!
December 26, 2018
Not a bad little tough-guy novel but it feels like Colfer has wrung everything he's going to out of Daniel McEvoy. As it's five years and counting since this came out with no McEvoy #3, it seems like Colfer and/or his publisher agree.
It leans a little too heavily on McEvoy's Irish Army experience and a will-they-or-won't-they romance with the upstairs neighbor, neither of which move McEvoy along as a character (he's out of the army and the romance is one of those designed to keep the reader in suspense by taking two steps forward and one step back). And there's the usual challenge with a "light" detective novel where it's hard / impossible to kill off characters under the good guy's protection, which takes the edge off the suspense because we never really believe that the worst-case McEvoy is fretting about will occur.
Some good action sequences. The epitome of a three-star detective novel: nothing wrong with it, not world-shaking ... just a quick, easy read.
It leans a little too heavily on McEvoy's Irish Army experience and a will-they-or-won't-they romance with the upstairs neighbor, neither of which move McEvoy along as a character (he's out of the army and the romance is one of those designed to keep the reader in suspense by taking two steps forward and one step back). And there's the usual challenge with a "light" detective novel where it's hard / impossible to kill off characters under the good guy's protection, which takes the edge off the suspense because we never really believe that the worst-case McEvoy is fretting about will occur.
Some good action sequences. The epitome of a three-star detective novel: nothing wrong with it, not world-shaking ... just a quick, easy read.
March 25, 2019
Danial McEvoy is back and he’s brought all his friends with him! Irish Mike, that underachieving Don with his fake Irish brogue. Sophia, the love of his life. Their chaste relationship seems to be moving in the right direction, if only she’ll stay on the lithium and quit confusing Dan with her absentee abusive husband. And don’t forget Zebulon Cromski, our hero’s ‘best’ friend and proprietor of the most reasonably priced Botox injecting business in Cloisters New Jersey, he makes house calls too! Great to see Zeb in person and not just as a little nagging voice in the back of Danial’s conscience-(see Plugged). Don’t think there won’t be some new characters too. You’re going to love Danial’s step-mother, who, it turns out is several years younger than Dan!
Toss in too many guns, killers, crooked cops, kidnappings, trunks full of money and body parts, snuff films, stupendous escapes, and an overdose of mayhem and you got the perfect formula for a couple hours of mindless escapism!
Ace
Toss in too many guns, killers, crooked cops, kidnappings, trunks full of money and body parts, snuff films, stupendous escapes, and an overdose of mayhem and you got the perfect formula for a couple hours of mindless escapism!
Ace
September 3, 2018
I never read the prequel to this book, but it really didn't matter. This was a hoot! I listened to this novel as an audio book, and the voice talent – John Keating – was superb. It's been a long time since I listened to/read a laugh-out-loud book, and this was one. The interplay between Dan McEvoy and his plastic surgeon buddy was particularly hilarious. This novel was described as a mix of the Coen Brothers and Carl Hiaasen, and that really does sum it up well. Why no 5-star rating? It did drag just a big at the end, and there was one major loose end – McEvoy's aunt – that was not handled very well at all. I think the latter was trying to set up a sequel, which I will gladly rear. In fact, I just got a copy of the previous book in this series – Plugged – and I'm going to start that now. Definitely recommended!
March 15, 2017
Hadn't read the other one so I'm new to Dan's superb interior monologue, which was (consequently?) by far the best thing about this book for me. To be honest, I felt the 'hilariousness' getting a bit old by the end, but it is genuinely laugh-out-loud funny on pretty much every page, which is probably reason enough for anyone to read it. Anyone with a dark sense of humour, I should probably say. It's also pretty grisly.
It does more-or-less stand alone, but there's one spoilerific sentence that catches you up on one particular sub-plot, which by itself managed to make me wish I'd (for once!) bothered to read the first one first. Also, from what other people are saying, it's better. So, I think you know what you need to do...
It does more-or-less stand alone, but there's one spoilerific sentence that catches you up on one particular sub-plot, which by itself managed to make me wish I'd (for once!) bothered to read the first one first. Also, from what other people are saying, it's better. So, I think you know what you need to do...
November 27, 2017
I know the first one was meant to be funny, but I found it more just "light." This second one takes a turn into the zany madcap. On multiple occasions I found myself wondering if Dan was dreaming, but he wasn't. The zaniness makes for a pretty engaging plot, though, and it's combined with heavy domestic-abuse themes in the present and in flashbacks. An odd and sometimes nerve-wracking read, but I'm still sad there aren't more of these. They're different from other thrillers, not to mention Colfer's other work, and that would keep me coming back.
The audiobook narrator, John Keating, also does a great job -- he's one of my favorites and has read several audiobooks. He does a variety of Irish accents, among others as needed, and completely sells me on the reality of each character.
The audiobook narrator, John Keating, also does a great job -- he's one of my favorites and has read several audiobooks. He does a variety of Irish accents, among others as needed, and completely sells me on the reality of each character.
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