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Skunks Dance
Spivey Spillane's grandmammy always said there were only two good reasons to kill a man -- for cheating on a woman, and for serving drinks to a Yankee. She may have had a hand in winning the Revolutionary War, but even she never met the likes of Alabama Sam. Sam robs a bank under Spillane's name, casts him in an obscene one-man play wearing only a pink tutu, and starts a betting pool on how many wieners he has. Despite the indignities Spillane suffers, he chases Sam across Gold-Rush-era California because Sam is the only one who knows the location of a hidden fortune buried somewhere in the hills.
Meanwhile in the present, seventeen-year-olds Amanda and Jet have rekindled an old childhood rivalry. Amanda is obsessed with finding the treasure of her infamous ancestor Spivey Spillane. Jet and Amanda's feud comes to a head over an extended incident involving a broken window, an exploded car, and a charge of sexual assault with a candy Batman. Jet vows that he is going to find to Spillane's gold before Amanda does, but it doesn't take them long to realize that someone may have come this way already -- someone who wants the past to stay buried.
Inspired by the rickety world of 1960s British-made Westerns, SKUNKS DANCE is a tale of revenge, greed, and men in tutus.
Meanwhile in the present, seventeen-year-olds Amanda and Jet have rekindled an old childhood rivalry. Amanda is obsessed with finding the treasure of her infamous ancestor Spivey Spillane. Jet and Amanda's feud comes to a head over an extended incident involving a broken window, an exploded car, and a charge of sexual assault with a candy Batman. Jet vows that he is going to find to Spillane's gold before Amanda does, but it doesn't take them long to realize that someone may have come this way already -- someone who wants the past to stay buried.
Inspired by the rickety world of 1960s British-made Westerns, SKUNKS DANCE is a tale of revenge, greed, and men in tutus.
- GenresFiction
272 pages, Hardcover
Published January 24, 2017
369 people want to read
About the author
St. John Karp
6 books32 followersI am a writer, historian, and ornamental hermit. I enjoy living close to things so I can not go to them, and I spend my time pining for my old age when I can shout at kids to get off my lawn.
I love books that are bizarre and exciting and ridiculous. There's something so liberating about a book that makes you want to run up to the nearest person and describe the amazing thoughts that have just been put in your head. I love the authors so much who've done that for me, and the most I can hope for is to do that for someone else.
If I could travel back in time to any point in history, it would be the 1920s. The first question I'd ask is for directions to the nearest speakeasy.
I love books that are bizarre and exciting and ridiculous. There's something so liberating about a book that makes you want to run up to the nearest person and describe the amazing thoughts that have just been put in your head. I love the authors so much who've done that for me, and the most I can hope for is to do that for someone else.
If I could travel back in time to any point in history, it would be the 1920s. The first question I'd ask is for directions to the nearest speakeasy.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 19, 2016
Skunks Dance turned out to be so much more than I expected it to be. Yes, I was interested in this book from the get-go, but I wasn’t doing a crazy dance as I sometimes do after reading a synopsis. After all, whilst it sounded like a lot of fun I wasn’t quite sure what I was getting into.
It turns out I was getting myself into a truly addicting story. In alternating chapters, we follow two stories. One is that of Spivey Spillane and the trouble he finds himself mixed up in due to Alabama Sam in the time of the Gold Rush era. The other story is that of Jet and Amanda and their rivalry in the modern day world. I cannot say which of the two stories I found to be more addicting, as both really pulled me in. Both stories were made up of strong characters, drastic events, and highly entertaining moments. Throughout it all, the two stories were intricately connected, the link between the two making for one highly entertaining read.
The story of Spivey Spillane is a fun look at the Old West, offering us more than what the usual books in the genre do. Usually when we’re given books of the Old West, it is simple shootouts that make up most of the story telling. Whilst we are chasing down a bad guy, trying to bring justice to the world, the main focus is upon the events that comes about through this. A lot of entertainment comes about from Spivey Spillane finding himself in far from ideal situations – accused of robbing a bank, forced into the only role of a play, and generally finding himself drawing the attention of the sheriff and townsfolk. Throughout it all, we have a number of questions, and whilst some answers are obvious, it’s a lot of fun as we slowly come to understand the situation better.
The story of Jet and Amanda is vastly different. It’s a look at teenage life, mixed in with the mystery of the past. Our two characters are butting heads for most of the story, yet they come to work together to try and find the gold of Spivey Spillane. As with the story of Spivey, our present day story is filled with entertaining moments. Mostly, these entertaining moments come from the crazy that is Jet’s family. Mixed in with all of the amusement, the mystery of the past slowly grows to larger proportions before coming together in an unexpected manner.
I will say, however, that the modern side of the story falls prey to the usual young adult slip. It is very much a representation of this moment in time, the current trends and hypes. It’s always wonderful to see references to popular culture, but in a couple of years the references won’t mean the same thing that they do today. Such a thing always saddens me when a book is really fun, as I feel as though it is giving the book an expiration date. Nevertheless, the story telling was wonderful.
I had so much fun with this one. Honestly, I cannot begin to explain how enjoyable this one was, not without giving away spoilers – something I refuse to do. Thus, the only thing you can do is give this one a read yourself.
As a final note, I would like to thank the publisher for contacting me for a review: I really enjoyed this one, and cannot wait to see what else the author has to offer.
It turns out I was getting myself into a truly addicting story. In alternating chapters, we follow two stories. One is that of Spivey Spillane and the trouble he finds himself mixed up in due to Alabama Sam in the time of the Gold Rush era. The other story is that of Jet and Amanda and their rivalry in the modern day world. I cannot say which of the two stories I found to be more addicting, as both really pulled me in. Both stories were made up of strong characters, drastic events, and highly entertaining moments. Throughout it all, the two stories were intricately connected, the link between the two making for one highly entertaining read.
The story of Spivey Spillane is a fun look at the Old West, offering us more than what the usual books in the genre do. Usually when we’re given books of the Old West, it is simple shootouts that make up most of the story telling. Whilst we are chasing down a bad guy, trying to bring justice to the world, the main focus is upon the events that comes about through this. A lot of entertainment comes about from Spivey Spillane finding himself in far from ideal situations – accused of robbing a bank, forced into the only role of a play, and generally finding himself drawing the attention of the sheriff and townsfolk. Throughout it all, we have a number of questions, and whilst some answers are obvious, it’s a lot of fun as we slowly come to understand the situation better.
The story of Jet and Amanda is vastly different. It’s a look at teenage life, mixed in with the mystery of the past. Our two characters are butting heads for most of the story, yet they come to work together to try and find the gold of Spivey Spillane. As with the story of Spivey, our present day story is filled with entertaining moments. Mostly, these entertaining moments come from the crazy that is Jet’s family. Mixed in with all of the amusement, the mystery of the past slowly grows to larger proportions before coming together in an unexpected manner.
I will say, however, that the modern side of the story falls prey to the usual young adult slip. It is very much a representation of this moment in time, the current trends and hypes. It’s always wonderful to see references to popular culture, but in a couple of years the references won’t mean the same thing that they do today. Such a thing always saddens me when a book is really fun, as I feel as though it is giving the book an expiration date. Nevertheless, the story telling was wonderful.
I had so much fun with this one. Honestly, I cannot begin to explain how enjoyable this one was, not without giving away spoilers – something I refuse to do. Thus, the only thing you can do is give this one a read yourself.
As a final note, I would like to thank the publisher for contacting me for a review: I really enjoyed this one, and cannot wait to see what else the author has to offer.
March 13, 2017
This was a super fun romp through the Gold Rush old west and the present day. Really hilarious and a great page-turner. Highly recommended!
December 16, 2018
Ridiculous, audacious, fun, naughty, crazy, entertaining, and an absolute joy to read.
August 4, 2023
Dnf. This book reads like it was written by someone whose only familiarity with humans is from American TV shows.
June 6, 2024
really fun-
Funny, exciting characters, the plot is not super accessible. I laughed out loud in some of the scenes. Recommend for fun.
Funny, exciting characters, the plot is not super accessible. I laughed out loud in some of the scenes. Recommend for fun.
February 20, 2017
Some books are lovely square pegs. They aren't exactly one thing or the other. Square pegs never fit into round holes, but they leave an impact on our lives. Skunks Dance as a novel is a square peg. For that reason I enjoyed it a lot.
Skunks Dance is a Wild West romp. It's also an adventurous mystery and a screwball comedy. The narration alternates between a suspenseful, absurd past and an equally absurd but more dangerous future. Spivey Spillane in the Wild West finds himself impersonated and conned by a trickster named Alabama Sam, who seems to be immortal.
In the present, Amanda Spillane and Jet Ashwood have a bitter rivalry. They graduate from tossing rocks to stealing priceless comics. Then Jet goes too far by burning down Amanda's car; instead of continuing the game, she recruits him to help find her family treasure. Jet isn't that thrilled, but the other option is to go to jail for successful arson. He hopes that he can find the treasure and recoup the value of the vintage comic book Amanda stole from him. Jet's sister Gina insists on getting involved, for the adventure and to help her brother.
The teens quickly get in over their head, however. When they find a dead body instead of gold, the stakes get higher. Someone else in town wants that treasure, and to keep Amanda's mouth shut. In the past, Alabama Sam makes it clear he has it out for Spivey, and will torment him for every living moment. Spivey has to figure out how to get rid of this demon trickster, or go to the gallows trying.
I love how this story never loses its humor. Despite all the chaos that ensues, St. John Karp focuses on entertaining the audience and building a story. I greatly enjoyed the ride, and was honored to get an advanced copy of the tale. I hope that Amanda, Jet and Gina have more adventures, since they drove the story with gusto.
Skunks Dance is a Wild West romp. It's also an adventurous mystery and a screwball comedy. The narration alternates between a suspenseful, absurd past and an equally absurd but more dangerous future. Spivey Spillane in the Wild West finds himself impersonated and conned by a trickster named Alabama Sam, who seems to be immortal.
In the present, Amanda Spillane and Jet Ashwood have a bitter rivalry. They graduate from tossing rocks to stealing priceless comics. Then Jet goes too far by burning down Amanda's car; instead of continuing the game, she recruits him to help find her family treasure. Jet isn't that thrilled, but the other option is to go to jail for successful arson. He hopes that he can find the treasure and recoup the value of the vintage comic book Amanda stole from him. Jet's sister Gina insists on getting involved, for the adventure and to help her brother.
The teens quickly get in over their head, however. When they find a dead body instead of gold, the stakes get higher. Someone else in town wants that treasure, and to keep Amanda's mouth shut. In the past, Alabama Sam makes it clear he has it out for Spivey, and will torment him for every living moment. Spivey has to figure out how to get rid of this demon trickster, or go to the gallows trying.
I love how this story never loses its humor. Despite all the chaos that ensues, St. John Karp focuses on entertaining the audience and building a story. I greatly enjoyed the ride, and was honored to get an advanced copy of the tale. I hope that Amanda, Jet and Gina have more adventures, since they drove the story with gusto.
October 2, 2016
An excellent palate cleanser after slogging through "War and Peace," this is a great romp through the Old West and teenage experience and family life.
As a friend of St John, I've had the privilege to read several crafts of this book. I've seen the characters grow into real people, the settings smooth out into both past and "present", and pretty much all of the egregious grammar errors get corrected. I'm excited to see what others think when it officially hits the shelves!
As a friend of St John, I've had the privilege to read several crafts of this book. I've seen the characters grow into real people, the settings smooth out into both past and "present", and pretty much all of the egregious grammar errors get corrected. I'm excited to see what others think when it officially hits the shelves!
March 17, 2020
What a fun book! I love the elements of adventure and the unusual characters. The chapters alternate between the American Old West and present day, with many cliffhangers along the way. I always look for interesting women in my reading, so I was happy to follow Jackie in the Old West and Amanda in the present. The story keeps you on your toes, with many twists and an abundance of entertaining dialogue.
February 15, 2017
Not your typical YA novel! Two tales that intertwine, one in the Old West and one with current day teens, told via alternating chapters. A WhoDunIt laced with humor and flamboyant characters! Loved the prose ... very dynamic. And the layers of subtleties will make me want to reread it in the future. Really enjoyed! 4.5 star!
January 19, 2017
Two well written, entertaining storylines set in different era’s with eccentric characters and at times hilarious dialog. Karp’s book has all the ingredients for a good road movie. A very enjoyable read.
January 24, 2017
If you enjoy unusual, quirky YA novels, this is for you. The humor throughout the novel is entertaining, and the often bizarre circumstances the characters find themselves in will keep the reader engaged from start to finish.
January 26, 2017
Looking for a quirky, fun book? Look no further than Skunks Dance. This isn't your typical YA read, and that's what I adore about this book! St John Karp has a wonderfully offbeat sense of humor and fills the pages with colorful characters who find themselves in unusual situations.
October 3, 2016
Charming, delightful, silly and fun!
February 9, 2017
LOVE this book! It's such a fun YA mystery/adventure set in the Wild West. Definitely a fun read, especially if you like quirky humor.
April 11, 2017
A couple of teenage characters learning how to relate to other humans, an insanely good con man, and a supporting cast that includes acrobats, crooked cops, and burgeoning revolutionaries - this is my kind of tale. Add the gold country setting and a beautifully crafted back and forth between two fun plots had this page turner keeping me up past my bedtime.
April 15, 2017
This book comprises two plot lines, told in alternating chapters. One plot line (the times of the gold rush) introduces you to Spivey Spillane, hunting Alabama Sam who is pulling pranks in his name. The other plot line (now) introduces you to Jet and Amanda. Like her ancestor, Spivey Spillane, Amanda wants to find the treasure.
With Somewhere in the Skunks Dance, St John Carp has created a humorous mystery that left me with mixed feelings. I cannot say, that I cared a lot for Spivey's part of the story, it was too bizarre for my liking; despite that, this plot line had its moments. Jet, Amanda, and Gina's plot line often was pretty hilarious, sometimes a little bizarre as well. The relevant characters in the present plot line are of sufficient depth, and Jet's little sister Gina is a gem.
This is a book for you if you like bizarre suspense, two alternating plot lines; and if you like unusual stories.
With Somewhere in the Skunks Dance, St John Carp has created a humorous mystery that left me with mixed feelings. I cannot say, that I cared a lot for Spivey's part of the story, it was too bizarre for my liking; despite that, this plot line had its moments. Jet, Amanda, and Gina's plot line often was pretty hilarious, sometimes a little bizarre as well. The relevant characters in the present plot line are of sufficient depth, and Jet's little sister Gina is a gem.
This is a book for you if you like bizarre suspense, two alternating plot lines; and if you like unusual stories.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews