The Pope of Palm Beach: A Novel (Serge Storms)

This is the newest adventures of America's favorite serial killer. In the beginning I wondered if this might have been a autobiographical fictional historical account of Tim Dorsey.

The Pope is a great role model for the people of Riviera Beach, Florida.
(Personally I first heard of Riviera Beach, is when Anthony Carter played for Michigan, and was from Riviera Beach)
I am always impressed with the local history that Tim Dorsey shares in his novels. This story is much the same as most of the Serge book, but the side story of The Pope & Kenny, gives a fresh addition to the over all organ.
I see nothing negative about this novel but it is all good.
As for this review, This review is poorly written and it is boring. I give this review 2 stars

More great stuff from Dorsey. Serge is the ultimate good guy/bad guy using his evilpowers to protect everything from the environment to a crazed author. Makes you wonder who some of these characters are based on.....

This is my 21st review in this series. This book, as usual, is a superb read by the best American author of the comical crime/adventure novel. The plot, like the hero Serge, is convoluted, full of twists and turns, a historical trip through Florida sites and loaded with laugh out loud scenarios. Hiassen has met his challenger and lost the battle! Want number 22 ASAP!

Read every book he’s written and give the others a 5. His thing is he only kills those you want killed and the innocent are free. Here the innocent are mowed down. And it just doesn’t have the movement of the others. For the first time I got bored and fast forwarded.

Thought it would be good. My first Serge book and my last. Too childish good for a ten year old. Couldn't wait to get to end. It was boring picked up three quarters way thru but still couldn't do it for me.

After 19 years and 21 novels, Tim Dorsey shows absolutely no signs of slowing down. And, when it comes to "The Pope of Palm Beach", the same can be said for his protagonists, Serge and Coleman.

As always, Serge and Coleman's hilarious misadventures will entertain both new readers and already existing fans of the series. As a member of the latter group, I've long given up trying to rank their antics on a novel vs. novel basis. The best I can do as an "official" the store reviewer is rate the novels on how interesting the subplots - and new characters involved therein - are. With the advent of Darby & Kenny in "The Pope of Palm Beach," Mr. Dorsey has created one of his best, most compelling subplots to date. The duo's decades-long friendship is so brilliantly crafted that I found myself wishing for a spin-off novel about just the two of them.

Of course, the stars of the show are still Serge and Coleman. And, as stated above, they certainly do not disappoint in this outing. Without giving too much away, the off-the-beaten-path locations they visit (Serge is on a literary tour of Florida this time out) are interesting; the villains are well-deserving of Serge's patented-brand of 'educational justice;' and Serge's 'master plan' in the second half of the novel is as bold as it is zany (If you've ever gone to one of Mr. Dorsey's book-signings, you'll understand what I mean). As an added treat, "The Pope" turns back the hands of time for some hilarious tales of Serge's childhood. There's even a 'blink-and-you'll-miss-it' cameo of one of series' funniest supporting cast members.

For those of you who have been curious about this series, but might be intimidated by fact there are 20 previous entries, "The Pope of Palm Beach" is the perfect introductory book (i.e. "gateway novel") to the madcap world of Serge and Coleman. It is a stand-alone novel that requires no prior knowledge of the previous books to enjoy. However, after finishing "The Pope," you should be warned that you'll have an uncontrollable urge to run to your local bookstore. . . I mean, hop onto the store's website (sorry, Mr. Bezos) . . . and buy the previous 20 novels. (You'll also have an uncontrollable desire to visit Florida, so you might as well start socking away money into the vacation fund now.)

Lastly, if you're a fan of the audio books, Oliver Wyman's voice work is (once again) outstanding. My only complaint is that I cannot get him singing "The Mean High Tide" song out of my head.

Hope this review helps.

A senseless murder committed by a gang of smugglers against a local beloved hero leads to his best friend stepping into his legacy as he writes novels and becomes famous. Serge and sidekick Coleman get involved in the mystery and must follow their instincts and wit in helping to find a successful ending while travelling throughout the area where they spent their childhood. While terrorizing the treasure coast!!

Its good to read about Serge's early life. As with all of Dorsey's books, this one was very entertaining. Actually had a beginning and ending. If you have lived in Florida for any length of time and been around the state, you will enjoy these stories and feel a sense of relationship.

Another lovable romp with the usual inventive murders of the deserving, Florida history and great laughs. You don't put it down unless you pass out.

If you haven't read any of Tim's books, start now. Pick any of them. This ones as good a place as any but I'd find it hard to pick any to avoid.

PS: Never skip to the end.

Just finished book. I have read all , or almost all of Tim’s 21 books. I Laughed out loud several times with this one. I learned a few new things about Florida as usual and now have some older books and authors I think I need to read soon. That is good because I often end one of his books thinking, gosh it will be almost a year before there is another new one out! I dragged out reading the last several pages as much as I could before it was all over with. That is always a good sign with me. Keep it going Tim.
Thanks.

Perhaps Tim Dorsey's best, most tightly-woven madcap Serge-and-Coleman adventure to date. Now we know why Dorsey still tirelessly works the book signing circuit this far into this career; he's mining for new material. Check his book tour schedule and be sure to bring the karaoke machine!

‘The Pope of Palm Beach’ is another great Serge Storms novel. While it felt a bit lighter than normal on time with Serge, it still packs a ton of fun. From Florida trivia to creative games and ‘bonus rounds’ this book is non-stop hilarity from start to finish. If you love this series you’ll love this book as well.

I have read all dorseys books. the first five were the best. This, in my opinion is the weakest link. the only good thing is we hear about serges early childhood. Not enough killings and not enough serge and coleman. Much as I love these characters the series may be played out. I think I will re read Hammerhead Ranch Motel and Triggerfish Twist. Those were amazing. But at the same time, if dorsey writes more about serge and coleman I will still read. I miss Serge's sexual romps with librarians and his stripper ex wife Sharon. Also, coleman, the ultimate burnout is now only smoking marijuana. He used to do blow and pop pills too. I know it is not politically correct but I want the real coleman back. Also, I like it when Serge goes to a shrink, gets his meds and quits taking them and gets manic.

A Dorsey fan from the beginning,I found this latest to be one of the best rides yet with our friends Serge & Coleman. Fast paced,wickedly funny & totally plausible.Told with the true chops of the seasoned journalist that is Tim Dorsey. As a landlocked frostbitten Iowan I’m thrilled for a chance to escape to the wilds of Florida one more time. A must for Dorsey fans. If you’re not, Pope of Palm Beach will make you one.

Akin to a generic sitcom. surprised so many loved it. I guess that's why terrible sitcoms still do well. I have no problem with over the top characters but at least want a semblance of a story or a little logic. Only recommend for those who like moronic ridiculous entertainment.

Another so-so offering from Dorsey. Readable but not much zip. I miss the old Serge when he was on the run. There just isn't much tension in Dorsey's later books. Serge and Coleman just ease along from one adventure to another with no hindrance or worry. As has become usual the last few books this one was pretty bland. Not a train wreck but just okay is about it.