A Masterclass in Retro Crime Fiction.
In 1950s Miami and New York City, ‘Fast Times, Big City’ unfolds as a mystery thriller with a classic noir vibe. Full of shady deals, colorful underworld figures, and a reluctant hero caught in the middle, it brings the gritty charm of old-school crime fiction to life.
What begins as a routine Saturday for Bud Palmer quickly snowballs into a high-stakes escapade he never asked for. Tasked with helping his reckless Uncle Rick out of yet another jam, Bud is soon entangled in a web of mob debts, shady poker games, and a mysteriously missing woman named Amy. The deeper he’s pulled into the chaos, the more his quiet life as a sportswriter slips away. When Escobar, a volatile Chicago mobster, demands action, Bud is pushed onto a train bound for New York—chasing a runaway, a stolen briefcase, and the answers that could save more than just Rick’s skin. Amid the escalating danger, Bud must summon instincts he didn’t know he had, navigating unfamiliar territory with equal parts skepticism, determination, and dry humor.
Shelly Frome’s writing is crisp, atmospheric, and laden with vintage charm. His use of setting—rainy Miami mornings, smoky hotel rooms, and bustling New York subways—brings the 1950s vividly to life. Frome masterfully builds a plot that starts small but widens into a thrilling chase, full of layered characters and clever twists. His dialogue is sharp and believable, especially in scenes involving Escobar and his slick sidekick Ed, who provide both menace and comic relief. The author’s ability to blend noir tropes with heartfelt family dynamics, making the story emotionally grounded while still thrilling, is particularly impressive.
‘Fast Times, Big City’ is highly recommended for fans of noir mysteries, retro crime capers, and character-driven storytelling. It’s the kind of book that starts like a slow jazz tune but crescendos into a pulse-pounding mystery. If you enjoy stories with reluctant heroes, shady deals, and a dash of mid-century glamour, Shelly Frome’s latest novel is a compelling and entertaining read that’s hard to put down. 5 Stars!
