Title: The Riptide Ultra-Glide
Author: Tim Dorsey
First published January 22, 2013
294 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9780062092786 (ISBN10: 0062092782)
Rating: 3.89
Overview
Hold on tight for a wild ride with Florida’s favorite psychopath and tour guide, Serge Storms! When a couple of down-on-their-luck Midwesterners find themselves stranded in the seedy underbelly of Florida, they’re in for a ride they’ll never forget. After being robbed of everything they own, including their IDs, they turn to Serge for help.
With his signature blend of big-hearted insanity and local Floridian know-how, Serge takes it upon himself to show these tourists a good time in the Sunshine State. But when things take a turn for the worse, Serge must use all of his wits and courage to take down the evildoers and restore the good name of Florida.
Packed with laughs, thrills, and plenty of fruity umbrella drinks, The Riptide Ultra-Glide is a must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure. So come on down to paradise and let Serge show you the ropes!
About the Author
Tim Dorsey is an accomplished author who has made his mark in the literary world. He was born in Indiana and then moved to Florida when he was only one year old.
His childhood was spent in Riviera Beach, a small town located an hour north of Miami. In 1983, Tim graduated from Auburn University where he served as the editor of the student newspaper called The Plainsman.
After graduation, he worked as a police and courts reporter at The Alabama Journal for four years. Following that, he joined The Tampa Tribune in 1987 as a general assignment reporter.
There, he covered a variety of news topics and also worked as a political reporter in the Tallahassee bureau. Tim also served as a copy desk editor and eventually became the night metro editor from 1994 to 1999.
Tim decided to leave The Tampa Tribune in August 1999 to pursue his passion for writing full time. Since then, he has authored several books and has gained a loyal following of readers who appreciate his unique style of storytelling.
Editoral Review
Tim Dorseys The Riptide Ultra-Glide is a satirical crime-comedy novel that blends humor, suspense, and social commentary. Published on January 22, 2013, Dorseys book is his sixteenth in the series starring his manic protagonist, Serge A.
Storms, who is always up for an adventure in Floridas tropical paradise.
The Riptide Ultra-Glide follows Serges wild journey with his friend, Coleman, as they embark on an unusual quest to find a stolen pornographic video.
Their journey takes them to different parts of the state where they encounter a bevy of quirky characters, from a mentally unstable millionaire to a cross-dressing drug smuggler. Along the way, they must dodge the police, hitmen, and their own inner demons.
Dorseys signature blend of violence, comedy, and social criticism is on full display in The Riptide Ultra-Glide. The book is a love letter to Florida, highlighting its natural beauty, its quirky inhabitants, and its bizarre history.
Dorseys characters are colorful and eccentric, and their unpredictable behavior keeps readers guessing about what will happen next.
The books central theme is the commodification of sex and the dangers that come with it.
Dorsey uses Serges and Colemans journey to expose the sleazy underbelly of the porn industry and the sinister individuals who profit from it. Dorseys larger social critique is about the erosion of morality and decency in a culture that values profit above all else.
The writing in The Riptide Ultra-Glide is sharp and witty, and Dorseys descriptions of Floridas scenery are vivid and evocative. The book has a fast pace, and the action never slows down.
The dialogue is snappy, and the characters are well-drawn, with distinct personalities and backstories.
However, the books humor may not be for everyone.
The jokes can be crude and offensive, and some readers may find them juvenile or tasteless. The book also lacks a clear resolution, and some may find the ending unsatisfying.
Despite its flaws, The Riptide Ultra-Glide is a darkly entertaining book that offers a fresh take on the crime genre. Fans of Carl Hiaasen and Elmore Leonard will enjoy Dorseys irreverent humor and keen observation of Florida life.
The book is a fun, lighthearted read, perfect for those who want to escape into a sunny, tropical world of crime and tomfoolery.
Rating: 4/5