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(Available from www.booksontape.com) Seven years earlier, when he was a struggling graduate student, Josh Redmont started receiving a check for $1000 each month. He sort of made a halfhearted attempt to try and trace why "United States Agents" was paying him $12,000 a year for doing nothing, but he decided that it was easier to keep the money, which he needed desperately. Even now, the $1000 is a nice monthly lagniappe, which helps keep his son in diapers and toys. One day, while waiting for the ferry to Fire Island, a man approaches Josh and whispers in his ear. "I am from United States Agents. You are now active" This sets us off on a typical Westlake romp of highly illogical happenings. It turns out that "United States Agents" think he is a sleeper who supports their cause, which has something to do with one of the republics of the former Soviet Union. With his family threatened, he does as he is told, and allows agents to use his home as a safe house on the weekends when he is with his wife. As the problems escalate, and a beautiful woman moves in to his apartment, he finally confides in his wife, and he seeks out another "agent" who is now an actor. Together they work to sabotage the plot and save the free world. MONEY FOR NOTHING is a typical Donald Westlake over-the-top plot. Needless to say, the forces of good overcome the forces of evil, but Josh's wife has the last word. I really forgot I was listening to a Westlake book and began to take the story seriously while I was listening to Michael Kramer's narration. This might be a good choice for a round trip drive between New York and Washington, for example, as it only runs about 7 1/2 hours. Note: The library edition of this book sells for $64.00 and is also available for 30 day rental.
Reviewed by Barbara Franchi, May 2003
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Contact: Yvonne Klein (ymk@reviewingtheevidence.com)
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