Be Cool    by Elmore Leonard Order:  USA  Can HarperTorch, 2005 (1999) Softcover, Paperback, CD Read an Excerpt      Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth I have to admit that while I have not read all of Elmore Leonard's many books, I have read a number of them and enjoyed each one - as is the case with Be Cool. Leonard writes as though he is telling a story. Vocally. Not as printed prose. As a result, his words ring true to life. As though his characters are in the room speaking with the reader. Ex-mafioso, now Hollywood producer, Chili Palmer is having lunch with a former colleague, and witnesses the man's execution. Chili, seeking a story line for a new script, combines looking for the killer with watching how the search plays out. In essence, he is letting his script write itself by observing the continuing drama. Chili is a complex character, able to leave a life involved with crime to segue into the Hollywood scene. In so doing, he becomes involved with the record producing business. If a modicum of what Leonard writes of this huge business is true, it's a wonder anyone survives in it. Kill or be killed seems to be the norm. Be Cool is fast-paced, with enough action to suit the most avid action fan. The fast-talking characters are not the kind of people I have on my Christmas card list, but they work very well for a really intriguing plot line. Kudos for Elmore Leonard for keeping his standards high. A thoroughly enjoyable book. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews