Few contemporary writers understand noir as well as Padura, and far fewer convey Cuba with such grit and sensuality.” Playboy
“Overlaid with a rich smoky patina, an atmosphere that reeks of slums and riches, cigar smoke and exotic perfumes. Havana Black is a strong tasting book, a rich feast of wit and feeling.” Independent
“Drenched with that beguiling otherness so appealing to fans of mysteries of other cultures, Havana Blue will also appeal to those who appreciate the sultry lyricism of James Lee Burke. “ Booklist
“…a magnificent Dickensian evocation of the city’s street hassle; it takes in drug dealers, hookers, people queuing for pizza, newly-weds, the hotels and baseball fans, and captures the enthralling gloom of dimly lit, apocalyptic early-evening Havana.’ Times Literary Supplement
“Havana Gold is a textured treat for those who like their detective fiction served long and lazy with a double shot of rum.” Financial Times
“Conde’s quest follows the basic rhythm of the whodunit, but Padura syncopates Havana Red with brilliant riffs on Cuban sex, society, religion, even food.” Independent
In this solid spin-off from Cuban author Pedro’s Havana Quartet, police detective Mario Conde investigates the 1989 murder of 73-year-old Pedro Cuang in Havana’s Chinatown. Fans of the Havana Quartet will welcome Conde’s return. Publishers Weekly
How nice it is to watch a high-powered talent at work on a form that too often relies on flat-footed prose. Booklist
Padura on his very best form. Once again, we have Padura’a irresistible combination of quirky storytelling and a vivid evocation of the city of Havana – Padura’s specialities, in fact. The translation by Peter Bush does full justice to the novel, which was inspired by the author’s work as a journalist when investigating the history of Havana’s Barrio Chino. ELN Barry Forshaw
“Grab a Snake by the Tail” is pitted with black humour, noir as the gods intended it to be. This intelligent and insightful crime novel is thoroughly intriguing. It will have you examining your own prejudices and assumptions. Conde is a compelling character and ultimately this is a very satisfying read. NB Magazine