Ben Litvinoff

"I thought I knew this city's history, but this book showed me a side I never knew existed. It's not just about the mob; it's about the everyday people living in the shadow of the neon. The story about the witness to the casino mogul's murder has stuck with me. It reads like a conversation with a knowledgeable old-timer, full of insights you won't find in any tourist guide."

Our entire group was captivated. We spent more time discussing the ethical dilemma of the author knowing so many secrets than we did on the plot! It's a book that makes you think about trust and the hidden roles people play in our lives. The writing is so straightforward and honest, it feels like you're right there in the salon with him, listening in.

I picked this up for the mob stories, which are delivered perfectly, but I was surprised by how much the human moments hit me. The story of the woman who lost her entire family and her unshakable faith was incredibly powerful. It's not all guns and gangsters; it's a deeply human look at a city that's often portrayed as heartless.

I loved the pacing. You can read one story before bed and feel completely satisfied, but you'll probably end up reading three because they're so gripping. The short chapters and the little poems sprinkled throughout give you a moment to breathe and reflect on the gravity of what you just read. It's a beautifully structured memoir.

This is oral history at its best. The author doesn't just tell you what happened; he makes you feel the texture of old Las Vegas. The behind-the-scenes glimpses of legends like Liberace and the inner workings of the casinos are priceless. It feels authentic, not like a sensationalized tell-all. A vital record of a vanishing era.

I'm not from Vegas and don't usually read true crime, but I was completely drawn in. The author's voice is so warm and compelling. He doesn't judge his clients; he just tells their stories with compassion and a little wit. It's a book about secrets, but it's also a book about kindness and the strange connections we make in life.