Testimonials

"I picked up this lovely paperback, drawn by its evocative cover. I was rewarded with a fabulous, well written, gripping tale. I can't wait for more Detective Toussaint. He is a character with a back story worthy of Henning Mankel or Michael Connelly, and one feels the development is just beginning. There are in fact several interesting characters whose stories I want to know more about. The Portland locale adds a piquant layer with political and social implications; but this fine novel could be enjoyed on so many levels that that intrigue is just icing."
- Bobby Tichenor, proprietor, Annie Bloom’s Books, Portland

"Although the book starts out a little slowly, it is worth hanging on until it picks up: love the Portland setting, characters are well-rounded and real, it is somewhat philosophical, but not preachy, intertwining plots keep the reader interested. I am looking forward to more Toussaint mysteries!"
- Michael J. Gibson, Amazon.com

"Portland Detective Story Shows Promise: This police procedural, set in Portland, Ore. features Detective Sergeant Matthew Toussaint and a cast of characters ranging from homeless drifters to corporate grifters. It is long on character development, plotting, and atmosphere. But the author, a retired high school English teacher, clearly loves the power of story and invokes everything from Greek tragedy to American doggerel as he weaves this tale of murder, corruption, and family dysfunction. Curley has talent for creating atmosphere and developing characters. I'd welcome seeing him develop this first book into a series."
– Barbara McMichael, Kitsap Sun

"Raggedy Man is a classic page turner, in the top quality of fiction I’ve read in recent years, incorporating excellent character development, an exciting plot, and important social and philosophical issues."
- Mike Abrams, Custer, Washington

"As a murder mystery, Raggedy Man is writing that is refreshing and inspiring. Clyde Curley really knows how to turn a phrase and breathe life into a great story."
- Laura Light, Charlottesville, Virginia

"Clyde Curley’s first novel is a detective story with a pedigree of Coleridge and Wordsworth, chock-full of compelling characters, where the forces of progress and development fight the forces of preservation and sustainability in the streets of Portland and in back room dealings. It’s a fast-paced Promethean tale that will leave you wanting more."
- Roland Nikles, San Francisco, California

"Clyde Curley creates a wonderful sense of place about a wonderful place, Portland, Oregon. The reader quickly becomes engaged by the cast of colorful, multi-dimensional characters and twists and turns of the plot of a mystery with a larger message."
- Susan Songer, Portland, Oregon

"Raggedy Man is a complex, thought-provoking mystery with characters you care about. Fans of Elizabeth George will want to follow detective Toussaint."
- Sara Stamey, Bellingham, Washington (author of Islands)

"Raggedy Man, with its memorable cast of characters, labyrinthine plot, and ‘dripping’ Northwest atmosphere is the perfect companion for a long, rainy Portland afternoon."
- Paul Kotapish, Alameda, California

"I’m ready for my next Detective Toussaint novel."
- David Cahn, Seattle, Washington